Which nephropathy is characterized by focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and normal-sized kidneys?

The correct choice is HIV nephropathy, which is indeed associated with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) and often features normal-sized kidneys. In patients with HIV, nephropathy can manifest as FSGS due to the direct effects of the virus on kidney cells or through immune-mediated mechanisms resulting in damage to the glomeruli.

FSGS can particularly be noted in HIV-infected individuals and often presents without significant changes in renal size, as opposed to other types of nephropathy. This distinguishing characteristic is important clinically, as kidney size and the pattern of damage observed in histological studies can guide diagnosis and management strategies.

In contrast, diabetic nephropathy typically leads to kidney enlargement initially, followed by eventual shrinkage due to progressive damage. IgA nephropathy, commonly characterized by episodic hematuria and proteinuria, may not predominantly feature focal segmental glomerulosclerosis nor is it specifically linked with normal kidney size. Minimal change disease, which often presents with nephrotic syndrome especially in children, generally involves diffuse podocyte injury rather than focal segmental damage, and it often results in kidney enlargement due to edema.

Thus, the relationship between HIV nephropathy and focal segmental glomer