Are oxidized low-density lipoprotein and C-reactive protein markers of atherosclerosis in nephrotic children?

BACKGROUND: Lipid disorders are known to be linked to disturbance in oxidative reactions and play an important role in the progression and complications of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS). AIMS: The aim of this study was to assess oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL), high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) serum concentrations and other parameters of lipid metabolism in children with INS during relapse and remission of proteinuria. METHODS: The examination was performed on 23 children and adolescents diagnosed with INS. Reference group consisted of 22 participants. The study was carried out twice: in the relapse of INS (A) and in remission of proteinuria during glucocorticoid treatment (B). RESULTS: OxLDL was higher in INS patients, in both examinations when compared with reference participants. hs-CRP showed no differences between nephrotic and healthy children. We found higher concentration of oxLDL in children, who where frequent relapsers. Cholesterol, triglycerides/high density lipoprotein cholesterol and platelets were higher in INS patients (both A and B) in comparison with healthy children. CONCLUSIONS: We observed presence of pro-atherogenic lipid profile in INS. Elevation of oxLDL may reflect increased oxidative stress and higher risk of atherosclerosis in INS, therefore it seems to be relevant to find patients of risk of atherosclerosis to consider lipid lowering treatment with antioxidants.