Treatment:

Early and aggressive treatment is needed to control the disorder.

Treatment may involve:

• Antibiotics to control infections
• Blood pressure medicines called ACE inhibitors
• Diuretics ("water pills") to eliminate excess fluid
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as indomethacin to slow protein buildup in the urine

Fluids may be restricted to help control swelling.

Removal of the kidneys, dialysis, and kidney transplant may be recommended.

Expectations (prognosis):

The disorder commonly results in infection, malnutrition, and kidney failure. It can often lead to death by 5 years of age, and many children die within the first year. Congenital nephrotic syndrome may be successfully controlled in some cases with early and aggressive treatment, including early kidney transplantation.

Complications:

• Acute kidney failure
• Blood clots
• Chronic kidney failure
• End-stage kidney disease
• Frequent, severe infections
• Malnutrition and related diseases

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if your child has symptoms of congenital nephrotic syndrome.