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Published on: February 9, 2021
Resolution of medullary nephrocalcinosis in children with metabolic bone disorders
1Section of Pediatric Nephrology, The Children's Mercy Hospital, University of Missouri at Kansas City School of Medicine, 64108, USA.
Insights
Renal calcifications (nephrocalcinosis) resolved ultrasonographically in four children with metabolic bone disease. Mild tubular dysfunction may persist, warranting further study on anticalciuric diuretics.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Nephrocalcinosis (NC) resolution is documented in furosemide-induced cases.
- Limited data exists on NC resolution in other pediatric conditions.
Observation:
- Four children with metabolic bone disease (hypophosphatasia, X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets) showed resolution of renal calcifications.
- Ultrasonographic resolution occurred while patients were on anticalciuric diuretics.
- Most patients maintained normal renal function and urinalysis.
Findings:
- Ultrasonographic resolution of nephrocalcinosis is possible in children with metabolic bone disorders.
- Mild renal tubular dysfunction was noted in some patients despite NC resolution.
- Anticalciuric diuretics were used in most patients during resolution.
Implications:
- This suggests a potential role for anticalciuric diuretics in managing pediatric nephrocalcinosis.
- Long-term follow-up is necessary to monitor for persistent tubular dysfunction.
- Further research is needed to confirm the efficacy of anticalciuric diuretics in NC resolution.
Abstract:
Ultrasonographic resolution of nephrocalcinosis (NC) has been reported in children with furosemide-induced NC, but not in other entities. We report the cases of four children with metabolic bone disease, two with hypophosphatasia and two with X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets, in whom we observed resolution of renal calcifications. At the time of ultrasonographic resolution of NC, 3 of the patients were on anticalciuric diuretics, and all 4 had normal urinalysis, serum creatinine and electrolyte profiles, as well as estimated creatinine clearance. In 3 of the children, evidence of mild tubular dysfunction was found. It thus seems that in some children with bone and mineral disorders who develop NC, ultrasonographic resolution of the renal calcifications can be seen; however, mild tubular dysfunction may remain and require follow-up. Further studies are suggested to explore the possible role of anticalciuric diuretics in promoting the resolution of NC.
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