Diffuse mesangial sclerosis

**Definition:** Diffuse mesangial sclerosis is a histological appearance which is characterised by diffuse thickening of basement membrane and massive enlargement of mesangial areas leading to contraction and sclerosis of the glomerular capillary tuft. It may be seen in children with early onset steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome due to a variety of genetic abnormalities, either as an isolated renal disease or as part of a multi-organ syndrome.