Pos-151 use of rituximab in paediatric steroid sensitive nephrotic syndrome: a cost-benefit perspective

Up to 50% of children with steroid sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) develop a frequently relapsing steroid dependent course (FRSD). Prolonged exposure to corticosteroid gives rise to unfavourable complications, hence there is ongoing demand for steroid sparing agent to achieve sustainable remission and to liberate the child from corticosteroids. Rituximab (RTX) is a monoclonal antibody against the CD20 antigen on B lymphocytes. Recent studies have shown the effectiveness and safety of RTX. Nevertheless, in many Middle Income Countries (MIC), utility of RTX is limited by its cost.