minimal change disease

subtle alterations in kidney function demonstrable by clinical albuminuria and the presence of lipid droplets in cells of the proximal tubules; abnormalities of foot processes of the glomerular epithelial cells are present but too subtle to be seen with light microscopy. It is seen primarily in children under age 6 but sometimes in adults with the nephrotic syndrome, and it may or may not progress to glomerulosclerosis or glomerulonephritis. Called also foot process d., nil d., minimal change glomerulopathy or nephropathy, and lipid or lipoid nephrosis.