A Study of Efficacy of Levamisole in Children with Frequently Relapsing and Steroid-dependent Nephrotic Syndrome

Dr. Mani Shankar; Dr. Ashok Kumar

Volume : VIII, Issue : III, March - 2019

A Study of Efficacy of Levamisole in Children with Frequently Relapsing and Steroid-dependent Nephrotic Syndrome

Dr. Mani Shankar, Dr. Ashok Kumar

Abstract :

Objectives: To assess the efficacy of levamisole in frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome and steroid–dependent nephroticsyndrome. Study Design: Retrospective analysis of hospital case records. Participants: 62 children with frequently relapsing nephroticsyndrome and 35 children with steroid–dependent nephroticsyndrome. Methods: Case records of children who were diagnosed assteroid–dependant or frequently–relapsing nephrotic syndrome, were reviewed. Levamisole was given daily (2 mg/kg/d) along with tapering doses of alternate daysteroids after remission on daily steroids. Results: Levamisole was effective in 77.3% children with a better(80.6%) efficacy in frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome. Atotal of 34 children completed 1 year follow–up post levamisoletherapy. The cumulative mean (SD) steroid dose 1–year beforetherapy was 4109(1154) mg/m2 and 1–year post therapy was 661(11) mg/m2 (P<0.001). The relapses were also less during theperiod of post–levamisole therapy. Conclusion: Levamisole is an effective alternative therapy infrequently relapsing and steroid–dependent nephrotic syndrome