Latent cerebral hypoperfusion in a boy with persistent nephrotic syndrome

Abstract

Pediatricians are often faced with both bad temper and decreased daily activity in children with persistent nephrotic syndrome. These problems, which might affect both mental and physical development, have been explained as a consequence of general fatigue due to systemic edema and/or long-term hospitalization. However, other factors, such as cerebral hypoperfusion, may be involved. We experienced a case of a boy with steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome who showed diffuse cerebral hypoperfusion on single photon emission computed tomography. Diffuse cerebral hypoperfusion dramatically resolved as the nephrotic syndrome remitted. His bad temper, decreased daily activity, and delay of speech and motor development also improved. In our patient, cerebral hypoperfusion might have been associated with his mental problems, physical problems, and delayed development of speech.