Clinical Profile and Prognosis of Steroid Resistant Nephrotic Syndrome in Cameroon: A Single Centre Experience

Background: Steroid-resistance in idiopathic nephrotic syndrome is report high in Sub Saharan Africa. However, data on clinical profile and renal survival are scarce. We sought to compare the clinical profile of Steroid-Resistant and Steroid-Sensitive Nephrotic Syndrome (SRNS, SSNS) and evaluate the renal survival of SRNS patients in a nephrology reference centre of Cameroon. Materials and methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study over 7 years using clinical records of incidents patients with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome who were followed for more than 3 months. Demographic, clinical and biological data were collected. Renal survival was estimated by Kaplan and Meier curves. Results: A total of 47 patients were included, including 27 patients with SRNS (57.4%). Age was comparable between SRNS and SSNS patients (19 [IQI 13-28] years vs. 15 [IQI 5-31] years), but the proportion of female was higher among SRNS (29.6% vs 5%, p=0.036). Delayed clinical care and impure nephrotic syndrome were more common in SRNS. Overall, 12 (44.5%) patients developed end stage renal disease and 10 (37%) died. Renal survival rates at 12, 24, 36 months were 83.3%, 33.6% and 25% respectively. Renal survival was comparable between children and adult, as well as between female and male. Conclusion: Steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome in common in Cameroon and it is associated with poor renal prognosis.