All are true for nephrotic syndrome except:March 2012
**Core Concept**
Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by a triad of heavy proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and edema. It results from damage to the glomerular filtration barrier, leading to loss of large amounts of albumin in the urine.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Nephrotic syndrome is associated with hyperlipidemia, which is a result of increased hepatic production of lipids in response to hypoalbuminemia. The liver produces more lipids to maintain oncotic pressure, leading to elevated levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. Additionally, nephrotic syndrome is often associated with secondary infections, such as peritonitis or pneumonia, due to impaired immune function.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Nephrotic syndrome is not typically associated with hypertension, although some patients may develop hypertension due to hyperlipidemia or secondary causes such as renal artery stenosis.
* **Option B:** Hyperglycemia is not a direct consequence of nephrotic syndrome, although some patients may develop diabetes mellitus due to secondary causes such as obesity or family history.
* **Option C:** Hyperkalemia is not a characteristic feature of nephrotic syndrome, although some patients may develop hypokalemia due to secondary causes such as diuretic use or vomiting.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Nephrotic syndrome is often associated with a high risk of thromboembolic events due to hypercoagulability, which is a result of increased levels of lipids and decreased levels of anticoagulant proteins in the blood.
**Correct Answer:** C.