Filipina nurse in UAE diagnosed with rare kidney disease

A Filipina nurse in the UAE has raised awareness about a rare and dangerous kidney disease after experiencing serious health symptoms. The 38-year-old patient, who suffers from diabetes, obesity, and hypertension, noticed frothy urine and swelling in her legs. Initially, she ignored these signs, unaware they indicated a severe kidney condition. At RAK Hospital, doctors began testing her condition and found she was losing a significant amount of protein and blood in her urine. They diagnosed her with Pauci-immune Crescentic Glomerulonephritis, an aggressive form of kidney disease that can lead to kidney failure if not treated quickly. This condition affects only 10-20 people per million yearly. The patient's medical history increased her risk of complications. A kidney biopsy was necessary for confirmation but was challenging due to her obesity. However, doctors successfully performed the procedure and started an effective treatment plan, which included a medication called Rituximab. Within a week, the patient showed major improvement. Her kidney function significantly increased, and her other symptoms began to resolve. Doctors highlighted the importance of early detection and managing underlying health issues, especially for those with a history of autoimmune conditions. RAK Hospital has emphasized that symptoms such as frothy urine and unexplained swelling should never be ignored. They encourage regular health check-ups for individuals with diabetes or hypertension to detect kidney issues early. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of kidney health and seeking medical help when unusual symptoms occur.