Obesity-related glomerulopathy: a lesser known complication of obesity

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Obesity is a global health concern and is intricately linked to cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders. While its causal association with chronic kidney disease (CKD) has also been recognized, this entity has not been discussed extensively. Obesity-related glomerulopathy (ORG) is pathologically a secondary form of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), which typically presents clinically with subnephrotic proteinuria, and histopathologically as glomerulomegaly, and the perihilar variant of FSGS. RECENT FINDINGS: This review discusses the latest update on pathophysiology, risk factors, clinical features, diagnosis, prevention, staging, and management of ORG. Special emphasis is placed on diagnostic criteria distinguishing ORG from other FSGS variants and CKD aetiologies. SUMMARY: While obesity can impact renal health, renal status influences choice of antiobesity medication as well. Early recognition and intervention are critical to preventing progression to end-stage kidney disease.