Pathology · USMLE Step 1

USMLE Pathology: Renal System

Glomerular and tubulointerstitial disease morphology, nephrotic versus nephritic patterns, and classic renal biopsy findings. Original cards testing the underlying concepts.

40 cards · basic cards · AI-written, checked twice. Edit anything.

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What defines nephrotic syndrome in terms of proteinuria?
Proteinuria greater than 3.5 g per day
Besides massive proteinuria, what triad of findings accompanies nephrotic syndrome?
Hypoalbuminemia, edema, and hyperlipidemia
What urinary finding is the hallmark of nephritic syndrome?
Hematuria with red blood cell casts
Why does hypertension commonly occur in nephritic syndrome?
Glomerular inflammation reduces GFR, causing salt and water retention
On light microscopy, what do the glomeruli look like in minimal change disease?
Normal appearing
What electron microscopy finding is diagnostic of minimal change disease?
Diffuse effacement of podocyte foot processes
What is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in children?
Minimal change disease
How does minimal change disease typically respond to treatment?
Excellent response to corticosteroids
What light microscopy pattern defines focal segmental glomerulosclerosis?
Sclerosis in some glomeruli (focal) and only part of each affected glomerulus (segmental)
What is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in Black adults?
Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
FSGS is classically associated with which two conditions?
HIV infection and heroin use
What electron microscopy pattern is seen in membranous nephropathy?
Subepithelial deposits producing a 'spike and dome' appearance
What is the most common cause of primary nephrotic syndrome in white adults?
Membranous nephropathy
Which antibody is most associated with primary membranous nephropathy?
Anti-PLA2R (phospholipase A2 receptor) antibody
Name three causes of secondary membranous nephropathy.
Hepatitis B infection, solid tumors, and systemic lupus erythematosus

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