Glossary

The body's system for protecting itself from viruses and bacteria or any "foreign" substances.

A drug given to suppress the natural responses of the body's immune system. Immunosuppressant are given to transplant patients to prevent organ rejection and to patients with autoimmune diseases like nephrotic syndrome.

A special x-ray of the kidneys. A dye that shows up on x-rays is used to show the drainage system of the kidneys. The dye is injected into the patient’s arm, travels in the blood to the kidneys, and is passed from the body in the urine.