Averting the Legacy of Kidney Disease - Focus on Childhood

Julie R Ingelfinger1, Kamyar Kalantar-Zadeh, Franz Schaefer

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass., USA.

Nephron
|March 2, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Kidney disease in childhood, often stemming from congenital issues, can lead to adult chronic kidney disease (CKD). Early detection and treatment, alongside equitable access to care, are crucial for managing pediatric kidney conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Nephrology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Kidney disease in childhood presents unique challenges, differing significantly from adult presentations.
  • Congenital anomalies and inherited disorders are primary causes in children, unlike glomerulopathies or diabetes-related kidney issues common in adults.
  • Acute kidney injury in children can lead to long-term sequelae, including hypertension and chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the significance of kidney disease in childhood and its role as a precursor to adult kidney disease.
  • To emphasize the importance of early identification and intervention for at-risk newborns and children.
  • To advocate for equitable access to effective treatment for all children with kidney disease, regardless of location or economic status.

Main Methods:

  • The abstract synthesizes current knowledge and expert opinion on pediatric kidney disease.
  • It reviews the unique etiological factors and long-term implications of kidney conditions in children.
  • It addresses therapeutic options, including kidney replacement therapy, and disparities in healthcare access.

Main Results:

  • Congenital anomalies and inherited disorders are the leading causes of CKD in children.
  • Premature birth and low birth weight are associated with an increased risk of developing CKD later in life.
  • Children often have better outcomes with kidney replacement therapy than adults, though it's required for a minority.

Conclusions:

  • Early detection and timely intervention are critical for preventing or managing pediatric kidney disease and its progression to adult CKD.
  • Addressing disparities in access to care is essential to ensure effective treatment for all children.
  • Raising public, policymaker, and caregiver awareness is vital for improving outcomes in childhood kidney disease.

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