Long-term outcomes in children with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome: a single center experience

Abstract

Purpose: Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) is a common glomerular disease observed in children. Depending on their response to steroids, patients can be classified either as having steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) or steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS). Whereas SSNS patients respond favorably to steroid treatment and achieve a complete remission with normal renal functions, SRNS patients do not, and are at high risk of developing end-stage renal diseases (ESRD). The aim of this study was to analyze the long-term outcomes of patients with INS. Materials and Methods: In our medical center, records of children diagnosed with INS were evaluated. Demographic information, laboratory results, response to treatment, and clinical progression were analyzed. Result: Ninety-one children (64% male) with a mean age of 11.1±4.1 years (3.5-18) were included in the patient cohort, with a mean age of diagnosis of 5.2±3.8 years (1-16.2) and a mean follow-up period of 5.7±2.8 years (2-12). Sixty-eight (75%) patients had SSNS, and 23 (25%) patients had SRNS. Among the SSNS patients, 18 (31%) were steroid-dependent, 12 (20%) were frequently relapsing, and 29 (49%) were infrequently relapsing. Renal biopsy was performed on 29 (32%) patients, 59% had focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. The complete remission rate was 94% for all patients, with 100% for SSNS and 74% for SRNS. ESRD was developed for 9% of patients with SRNS. Conclusion: The response to steroid treatment serves as a valuable prognostic indicator for INS as it plays a pivotal role in mitigating the risk of progression toward end-stage renal failure.