In nephrotic syndrome, which lipid abnormality is commonly observed?

• A. Hyperlipidemia
• B. Hypolipidemia
• C. Normal lipids
• D. Hypercalcemia

Answer: (A)

Nephrotic syndrome commonly causes hyperlipidemia because the liver increases the production of lipoproteins in response to hypoalbuminemia and heavy protein loss. When proteins leak into the urine, plasma oncotic pressure falls, and the liver compensates by making more proteins and lipids, particularly cholesterol- and triglyceride-rich lipoproteins. This results in elevated total cholesterol and triglycerides, along with increased LDL and VLDL levels. The lipid abnormalities are a characteristic feature of nephrotic syndrome and reflect increased hepatic lipoprotein synthesis and altered lipid clearance. Hyperlipidemia is not expected to be the pattern in situations with low lipids, normal lipids, or calcium abnormalities.