Nephrotic Syndrome

Nephrotic syndrome is a condition marked by very high levels of protein in the urine (proteinuria); low levels of protein in the blood; swelling, especially around the eyes, feet, and hands; and high cholesterol. Nephrotic syndrome results from damage to the kidneys' glomeruli. Glomeruli are tiny blood vessels that filter waste and excess water from the blood and send them to the bladder as urine. In order to qualify a claimant must have nephrotic syndrome with significant anasarca which has been persistent for at least 3 months despite therapy.

For this condition to be severe enough to meet the Social Security Administration's listing the claimant must have:

• Serum albumin of 3 grams or less and proteinuria of at least 3.5 grams per 24 hours; OR
• Proteinuria of at least 10 grams per 24 hours.