Session Title: Pediatric Nephrotic Syndorme
Organized by: Chugai Pharmaceutical Co.,Ltd.
Theme 1: Better Kidney Health
Session Description:
Pediatric nephrotic syndrome is a major condition in which relapse and treatment resistance markedly affect long-term renal outcomes and quality of life. In recent years, reports of novel biomarkers, including anti nephrin antibodies, have further deepened understanding of disease mechanisms. In clinical practice, the introduction of agents such as rituximab and mycophenolate mofetil has expanded options for difficult cases. This session will bridge basic research and clinical care by integrating the latest pathophysiologic insights, advances in immunosuppressive therapy, and case presentations. We will emphasize the clinical significance of biomarkers—especially anti nephrin antibodies—and practical points for selecting immunosuppressants, initiating therapy, maintaining and tapering treatment, monitoring, and preventing infections. We will also discuss biomarker guided decisions and risk mitigation, including laboratory surveillance, vaccination timing, and strategies to reduce infectious complications and drug toxicity. Through illustrative cases, participants will explore how mechanistic knowledge can guide individualized strategies for relapse, frequent relapse, and steroid dependence, and how to align therapeutic choices with safety considerations. By the end, attendees will gain actionable takeaways to support thoughtful, personalized care for children with nephrotic syndrome.
Learning Objectives:
■ Explain the pathogenesis of pediatric nephrotic syndrome from the perspective of novel biomarkers such as anti-nephrin antibodies.
■ Present concrete approaches to link basic research findings to treatment selection and the use of biomarkers.
■ Describe key points of immunosuppressive therapy for refractory cases (such as rituximab and mycophenolate mofetil), including mechanisms of action, initiation and maintenance, monitoring, and infection prevention.