Steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome

Steroid Resistant-Nephrotic Syndrome (NS) is a chronic, progressive disorder affecting upto 10% of all children with NS. It causes morbidity and mortality due to persistent edema, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, thrombosis and infection. Progression to renal failure was thought to be inevitable in survivors. Recent insights into the pathogenesis of the disease has identified several responsible genes and proteins. Studies have shown that long term aggressive therapy with combinations of steroids, alkylating agents and cyclosporine, cause complete or partial remission in 20-80% patients. The use of nonspecific renal protective agents such as the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin 2 receptor blockers, and anti-lipid agents retard disease progression. Although these are indications of significant improvement in outcome, further multicentre controlled studies are required to determine the optimum drugs and regimens to be used.