Cerebral thrombosis in childhood nephrosis

Abstract

Sinovenous thrombosis is an uncommon but serious complication associated with nephrotic syndrome in children. We describe a 9-year-old Caucasian boy who presented with dehydration, vague neurological symptoms and seizures. A diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome was made during the course of hospitalization. The serum antithrombin III level was decreased and brain imaging showed cerebral sinovenous thrombosis. Anticoagulant therapy with heparin was commenced and the patient made a slow but gradual clinical, as well as radiological recovery. We describe this case and review available literature to highlight the importance of suspecting and recognizing this potentially life threatening complication and initiating early treatment.