On electron microscopy of a renal biopsy from a child with nephrotic syndrome, diffuse effacement of podocyte foot processes is seen with no immune deposits. Light microscopy shows normal glomeruli. Immunofluorescence is negative. This pattern is diagnostic of:
- A Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
- B Membranous nephropathy
- C Minimal change disease ✓
- D IgA nephropathy
Correct answer: C. Minimal change disease
Explanation
Minimal change disease (MCD) shows podocyte foot process effacement on EM as the only diagnostic abnormality, with normal or near-normal light microscopy and no immune deposits on immunofluorescence or EM. It is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in children and responds to corticosteroids. FSGS shows segmental sclerosis on LM with podocyte injury. Membranous nephropathy shows subepithelial deposits on EM. IgA nephropathy shows mesangial IgA deposits.
Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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