High-Density Lipoproteins in Untreated Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome Without Renal Failure

Abstract

Serum apoprotein A-I and lipid composition of high-density lipoproteins in 14 adults and 9 children with idiopathic untreated nephrotic syndrome without renal failure were studied. Serum apoprotein A-I in adults was significantly raised compared to a control group (1.72 +/- 0.49 and 1.45 +/- 0.15 g/l, Mean +/- SD, respectively); a similar trend was observed in children (1.88 +/- 0.62 and 1.52 +/- 0.21 g/l, respectively). High-density lipoprotein cholesterol was normal in both groups of patients (1.19 +/- 0.30 and 1.50 +/- 0.48 mmol/l in adults and in children, respectively), whereas high-density lipoprotein phospholipids were decreased in adults and increased in children. In addition, apoprotein A-I: high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratios in both groups of patients were significantly increased with respect to their control groups. These alterations suggest the existence of qualitative changes in high-density lipoprotein composition. Despite other associated risk factors, and particularly from the point of view of the 'high-density lipoprotein hypothesis', our patients with untreated nephrotic syndrome without renal failure seem not to be at a higher coronary risk.