Nephrotic syndrome in children is caused by -a) Minimal change diseaseb) RPGNc) MPGNd) FSGSe) Membranous nephritis
**Core Concept**
Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by **massive proteinuria**, hypoalbuminemia, hyperlipidemia, and edema. The underlying cause can vary, with some conditions more prevalent in children than adults. **Glomerular diseases** are the primary cause of nephrotic syndrome.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is **Minimal change disease**, which is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in children. It is characterized by the loss of foot processes of the **podocytes** in the glomerulus, leading to massive proteinuria. The disease is named for the fact that the glomeruli appear normal or nearly normal under light microscopy.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option B:** Rapidly Progressive Glomerulonephritis (RPGN) is more commonly associated with **nephritic syndrome**, characterized by hematuria, hypertension, and reduced renal function.
**Option C:** Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis (MPGN) can cause nephrotic syndrome but is less common in children.
**Option D:** Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is another cause of nephrotic syndrome but is less common than minimal change disease in children.
**Option E:** Membranous nephritis can cause nephrotic syndrome but is more common in adults.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember that **minimal change disease** is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in children, and it has a good response to **corticosteroid therapy**.
**Correct Answer:** A. Minimal change disease