Immunosuppressive therapy in the nephrotic syndrome in children.

The high incidence of remission and prevention of relapse of minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) in children, produced by corticosteroids is reviewed. With the introduction of corticosteroids over 30 years ago and the increased expertise in their use, the mortality rate has been reduced to less than 5%. There is no justification for a clinical trial to test the effect of corticosteroids in inducing remission, but the need remains to evaluate methods of administration in order to achieve therapeutic benefit with minimum toxicity. Children with frequently relapsing, steroid-dependent MCNS will usually enter remission following treatment with an alkylating agent such as cyclophosphamide. In about 50% no further relapse in experienced. The results of recent experience using cyclosporin A immunosuppression suggest a beneficial effect associated with steroid responsiveness. Approximately 30% of children with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis enter remission following treatment with corticosteroids. Some 30% require dialysis and transplantation within 5 years of diagnosis and immunosuppressive therapy to prevent deterioration of renal function is probably justified.