[Simultaneous onset of steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome and type 1 diabetes].
OBJECTIVE
We describe the case of a boy with steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome coexisting with type-1 diabetes mellitus.


METHODS
Nephrotic syndrome was diagnosed in a boy (age 3 years and 11 months) with generalized edema. Marked weight loss (23 to 16 kg), polyuria, polydipsia and weakness were observed after three weeks of treatment with prednisone 2 mg/kg/day. Diabetic ketoacidosis was confirmed by laboratory tests: hyperglycemia (glucose 657 mg/dl), glycosuria without proteinuria, acidosis and ketonuria. Therapy with insulin and prednisone was started. He was then maintained on a daily dose of NPH insulin. At age 4 years and 1 month a new episode of ketoacidosis without proteinuria occurred in association with a viral infection of the upper airways. At age 4 years and 4 months nephrotic syndrome relapsed, but the child responded well to steroid therapy. There was another relapse three months later, when prednisone treatment was interrupted. This led to the introduction of cyclophosphamide, with good results. Since then, the patient (now 5 years and 6 months old) has been taking insulin daily and nephrotic syndrome has not relapsed. Plasma levels of C3 and C4 and renal function are normal. Hematuria is occasionally present. Anti-GAD antibodies (glutamic decarboxilase) are normal and anti-islet cell antibodies are positive. HLA antigens: A2; B44; B52; DR4; DR8; DR53.


CONCLUSIONS
The simultaneous occurrence of steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome and type-1 diabetes mellitus is rare.
Rego Filho
Eduardo A
EA
Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, PR, Brazil. arego@secomtel.com.br
Mello
Solange F R
SF
Omuro
André M
AM
Loli
José O C
JO
D002675:Child, Preschool; D003520:Cyclophosphamide / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003922:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy; D005938:Glucocorticoids / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008297:Male; D009404:Nephrotic Syndrome / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy; D011241:Prednisone / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012008:Recurrence
D005938:Glucocorticoids; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D003520:Cyclophosphamide; D011241:Prednisone