Progress of rituximab therapy on children with refractory nephrotic syndrome

Refractory nephrotic syndrome(RNS) is one of the main causes of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in children,which is also a difficult issue in clinic.Several therapies,including immunosuppressive agents,have been shown to be effective and safe for RNS.It is proved,however,that a substantial number of children are still refractory to treatment despite these therapies.Recently,rituximab as a new immunosuppressant has achieved good results for RNS,and a number of case reports and clinical trials have suggested that rituximab may be effective for children with RNS.This review will analyse the scientific basis for the efficacy and safety of using rituximab in children with RNS. Key words: Nephrotic syndrome;  Rituximab;  Immunosuppressant;  Children