What complication can occur as a result of nephrotic syndrome related to blood viscosity?

Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by a group of clinical features that include significant proteinuria, hypoproteinemia, and edema. One of the complications that can arise from nephrotic syndrome is thromboembolism, which relates to changes in blood viscosity.

In nephrotic syndrome, the significant loss of proteins, particularly albumin, leads to a decrease in plasma oncotic pressure. This can result in decreased intravascular volume and trigger compensatory mechanisms that may elevate fibrinogen and other clotting factors in the blood. The loss of anticoagulant proteins such as antithrombin III further predisposes patients to a hypercoagulable state. These alterations in blood composition increase the viscosity of blood, which, combined with sluggish flow due to low albumin levels and increased clotting factors, raises the risk for thrombus formation within the vascular system. This means that the blood becomes more prone to forming clots, leading to complications such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.

Understanding the development of thromboembolism in nephrotic syndrome is crucial for clinical management, as it informs both monitoring and preventive strategies for at-risk patients. Thus, the association of nephrotic syndrome with increased blood viscosity and the resultant