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Paediatric Nephrology

What is Paediatric Nephrology?

Paediatric nephrology is a branch of medicine that focuses on diagnosing and treating kidney-related conditions in children, from newborns to teenagers. The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste, balancing fluids, and maintaining blood pressure. When they donโ€™t work properly, it can affect a childโ€™s growth and overall health.

Common Kidney Conditions in Children

  • 1. Congenital Anomalies: Birth defects like blocked urine flow or misshapen kidneys are the leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in young children 1
  • 2. Nephrotic Syndrome: This condition causes protein leakage into urine, leading to swelling (often around the eyes) and fatigue. Most cases respond well to steroids 2 3
  • 3. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Repeated UTIs can scar kidneys if untreated, especially with underlying structural issues 1 4
  • 4. Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS): A severe illness triggered by infections (e.g., E. coli), causing kidney failure due to damaged blood vessels 5

Signs Your Child May Have a Kidney Problem

  • Swelling in the face, hands, or feet
  • Changes in urine (blood, foamy urine, or very little urine)
  • High blood pressure
  • Fatigue, poor appetite, or trouble growing

Causes & Risk Factors

  • Genetic conditions like polycystic kidney disease 6
  • Infections (e.g., untreated UTIs or HUS) 5
  • Premature birth or low birth weight 7

How Are Kidney Problems Diagnosed?

Doctors may use:8

  • Urine tests to check for protein, blood, or infection.
  • Blood tests to measure kidney function (e.g., creatinine levels).
  • Ultrasound or other imaging to look at kidney structure

Treatment Options

  • Medications (e.g., antibiotics for UTIs, steroids for nephrotic syndrome). 9 10
  • Diet changes (limiting salt or protein if needed) 7
  • Dialysis (for severe kidney failure) 11
  • Kidney transplant (in advanced cases). 12

How Can Parents Help?

  • Ensure your child drinks enough water.
  • Watch for symptoms and seek early medical advice.
  • Follow the doctorโ€™s treatment plan carefully.

When to See a Paediatric Nephrologist

If your child has recurring UTIs, unexplained swelling, or abnormal urine/blood tests, a paediatric nephrologist can provide specialized care.

Conclusion

Kidney problems in children can be managed effectively with early detection and proper treatment. If you have concerns about your childโ€™s kidney health, consult a paediatric nephrologist for guidance.

References

  1. 1. https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/kidney-diseases-childhood.html
  2. 2. https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=nephrotic-syndrome-in-children-90-P03098
  3. 3. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/nephrotic-syndrome/
  4. 4. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/genitourinary-tract/Pages/Chronic-Kidney-Disease-in-Children.aspx
  5. 5. https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/hematology-and-oncology/thrombocytopenia-and-platelet-dysfunction/hemolytic-uremic-syndrome-hus li>
  6. 6. https://pkdcure.org/centers/mayo-clinic-childrens-center-rochester-2/https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/kidney-diseases-childhood.html .
  7. 7. Michel Baum. Curr Opin Pediatr. 2010 April ; 22(2): 158โ€“160
  8. Riccabona M. Imaging in childhood urinary tract infection. Radiol Clin North Am. 2017;55(1):47-57.
  9. 9. https://kidneyfoundation.cachefly.net/professionals/KDOQI/guidelines_bp/guide_13.htm .
  10. 10. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/nephrotic-syndrome/ .
  11. 11.https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/peritoneal-dialysis-for-a-child .
  12. 12. Webster AC, Nagler EV, Morton RL, et al. Chronic kidney disease. Lancet. 2017;389(10075):1238-52.

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