MUHAMMAD SAHIR SAUD, CH MUHAMMAD UMER RAZAQ, GHULAM MUJTABA ZAFAR, MUHAMMAD ZEESHAN KHAN, AYSHA MANSOOR LODHI, MUHAMMAD ATIF ANJUM
DOI: https://doi.org/Objective: To determine the spectrum and outcomes of infections in children with nephrotic syndrome and to evaluate their association with disease characteristics.
Study Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study.
Place and Duration of Study: Conducted at University of Child Health Sciences, The Children's Hospital, Lahore from January 2022 to July 2022.
Methodology: A total of 155 children diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome were enrolled using non-probability consecutive sampling. Demographic and clinical data, including type of nephrotic syndrome, relapse status, and laboratory parameters, were recorded. Infections were identified based on clinical features and laboratory investigations, and categorized into respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, peritonitis, sepsis, and others. Microbiological profiles were documented where available.
Results: The mean age of patients was 6.8 ± 3.2 years, with a male predominance. Respiratory tract infections were the most common (36.1%), followed by urinary tract infections (24.5%) and peritonitis (16.1%). Gram-negative organisms, particularly Escherichia coli, were the most frequently isolated pathogens. A majority of infections occurred during relapse (62.6%). Hospitalization was required in 58.7% of cases, while 14.8% required intensive care.
Conclusion: Infections are common in children with nephrotic syndrome and are strongly associated with disease activity and adverse outcomes. Early detection, appropriate management, and preventive strategies are essential to reduce morbidity and improve clinical outcomes.
