The correlation between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nephrology
• Child Psychiatry

Background:

• Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a kidney disorder characterized by proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, edema, and hyperlipidemia.
• Steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome (SDNS) is a common form in children, often treated with corticosteroids.
• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has diverse etiologies, and its relationship with chronic childhood conditions like SDNS is not well-established.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of ADHD in children with SDNS compared to a healthy control group.
• To determine if there is a significant association between SDNS and ADHD in children aged 5-13 years.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 130 children (65 with SDNS, 65 healthy controls) aged 5-13 years.
• Parents completed the Conner's Parent Rating Scale - 48 (CPRS-48) to screen for ADHD.
• Children suspected of ADHD were referred to a psychiatrist for further evaluation.

Main Results:

• Analysis revealed no statistically significant difference in the prevalence of ADHD between the SDNS group and the control group.
• No significant relationship was found between different types of ADHD and SDNS.

Conclusions:

• The study concludes that childhood SDNS is not significantly associated with an increased prevalence of ADHD.
• Findings suggest that ADHD in children with SDNS may stem from factors independent of the nephrotic syndrome itself.