Molecular mechanisms of lipid disorders in nephrotic syndrome.

tremity, pitting edema extending to the mid-thigh. No other abnormalities were found. Urinalysis revealed 4 proteinuria, numerous hyaline casts, and no hematuria or leukocyturia. A 24-hour urine collection contained 10 g of protein. A fasting serum chemistry panel showed severe hypoalbuminemia, 2.1 g/dL; hypercholesterolemia, 387 mg/dL; hypertriglyceridemia, 420 mg/dL; mild hyponatremia, 132 mEq/L; and a normal glucose level. Tests for antinuclear antibody, antidouble-stranded DNA antibody, hepatitis, and HIV serologies, as well as a rapid plasma reagin (RPR) test were negative. Complement levels were within the normal range. Light, immunofluorescent, and electron microscopy of a percutaneous renal biopsy specimen revealed unequivocal evidence of membranous nephropathy.