Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection among children with primary nephrotic syndrome: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundLimited data are available about the prevalence of helicobacter pylori (H.pylori) infection among primary NS children.ObjectivesTo assess the frequency and risk factors of H.pylori infection among children with primary NS.MethodsA cross-sectional study was carried out in Mansoura University Children''s Hospital, Egypt during the period from 2017 to 2019 including 100 NS children (NS group) and 100 healthy controls. NS group included 88 steroid sensitive (SSNS) and 12 steroid resistant (SRNS) cases. All patients were assessed for H.pylori infection using H.pylori stool antigen (HpSA) test. Statistical analysis was done using chi-square, fisher exact and Mann-Whitney tests.ResultsWith regard to HpSA test results, no significant differences were detected between control and NS groups (p = 0.193) and between SSNS and SRNS groups (p = 0.286). Concerning total biopsied cases and MCD (proven plus presumed) cases, no significant differences were found between those with positive and negative HpSA test (p = 0.648 and 0.126, respectively). The high dose of steroid therapy was associated with a higher risk of H.pylori infection among NS group (Odds ratio = 3.8; 95% confidence interval = 1.3–11.3).ConclusionThe current study negates the increased risk of H.pylori infection in children with primary NS.