Glucocorticoid receptors, in vitro steroid sensitivity, and cytokine secretion in idiopathic nephrotic syndrome.

Background: Glucocorticoids (GC) represent the mainstay of treatment of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) and might be involved in the pathogenesis of the disease. We evaluated basal secretion of cortisol, number and affinity of glucocorticoid receptors, dexamethasone (Dex)-mediated inhibition of concanavalin-A (Con-A)-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) proliferation, and cytokine secretion in patients with INS.

Methods: Blood and saliva were obtained from 20 INS patients in relapse and 11 control patients.