TO EVALUATE THE EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF ZINC AS AN ADD ON THERAPY TO PREDNISOLONE FOR PRODUCING EARLY REMISSION OF PEDIATRIC NEPHROTIC SYNDROME : A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

Introduction: Nephrotic syndrome is a common pediatric kidney disorder characterized by heavy proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, edema, and hyperlipidemia. Zinc deficiency is common due to urinary losses and may delay recovery. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of zinc as an adjunct to prednisolone in achieving early remission. Materials and Methods: A prospective, open-label, randomized comparative study was conducted in 62 children (1-15 years) with first-episode nephrotic syndrome. Patients received either prednisolone plus zinc (n=31) or prednisolone alone (n=31). Urinary protein, urinary protein-creatinine ratio, urine output, fluid intake, body weight, abdominal girth, and blood pressure were monitored daily. Serum electrolytes (Na+, K+), total protein, albumin, globulin, A:G ratio, lipid profile, serum creatinine, and serum urea were measured at baseline and at remission.