Pediatric nephrology is the branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of kidney and urinary tract diseases in children from infancy to adolescence. Many diseases, from urinary tract infections and congenital kidney anomalies to nephrotic syndrome and hypertension, fall within the scope of this specialty.
What is Pediatric Nephrology?
Pediatric nephrology is a subspecialty of pediatrics that encompasses the evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of kidney and urinary tract conditions in children. From infancy to adolescence, the development and function of the kidneys, fluid and electrolyte balance in the body, and urinary system functions are among the primary areas of interest for pediatric nephrology.
This field is not limited to treating existing kidney problems; it is also important for preserving kidney function, early detection of progressive problems, and supporting the healthy growth and development of the child.
Because the kidneys play a crucial role in removing excess fluid and waste products from the body, regulating blood pressure, maintaining mineral balance, and regulating certain hormones, pediatric nephrology is an important part of overall child health.
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What diseases does pediatric nephrology treat?
Pediatric nephrology deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of diseases related to the kidneys, urinary tract, and urinary system in children. Kidney and urinary system problems that can occur from infancy to adolescence are evaluated by pediatric nephrology specialists.
The main diseases treated by pediatric nephrology are:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Common in children, these can present with symptoms such as fever, burning sensation, frequent urination, or foul-smelling urine.
- Kidney stones can cause symptoms such as abdominal, flank, or lower back pain, blood in the urine, and difficulty urinating.
- Nephrotic syndrome: This can manifest as edema in the body, protein leakage in the urine, and swelling, particularly around the eyes.
- Nephritis: This condition causes inflammation in the kidneys. Symptoms may include blood in the urine, high blood pressure, and swelling in the body.
- Congenital kidney and urinary tract anomalies: These encompass developmental problems related to kidney structure and urinary tract that are noticed either in the womb or after birth.
- Vesicoureteral reflux: This is a condition where urine flows back from the bladder to the kidneys. It can lead to recurrent urinary tract infections.
- Hypertension in children: High blood pressure in some children may be associated with kidney disease and may require follow-up by a nephrologist.
- Presence of blood or protein in urine: This may be detected during routine tests or post-operative evaluations and should be investigated for kidney function.
- Nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting and urinary incontinence): This can be evaluated by a pediatric nephrologist depending on the child's age, developmental stage, and accompanying symptoms.
- Chronic kidney disease: This refers to a condition in which kidney function is affected for a long period. Regular monitoring and treatment planning are important.
What tests are performed in the Pediatric Nephrology Department?
Tests performed in the pediatric nephrology department are used to assess whether the kidneys and urinary tract are functioning properly. These tests, used in the diagnostic process, are planned according to the child's complaints and clinical condition.
The main tests performed in pediatric nephrology are as follows:
- Urine analysis: This test evaluates urine for blood, protein, signs of infection, and other abnormalities.
- Urine culture: This is done to identify the bacteria that cause urinary tract infections.
- Blood tests: Urea, creatinine, and electrolyte levels are examined, as well as kidney function.
- Protein leak tests: Protein loss is measured with spot urine or 24-hour urine.
- Kidney ultrasound: The structure, size, and possible anomalies of the kidneys are visualized.
- Voiding cystourethrography (VSUG): This is performed to assess whether urine is flowing back from the bladder to the kidneys.
- Renal scintigraphy: This examines the functional status of the kidneys and whether there is any damage.
- Blood pressure measurement: High blood pressure, which may be associated with kidney disease, is assessed.
- Further urine and blood tests: Detailed analyses are performed if necessary.
What treatments are offered in the Pediatric Nephrology Department?
Treatments in the pediatric nephrology department are planned to protect the child's kidney and urinary tract health, prevent the progression of the existing disease, and control symptoms. The treatment process is determined individually according to the child's age, diagnosis, severity of the disease, and the status of kidney function.
The main treatments applied in pediatric nephrology are as follows:
- Drug treatments: Medications may be used to treat conditions such as infection, high blood pressure, edema, proteinuria, or kidney inflammation.
- Urinary tract infection treatment: Appropriate antibiotic treatment is planned according to the cause of the infection. In recurrent infections, preventive treatment and regular follow-up may be necessary.
- Blood pressure treatment: High blood pressure that can develop due to kidney disease is controlled with medication and lifestyle modifications.
- Treatment of protein leakage and nephrotic syndrome: Treatments are applied to reduce protein loss in the urine, control edema, and protect kidney function.
- Regulation of fluid and electrolyte balance: The balance of water, salt, potassium, calcium, and other minerals in the body is monitored to determine the necessary treatment plan.
- Dietary adjustments: Depending on the type of kidney disease, personalized dietary recommendations may be provided regarding the consumption of salt, protein, fluids, or certain minerals.
- Kidney stone treatment: Depending on the size, location, and cause of the stone, treatment may involve fluid intake, dietary changes, medication, or, if necessary, interventional treatments in collaboration with different specialists.
- Treatment for nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting) and urinary incontinence: Depending on the child's age and the underlying cause, behavioral recommendations, a follow-up program, and medication when necessary may be applied.
- Chronic kidney disease monitoring: Kidney function is preserved, disease progression is slowed, and the process is closely monitored through regular laboratory tests.
- Dialysis and further treatment planning: In cases of severely impaired kidney function, dialysis or further treatment options are evaluated by a pediatric nephrologist.
