Persistent hypercholesterolaemia in frequently relapsing steroid- responsive nephrotic syndrome

Objective: To investigate long-term changes of serum cholesterol levels in children with frequently relapsing steroid-responsive nephrotic syndrome (NS). Methodology: Serum cholesterol values just before and during or immediately after 'relapse' were reviewed and the incidence of hypercholesterolaemia (≤200 mg/dL) was determined in eight patients (M:F, 6:2). Results: The patients with frequently relapsing NS usually showed hypercholesterolaemia (mean incidence, 81%) just before 'relapse' during clinical remission, as well as in relapse (mean incidence, 96%). A high incidence of steroid therapy was also found in each case (mean, 89%) just before relapse. Conclusions: Our results demonstrate that children with frequently relapsing NS have prolonged periods of hypercholesterolaemia, even during clinical remission. It is suggested that serum lipid profiles be monitored carefully in such patients.