بررسي اثرات لواميزول در كودكان مبتلا به سندرم نفروتيك ايديوپاتيك

Effects of levamisole on children with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome

Background: Nephrotic syndrome is one of the most common chronic renal diseases of childhood and for many years steroids are the first choice of treatment. Some children with nephrotic syndrome are steroid-dependant and some relapse frequently. Levamisole helps to maintain remission in some cases of steroid-dependant children. Materials and methods: During this case series study, 41 children with the diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome who had referred to Children Medical Center during a 15-year period (1986-2001) were included. Levamisole was administered according to the standard protocol and its effect on number of relapses, steroid usage, remission, and also its side-effects were all determined. Results: The study population included 28 boys and 13 girls. The mean number of relapses before levamisole was 2.48 relapse per year per patient, however, one year following levamisole administration it was significantly dropped to 0.78 (p=0.008). 19 patients remained in remission after cessation of levamisole course. We have found no drug side effects. Conclusion: Levamisole has a positive effect on nephrotic syndrome. It is a safe drug that could be prescribed for affected patients.