Acute renal failure in idiopathic nephrotic syndrome

Acute renal failure (ARF) associated with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome has been reported in adults with advanced age but is a rare event in children. We have reviewed the literature on this subject and report an additional pediatric case. The pathogenetic mechanisms which may lead to ARF during the course of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome are reviewed with a brief discussion of the role of angiotensin II and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibition in this setting. Although no consensus has emerged for the prevention and treatment of ARF in patients with nephrotic syndrome, a combination of salt-poor albumin and diuretics to reduce interstitial edema may be beneficial as a preventive measure. Once acute tubular necrosis is diagnosed, dialysis may be indicated. In the majority of reports the prognosis for recovery of renal function has been good even in patients in whom long-term dialysis was required.