How is nephrotic syndrome most commonly diagnosed?

Nephrotic syndrome is most commonly diagnosed through urinalysis because this test can reveal specific changes in the urine that are indicative of the condition. In nephrotic syndrome, the urine typically shows the presence of proteinuria, which is an abnormally high level of protein in the urine. This is a key characteristic of the syndrome, as it results from damage to the kidneys' filtering units, leading to excessive protein loss.

While other testing methods can provide valuable information regarding kidney function and underlying causes, urinalysis remains the primary tool in diagnosing nephrotic syndrome. It provides direct evidence of the condition's hallmark symptoms, making it an essential part of the diagnostic process.

Blood tests may be used to evaluate kidney function and to check for other abnormalities, but they are not as definitive for diagnosing nephrotic syndrome specifically. Ultrasound can assess kidney structure and function, while X-ray imaging is less relevant for this diagnosis, focusing on other conditions.