Nephrotic syndrome in itself isn't a disorder, but it can be the first sign of a disease or a major problem in the kidneys. The most common features of nephrotic syndrome are proteinuria (large amounts of protein in the urine), hypoproteinemia (low level of proteins, particularly albumin-a specific type of protein-in the blood), hyperlipidemia (high level of lipids, or cholesterol, in the blood), and edema (the abnormal accumulation of fluids in the tissues of the skin or the extra-cellular space). Early diagnosis of proteinuria is crucial to prevent any further damage such as complete failure of the kidneys. If you or a loved on is suffering from this syndrome, this informative book will become an invaluable part of your medical library.