Infantile nephrotic syndrome secondary to cytomegalovirus infection in a 7-month-old girl: resolution with ganciclovir.

Abstract

Infantile nephrotic syndrome is a rare disorder which is frequently caused by genetic defects. A 7-month-old girl presented with fever, loose stools and anasarca and was diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome. Work-up for a genetic cause was negative. Cytomegalovirus polymerase chain reaction (CMV PCR) was positive and the infant was treated with ganciclovir for 6 weeks, followed by valganciclovir for 10 weeks. All symptoms resolved within 2 weeks of commencing treatment and she attained complete remission within 4 weeks. CMV PCR was negative within 4 weeks of antiviral therapy. At 18 months follow-up she remained well. Appropriate treatment of infantile nephrotic syndrome secondary to CMV should result in recovery.