Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis

Abstract

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, FSGS, is a progressive glomerular disease of different ethiology that leads in almost 50 % of patients to end stage renal failure. FSGS is caused by damage of podocytes, histologically characterized by partial scarring of glomeruli, clinically by nephrotic-range proteinuria or nephrotic syndrome and unsatisfactory therapeutic response. Kidney transplantation in FSGS patients is associated with high risk of disease recurrence and worse long-term outcomes. Early treatment is essential for the patient’s prognosis, which varies between different forms of FSGS (primary, secondary, genetic).