HERBAL APPROACH IN MANAGEMENT OF NEPHROTIC SYNDROME

Abstract

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is an important chronic renal disease prevalent among pediatric population. Nephrotic syndrome has emerged as immunological disorder. Researches on pathogenesis have shown T lymphocyte dysregulation and vascular permeability factors that might contribute the alteration in podocyte function and permselectivity resulting in NS. Prognosis of treatment depends upon steroid responsiveness. Most of them are sensitive initially but later on may relapse or become steroid dependent or resistant to it. Drugs like levamisole, cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine, long term alternate day corticosteroids etc. have been used in combination with various protocols to treat steroid dependent or steroid resistant NS with variable results outcome and more side effects. Hence an alternative therapy is needed. Ayurvedic polyherbal formulation with properties of immunomodulator, nephroprotective and antioxidant properties can prove more beneficial in treating steroid dependent or resistant cases of NS, as add on therapy with modern therapeutic drugs for better results.