DISEASES
description
Primary membranous nephropathy (pMN) is a kidney-specific, autoimmune glomerular disease that presents with increased protein in the urine associated with a pathognomonic pattern of injury in the foot processes of the glomerulus. PMN develops gradually, so patients may not suspect that anything is wrong. As protein is lost from the blood it can cause swelling of the ankles and legs along with unexplained weight gain. Since a number of other conditions can also be associated with high protein in the urine, it is important to make an accurate diagnosis by kidney biopsy supported by serological markers anti-phospholipase 2 receptor (PLA2R) and anti-thrombospondin 7.
Symptoms
- Swelling in the legs and ankles
- Weight gain
- Fatigue
- Poor appetite
- Urine that looks foamy
- High cholesterol
- Increased protein in the urine (proteinuria)
- Decreased protein in the blood, particularly albumin