Question Title: Focal Glomerular Nephrosclerosis

Is this the same disease? If not, where can I get the proper information. They live in a small town and don't have the most wonderful medical access, so I want to be sure he's getting the correct information and treatment.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear L. Hendrix,
Yes. Focal glomerular nephrosclerosis is the same entity as focal glomerulosclerosis, which may also be referred to as focal and segmental glomerular sclerosis. It is found in about 7 to 15 percent of children, and 15 to 20 percent of adults who develop idiopathic (unknown cause) nephrotic syndrome (a syndrome which results in loss of proteins through the urine which is a hallmark of this condition). It is thought that there may be a male preponderance, and that African Americans may be at increased risk of developing this disease and may have worse prognosis. The pathogenesis of this disorder is unknown, although it has been suggested to be possibly related to the immune system or an immune reaction. Spontaneous remission is rare, and treatment may be initiated with steroids, although the renal failure if severe enough will require dialysis and /or renal transplantation. The recurrence of the nephrotic syndrome and focal glomerulosclerosis in the transplanted kidney has been documented and may be as high as 40 percent.
Hope this information is useful to you and wish you the best.

This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition. More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its satellites (1 800 653 6568).

Sincerely,
HFHS M.D.-JJ
*Keyword: Focal Glomerulosclerosis