Which is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in children?

Minimal Change Disease is the most prevalent cause of nephrotic syndrome in children, accounting for approximately 80-90% of cases in this population. This condition is characterized by significant proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and edema, resulting from damage to the glomerular filtration barrier. The exact cause of Minimal Change Disease is not well understood, but it is thought to involve a dysregulation of T-cell function, leading to the release of cytokines that affect the podocytes—the cells that line the glomeruli.

In children, Minimal Change Disease typically presents with sudden onset of nephrotic syndrome symptoms, and it often responds well to corticosteroid therapy. The favorable response to steroids helps differentiate it from other causes of nephrotic syndrome, which may present similarly but are more challenging to treat.

The other options represent conditions that are less common in the pediatric population. Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis, while it can occur in children, is not as prevalent as Minimal Change Disease in this age group. Diabetic Nephropathy and Membranous Nephropathy are more commonly seen in adults and are associated with other underlying health issues. Therefore, the prominence of Minimal Change Disease makes it the most frequent diagnosis linked to