Steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome in children: Korean Society of Pediatric Nephrology clinical practice recommendations

Kidney Res Clin Pract. 2025 Jun 27. doi: 10.23876/j.krcp.25.130. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Pediatric nephrotic syndrome is a clinical condition characterized by severe proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, hyperlipidemia, and generalized edema, most commonly affecting children aged 2 and 6 years. Although standard oral steroid therapy is effective in managing most cases, relapses are common during childhood. Nephrotic syndrome presents significant challenges due to frequent relapses and the potential side effects of long-term drug therapy. In Korea, the absence of a unified national clinical guideline has led physicians to manage pediatric nephrotic syndrome based on diverse clinical guidelines and individual clinical judgment. To address this, the Korean Society of Pediatric Nephrology has developed an evidence-based guideline specifically tailored to the Korean healthcare system. This guideline provides recommendations for the diagnosis and management of steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome in children under the age of 18 years.

Keywords: Child; Evidence-based practice; GRADE approach; Nephrotic syndrome; Practice guideline.