Psychosocial Functioning and Health-Related Quality of Life in Children with Nephrotic Syndrome: Preliminary Findings

Abstract

Background: Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is one of the most commonly diagnosed kidney diseases in childhood, with a high relapse rate. Aim: This study was designed to assess emotional and behavioural problems, temperament, family environment, and evaluate the health-related quality of life in children with NS. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in South India. A purposive sampling technique was used. A sample of 32 children between ages 6 and 12 years with NS—steroid-sensitive (infrequent relapsers, frequent relapsers, or those with steroid-dependent) and steroid-resistant—for more than 6 months duration and managed by the Pediatric Nephrology department were recruited. The control group of 30 healthy children was matched for age and gender. The assessment was conducted using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ (PedsQL 4.0), Malhotra Temperament Schedule, and Family Environment Scale. Data obtained was examined using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: On the SDQ, 34.4% of children with NS indicated a total score within the clinical range. Children with NS had an overall lower score on the QOL scale ( P < .003). It was found that the SRNS subtype had poor scores on SDQ ( P < .023) and QOL ( P < .017). The temperament of children with NS did not differ from those of healthy children. The families with NS scored lower on organization ( P < .042) and control ( P < .006) subscales. Conclusion: Children with NS have a risk of emotional and behavioural problems. It appears that children with NS have a poor quality of life. Families of children with NS were less organized and low in control. Findings indicate the need for routine psychological evaluation and intervention as they will impact the course and outcome of NS.