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Pneumatosis intestinalis in a child with nephrotic syndrome and norovirus gastroenteritis

Winnie K Y Chan1, Kwok Wai Lee, Tsz Wo Fan

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, SAR, Hong Kong. chankyw@ha.org.hk

Pediatric Nephrology (Berlin, Germany)
|March 12, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome in a child led to pneumatosis intestinalis during relapse. Steroids, immunosuppressants, and norovirus gastroenteritis were identified as potential risk factors for this complication.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Nephrology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) is a common kidney disorder in children.
  • Nephrotic relapses can be associated with various complications.
  • Pneumatosis intestinalis is a rare but serious condition involving air in the intestinal wall.

Observation:

  • A pediatric patient with INS experienced extensive pneumatosis intestinalis during a nephrotic relapse.
  • The patient had recently suffered from norovirus gastroenteritis.
  • The patient was undergoing treatment with steroids and immunosuppressive agents.

Findings:

  • The case highlights a potential association between nephrotic syndrome relapse and pneumatosis intestinalis in a pediatric patient.
  • Concomitant use of steroid and immunosuppressive therapy may increase the risk.
  • Norovirus gastroenteritis infection was identified as a preceding risk factor.

Implications:

  • This case suggests a need for increased vigilance for gastrointestinal complications like pneumatosis intestinalis in children with nephrotic syndrome, especially during relapses and immunosuppressive therapy.
  • Further research may explore the mechanisms linking nephrotic syndrome, immunosuppression, viral infections, and intestinal complications.
  • Early recognition and management of pneumatosis intestinalis are crucial for favorable outcomes in affected children.

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