A Study of Dyslipidemia and Its Clinical Implications in Childhood Nephrotic Syndrome

Nephrotic syndrome in children is characterized by dyslipidemia, which is an indirect risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, progressive glomerulosclerosis, and related complications. The objective is to determine the range of lipid profile abnormalities in relation to onset, relapse, and remission, as well as to determine if there is any relationship between dyslipidemia and the frequency of relapses.

One hundred and two diagnosed cases of nephrotic syndrome in the age group of less than 12 years were included, out of which 64 patients belonged to the first episode of nephrotic syndrome and 38 patients were relapse cases. Steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome cases or patients with a history of diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, familial hypercholesterolemia, children with chronic kidney disease, and edema due to other causes were excluded from the study.

There was a statistically significant increase in lipid parameters except for high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol at the disease onset when compared to remission in cases of the first episode as well as relapse cases of nephrotic syndrome. There was a positive correlation between relapse frequency and dyslipidemia. Dyslipidaemia was also associated with low serum albumin, with a p-value <0.001, which is statistically significant.

Dyslipidemia is significantly higher in relapse cases of nephrotic syndrome and remains higher even during remission. Dyslipidemia is a directly associated risk factor for atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease (CAD), along with progressive glomerulosclerosis. Early identification and treatment of hyperlipidemia is therefore justified so that along with longevity, we can also improve the quality of life of children suffering from nephrotic syndrome.