Basic Definition of Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS)

Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis( FSGS) is mainly found among people between 20~40 years old and more common in male than female.

As FSGS has latent characteristics, it can not be detected easily. Clinically, about 3/ 4 of the patients have micro-hematuria and nearly 1/ 4 of patients have gross hematuria. Moreover, high blood pressure is a common symptom for patients with FSGS. In addition, some patients develop Nephrotic Syndrome.

FSGS includes primary FSGS and the secondary one. At present, the causes of primary FSGS is unknown. Secondary FSGS may be due to being born with less glomeruli than normal, for example, some people are born with only one kidney. In addition, a series of other factors such as infection, toxins, medicines and some chronic kidney diseases are important factors in causing FSGS. In addition, some researches show that the disease also can be inherited to the offspring, but this case is rare.

FSGS has the following implying meanings: 1. Segmental: it means that some glomeruli are sclerotic, but the left are normal. 2. Focal: for a glomerulus, only a part of the glomerulus has sclerosis. 3. FSGS is also characterized with renal tubular atrophy. Untreated, about 50~70% of patients will develop into Renal Failure.


The following article has introduced the basic information of FSGS. If you want to know more about the disease and its therapies, please consult us on line.