Why is it in the news?

• Researchers from Kerala have reported a series of cases from Malappuram district linking the regular use of fairness creams to nephrotic syndrome.

About Nephrotic Syndrome

• Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder characterized by excessive protein loss in urine due to issues with the kidneys’ filtration system, specifically the glomeruli.
• In healthy kidneys, glomeruli filter waste and excess fluids while retaining essential cells and proteins.
• In nephrotic syndrome, inflamed glomeruli allow too much protein leakage, leading to symptoms such as severe swelling, foamy urine, high blood fat levels, weight gain, fatigue, and loss of appetite.
• Complications of nephrotic syndrome may include blood clots, increased infection risk, high blood pressure, and potential kidney issues such as chronic kidney disease or kidney failure.
• Treatment involves managing the underlying cause and addressing related concerns, including blood pressure control, cholesterol reduction, swelling mitigation, and infection prevention through medication and dietary adjustments.