Pattern of Infections in the Children Suffering with Nephrotic Syndrome

Abstract

Background: Children with nephrotic syndrome are more susceptible to infection due to both the illness itself and the use of several immunosuppressive drugs. Most frequently, infections result in relapses that increase the risk of morbidity and death, require hospitalization, and require treatment. Due to infections, children with nephrotic syndrome (NS) have a high rate of morbidity and death. The reported forms of infections differ widely, and little is known about how patient features or therapy may impact the likelihood of infection. Considering this, our aim was to look into the pattern and frequency of infections in children with nephrotic syndrome. Due to infections, children with nephrotic syndrome still experience high rates of morbidity and death. It might also be the reason for a bad reaction to steroid treatment, the onset of illness, or relapses.

Aim: The purpose of this study was to ascertain the kind and incidence of severe infections in children with nephrotic syndrome.

 Material and Method: This cross-sectional study was descriptive in nature and was conducted by the Department of Pediatrics. All children aged 2 to 12 who fulfilled the criteria for nephrotic syndrome as defined by the Study of Kidney Disease in Children (ISKDC) were included, regardless of whether they were infected. This covered every case of relapse that was brought into the hospital's pediatric unit while the trial was underway. Acute or chronic renal insufficiency, as well as urogenital anomalies, were excluded from the study. During this time, ninety children were eligible for the study; however, ten of them either ran out of the hospital or refused to take part. Thus, a total of eighty children participated in the study. After obtaining signed informed consent, we started enrolling people in the ongoing trial. Written, informed consent was provided by patients or their guardians who wished to take part in the trial.

Results: There were 51 (63.75%) episodes of major infections in 48 children with nephrotic syndrome. Three children had multiple infections. Thirty-Seven (46.25%) episodes of major infections occurred during relapses and 14 (17.5%) during the initial episode of nephrotic syndrome.

Conclusion: Children with NS are prone to infections; peritonitis, pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and diarrhea are the most common ailments. When an infection arises, these children's hospital stays are far longer than those of nephrotic children who do not have an infection. Given the prevalence of pneumococcal infection in our study, we advise more widespread pneumococcal vaccination coverage in such youngsters. In conclusion, major infections—especially during relapses—remain a major risk factor for kids with nephrotic syndrome. Drug-resistant organisms should be taken into account while treating infections in children with nephrotic syndrome.

Keywords: Major infections, Peritonitis, Nephrotic syndrome and Septicemia.