Pediatric Nephrology

Pediatric nephrology is a medical subspecialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of kidney-related conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatric nephrologists manage both congenital (present at birth) and acquired kidney disorders, helping ensure proper kidney function and overall fluid and electrolyte balance in children. Common Conditions Treated in Pediatric Nephrology: 1. Congenital Anomalies of the Kidney and Urinary Tract (CAKUT): Examples: horseshoe kidney, polycystic kidney disease, hydronephrosis. These are structural abnormalities that may be identified during prenatal ultrasounds or early in life. 2. Nephrotic Syndrome: A condition where the kidneys leak too much protein into the urine. Symptoms: swelling (especially around the eyes and ankles), foamy urine, and low blood protein levels. 3. Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the glomeruli (filtering units of the kidney). Can result from infections, autoimmune diseases, or other systemic conditions. 4. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) and Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR): UTIs are common in children, and recurrent cases may suggest an underlying abnormality like VUR, where urine flows backward from the bladder to the kidneys. 5. Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): A sudden loss of kidney function due to dehydration, infections, toxins, or other medical conditions. 6. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Progressive loss of kidney function over time. May lead to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) requiring dialysis or kidney transplant. 7. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Can be both a cause and consequence of kidney disease in children. 8. Electrolyte and Acid-Base Disorders: Pediatric nephrologists manage imbalances in sodium, potassium, calcium, and blood pH. Diagnostic Tools: Urinalysis and Urine culture Blood tests for kidney function (e.g., creatinine, BUN) Ultrasound of the kidneys and bladder Renal biopsy (in selected cases) Treatment Options: Medications: steroids, immunosuppressants, antihypertensives, diuretics. Dietary management: low-sodium, low-protein diets in certain conditions. Dialysis: Peritoneal or hemodialysis for children with severe kidney failure. Kidney transplant: Considered in end-stage renal disease. Pediatric nephrologists also work closely with dietitians, social workers, and transplant teams to offer comprehensive, family-centered care.