The cause is unknown, but the risk is increased if there is a history of immune disorders, recent immunization, or bee sting . Minimal change disease does not reduce the amount of urine produced. It does not progress to renal failure . A renal biopsy and examination under electron microscope shows classic changes of minimal change disease. An immunofluorescence examination of renal biopsy tissue is negative.
Corticosteroids are usually effective in curing minimal change disease.
Other medications such as cyclophosphamide or chlorambucil may also be used if the disorder recurs repeatedly after discontinuing corticosteroids. Treatment of nephrotic syndrome symptoms may be needed. High-protein diets are of debatable value for symptoms of nephrotic syndrome. In many patients, reducing the amount of protein in diet produces a decrease in urine protein . Vitamin D may need to be replaced if the nephrotic syndrome is chronic and unresponsive to therapy.