A Case of a Thrombotic Storm (Arterial and Venous) in Nephrotic Syndrome

Nephrotic syndrome is a condition characterized by proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, edema, hyperlipidemia, and a hypercoagulable state. Nephrotic syndrome may lead to several complications, including, but not limited to, increased risk of infection, respiratory distress, and thromboembolism. There are several etiologies of nephrotic syndrome with various predisposing factors ranging from idiopathic, autoimmune diseases, infections (human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis C virus, hepatitis B virus), drugs, and heavy metal poisoning. Here, we report the case of a 37-year-old male who presented with worsening exertional dyspnea and bilateral lower extremity swelling. He was found to have simultaneous multiple acute thromboses in both the venous and arterial systems in the setting of worsening renal function. Further investigation revealed that the patient had membranous nephropathy. Initiation of anticoagulation and immunosuppression made a significant difference in his survival. Vascular thromboembolic (VTE) complications may be the initial presentation that prompts patients with nephrotic syndrome to seek medical care. As such, clinicians must have a high index of suspicion in patients presenting with concurrent VTE and nephrotic-range proteinuria. In addition, given that treatment modalities for the various etiologies of nephrotic syndrome differ considerably, it is also essential to distinguish the type of nephrotic syndrome in a patient, which dictates the treatment algorithm.