Pediatric Nephrology

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Pediatric nephrology refers to the medical specialty that comprises the diagnosis, management, and treatment of all the diseases associated with the kidneys amongst the children. Although the incidence of kidney problems most especially in the pediatric age group is not as common as in the adults, those conditions can greatly affect the child’s growth, development and health in general. At NU Hospitals, we are noted for the best care provided to children with both common and complex kidney problems.

Common Kidney Conditions in Children

In children, the kidneys sometimes may be affected by developmental disorders, infections, or acquired diseases. A few of the most common conditions treated in pediatric nephrology are:

1. Congenital Anomalies of the Kidney and Urinary Tract (CAKUT): These are the kidney or urinary tract disorders that arise due to the structural abnormalities present since birth. The untreated CAKUT can lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD) or kidney failure.
2. Nephrotic Syndrome: A condition in which proteins get out through urine which in turn causes swelling and other problems. The steroid-sensitive type is more common in children but often shows favorable results with treatment.
3. Posterior Urethral Valves:The situation where there is excessive tissue causing a blockage in the male urethra thus bringing about difficulty in urination and even damage to the kidneys.
4. Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Repeated infections may be a sign of some underlying problems such as vesicoureteric reflux or voiding dysfunction, hence the need for specialized care.
5. Renal Tubular Disorders: Such are conditions like renal tubular acidosis, wherein the kidneys cannot perfectly harmonize the acid-based levels of the body. The symptoms can range from metabolic acidosis and dehydration to rickets and even a growth defect.
6. Glomerulonephritis: Inflammatory diseases that damage the kidney’s filtering units cause frequent symptoms such as blood in the urine, protein in the urine, or high blood pressure.
7. Kidney Stones in Children: However, it is really rare but sometimes nephrolithiasis (Kidney stones) occurs in children which leads to pain, infections, and long term kidney damage if it is left untreated.

Advanced Care for Kidney Failure in Children

The intervention in the case of the children who are suffering from serious kidney damage and the end-stage renal disease (ESRD) should be done in the early stages to be effective. NU Hospitals through its core philosophy of comprehensive care, provides care for renal failure through:

• Dialysis: We offer peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis specifically designed for children. Our children's hospital is a place where stress-free procedures can be performed.
• Kidney Transplantation: Children with ESRD can get a kidney transplant that would be life-saving for them. The team is thorough with the pre-transplant evaluations and offers post-transplant care to the patients for long-term success.
• Nutritional Management: Nutrition is fundamental in the management of pediatric kidney disease. Our professionals build individualized diets to cater to the special requirements of children as they grow.

Multidisciplinary Approach to Paediatric Nephrology

At NU Hospitals, we cover the full spectrum of pediatrics in nephrology from treatment to support. We work hand in hand with parents to provide the kind of care that makes the children happy. Our focus is on keeping kids healthy so that they can keep playing, exploring, laughing, and doing what they love.

• Pediatric nephrologists having proficiency in treating complex renal diseases have extensive know-how in the relevant field.
• Dialysis technicians who have the skills necessary to treat pediatric patients skillfully.
• Dietitians focusing on menu development for patients with kidney diseases.
• Psychologists and child counselors to ensure the emotional well-being of children.

We concentrate on early diagnosis, preventive care, and thus make long-term management possible, which leads to better outcomes for children with kidney diseases.