Immunosuppressive Therapies for Frequently Relapsing and Steroid-Dependent Nephrotic Syndrome in Children: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Nephrotic syndrome, a common glomerular disease in children, affects two to five per 100,000 annually. FRSDNS, a relapsing or steroid-dependent syndrome, affects 50% of children with SSNS. Immunosuppressive therapies, including rituximab, cyclophosphamide, tacrolimus, and MMF, are effective in managing pediatric FRSDNS. Methods: This systematic review adhered to PRISMA 2020 guidelines and focused on full-text English literature published from 2014 to 2024. Result: Following a thorough screening process consisting of three stages, six papers were determined to have pertinent connections to our ongoing comprehensive investigation. Following that, the text as a whole was thoroughly studied and these sections received more attention. Conclusion: Rituximab, an immunosuppressive agent, is a promising treatment for FRSDNS in children, reducing recurrence rates and corticosteroid exposure. It prolongs clinical remission and reduces glucocorticoid requirements, despite limited data. Despite cost concerns, it remains a promising option for treating nephrotic conditions.