Table 1. The pathology and steroid responses for nephrotic syndrome.

MCD, minimal change disease; FSGS, only include primary (idiopathic); MN, (primary) membranous nephropathy; IgAN, IgA nephropathy; IST, immunosuppressive therapy; Effective, means decreased proteinuria and/or slowing the progression of renal function.

	Pathology	Steroid response
MCD	foot processes effacement	Very good
FSGS	foot processes effacement and perihilar or sclerosis	Effective but may need other IST; relapse and resistant occurs
MN	Subepithelial deposition of the basement membrane on the outer surface of the capillary wall.	Effective, in combination with other IST
IgAN	IgA immune complex deposition in the mesangium	Effective, but with significant adverse effects