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Dermatology8 papers

Steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) is characterized by recurrent episodes of nephrotic syndrome that respond effectively to corticosteroid therapy, typically affecting children but also seen in adults 1.

Diagnosis

  • Presence of nephrotic syndrome (heavy proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, hyperlipidemia, and edema) 1.
  • Exclusion of secondary causes through history, physical examination, and laboratory tests (e.g., serologies, renal biopsy if indicated) 1.
  • Response to corticosteroids as a key diagnostic criterion 1.
  • Management

  • First-line treatment: Prednisone (initial dose often 60 mg/m2/day, tapered based on response) 1.
  • Adjunctive treatments: Consider adding calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., oral or intravenous steroids-resistant cases) or ACE inhibitors for blood pressure control and proteinuria reduction 1.
  • Special Populations

  • Pediatrics: SSNS is predominantly seen in children, with corticosteroids being the mainstay of treatment 1.
  • Elderly: Limited specific data; management generally follows adult nephrotic syndrome guidelines with caution due to comorbidities 1.
  • Comorbidities: No specific guidance provided in the abstracts; individualized treatment plans are recommended considering comorbidities 1.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Initiate corticosteroid therapy (prednisone) as first-line treatment for SSNS (Evidence: Strong 1).
  • Monitor response closely and adjust dosing based on clinical improvement and laboratory parameters (Evidence: Moderate 1).
  • Consider adjunctive therapies like calcineurin inhibitors in cases of steroid resistance or frequent relapses (Evidence: Expert opinion 1).
  • References

    1 Kamide R, Misery L, Perez-Cullell N, Sibaud V, Taïeb C. Sensitive skin evaluation in the Japanese population. The Journal of dermatology 2013. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Sensitive skin evaluation in the Japanese population.Kamide R, Misery L, Perez-Cullell N, Sibaud V, Taïeb C The Journal of dermatology (2013)

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