nephrotic syndrome

Question
My neice went out on flight for life 2 days ago. Her symptoms were high protein in the blood and in the urine, also elevated RBC and hemoglobin. They did a cat scat and her whole insides was filled with fluid including lungs filling up. She is 9 yrs old and the kidney doctor in Denver, Co is saying she has nephrotic syndrome, but everything I have read says this shows low levels of protein in the blood. I feel he has mis diagnosed her, what are your believes? Im thinking more like amyloidosis but im not a doc, also in order to get nephrotic syn. doesnt there have to be another underlying disease inorder to damage the kidneys? She had about 20lbs of extra water on her. she complained of a stomachache but was still playing. She vomitted quite frequently, but only had all these symptoms for 3 days.  Thank you


Answer
Hi Jamie,



Thanks for your question on "Allexperts".



Without a careful history and physical, I am unable to diagnose your niece's condition. However, I tend to agree with your local nephrologist's opinion. A child with extra fluid and protein and RBCs in urine warrants a workup for the nephrotic syndrome.



Primary nephrotic syndrome (without underlying cause) is the rule rather than exception in children.



Sincerely,



Dr. Shah