glomerular sclerosis
Pathological hardening and scarring of glomerular tissue leading to permanent loss of kidney filtering units.
Full Definition
Glomerular sclerosis refers to the irreversible scarring of glomeruli, the kidney's filtering units, resulting in permanent loss of nephron function. In pediatric patients, this process can be focal (affecting some glomeruli) or global (affecting all glomeruli), and segmental (affecting part of a glomerulus) or global (affecting the entire glomerulus). Common causes include focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), chronic glomerulonephritis, and long-standing hypertension. The process involves deposition of collagen and other proteins that replace normal glomerular architecture. Progressive glomerular sclerosis ultimately leads to chronic kidney disease and may require renal replacement therapy.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from glomerulosclerosis when used as a single compound word vs. the two-word form.
In Context
- "The renal biopsy showed extensive glomerular sclerosis involving 60% of sampled glomeruli." — Pathology report
- "Progressive glomerular sclerosis was evident on serial imaging studies over the past two years." — Longitudinal nephrology assessment