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Family structure and the course of steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome
Elizabeth Soliday1, Marc B Lande
1Department of Psychology, Washington State University at Vancouver, 14204 NE Salmon Creek Ave., Vancouver, WA 98686, USA. soliday@vancouver.wsu.edu
Insights
Children with steroid-sensitive idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) in nontraditional families experienced 3x more relapses. Increased support and monitoring are crucial for these pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Family Studies
- Child Health
Background:
- The prevalence of nontraditional family structures is increasing.
- Steroid-sensitive idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) is a common kidney disease in children.
- Understanding factors influencing SSNS course is vital for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of family structure on the clinical course of childhood SSNS.
- To compare disease activity, healthcare utilization, and behavior in children from traditional versus nontraditional families.
- To identify potential risks associated with different family environments for pediatric SSNS patients.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 16 children (ages 2-15) diagnosed with SSNS was studied.
- Family structures were categorized as traditional or nontraditional.
- Data collected included hospitalizations, outpatient visits, disease relapses, and behavioral assessments (Child Behavior Checklist).
Main Results:
- No significant differences were observed in hospitalizations, outpatient visits, or behavior between family groups.
- Children from nontraditional homes exhibited a significantly higher relapse rate (3 times more) compared to those from traditional homes (P=0.003).
Conclusions:
- Children with SSNS from nontraditional families may face an elevated risk of disease relapse.
- Enhanced support and closer monitoring are recommended for pediatric SSNS patients in nontraditional family settings.
- Family structure may be an important, yet underrecognized, factor in managing childhood SSNS.
Abstract:
The number of children in nontraditional families is growing. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of family structure on the course of childhood steroid-sensitive idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (SSNS). Sixteen children, 2-15 years of age, with SSNS were enrolled in the study. The effects of family structure (traditional versus nontraditional) on the number of hospitalizations and outpatient visits for the previous 2 years and disease relapses for the preceding year were evaluated. Behavior differences were assessed using the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Of the 16 families, 9 were traditional and 7 nontraditional. Hospitalizations, outpatient visits, and behavior were not different between family groups. However, children from nontraditional homes relapsed 3 times more than children from traditional homes (P=0.003). We conclude that children with SSNS from nontraditional homes may be at risk for more relapses compared with children from traditional families. Heightened support and monitoring is necessary for these children.