The diagnosis of glomerular diseases: acute glomerulonephritis and the nephrotic syndrome.

Rapid and efficient diagnosis of diseases presenting as acute glomerulonephritis and/or nephrotic syndrome is critical for early and appropriate therapy aimed at preservation of renal function. Although there may be overlap in clinical presentation, and some patients present with clinical features of both syndromes, this analysis serves as an initial framework to proceed with serologic testing and/or pathologic confirmation en route to final diagnosis. Efficient and timely diagnosis is essential in these situations because progression to end-stage renal disease may result if the underlying disease is not promptly treated.