Mycophenolate Mofetil for Treatment of Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome in Children

Abstract

Introduction. Management of frequently relapsing steroid-responsive or steroid-resistant idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (NS) in children has been a clinical challenge for pediatric nephrologists. In addition, adverse effects of long-term corticosteroids and cyclosporine administration emerge seeking a safe and effective treatment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in these patients.

Materials and Methods. This study reviewed the outcomes of children with frequently relapsing or steroid-resistant idiopathic NS who were treated with MMF.

Results. A total of 36 patients (23 boys and 13 girls) were included. Their mean age at the time of diagnosis of NS was 61.94 ± 43.9 months. Of the children, 91.6% of those who had frequent relapses and 8.3% of those with steroid-resistant NS responded to MMF significantly (P < .001), with no significant association between age and gender with response to MMF. The treatment was well tolerated with no significant complications.

Conclusions. In children with frequently relapsing NS, MMF was a safe and useful drug for maintaining remission, while it was of low value in children with steroid-resistant NS.