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Published on: June 21, 2024
Urologic Considerations in Pediatric Chronic Kidney Disease
Rebecca M Lombel1, Paul R Brakeman2, Bryan S Sack3
1Division of Pediatric Nephrology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI.
Insights
Congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) are leading causes of pediatric end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Understanding CAKUT is crucial for adult nephrologists managing these patients transitioning to adult care.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Urology
- Renal Medicine
Background:
- Pediatric end-stage renal disease (ESRD) etiology differs from adults.
- Congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) are the primary cause, affecting 30% of pediatric CKD patients.
- CAKUT often necessitates collaborative care between pediatric nephrologists and urologists.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diagnosis and management of CAKUT in pediatric patients.
- To highlight the importance of understanding CAKUT for adult nephrologists caring for transitioning patients.
- To discuss strategies for managing bladder dysfunction associated with CAKUT.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on CAKUT diagnosis, interventions, and bladder dysfunction management.
- Analysis of common CAKUT conditions encountered in pediatric nephrology and urology.
- Discussion of management decisions, including surgical interventions.
Main Results:
- Common CAKUT include antenatal hydronephrosis, obstructive uropathies (e.g., posterior urethral valves), and vesicoureteral reflux.
- CAKUT management requires coordinated care addressing voiding issues and potential surgical needs.
- Bladder dysfunction is a frequent complication requiring specific management strategies.
Conclusions:
- Adult nephrologists require enhanced understanding of pediatric CAKUT for effective patient transition and care.
- Familiarity with CAKUT diagnosis, natural history, and prognosis improves outcomes for pediatric patients entering adult healthcare systems.
- Integrated management approaches, including surgical considerations, are vital for addressing CAKUT-related complications.
Abstract:
Common causes of pediatric ESRD are distinct from those seen in the adult population. In the pediatric population, the most common are congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT), affecting approximately 30% of children with CKD. These structural anomalies often require coordinated care with the pediatric urology team to address voiding issues, bladder involvement, and the potential need for surgical intervention. For pediatric nephrologists and urologists, common CAKUT that are encountered include antenatal hydronephrosis, obstructive uropathies (eg, posterior urethral valves), and vesicoureteral reflux. As more pediatric patients with CAKUT, CKD, and ESRD transition to adult care, it is important for receiving adult nephrologists to understand the clinical presentation, natural history, and prognosis for these diagnoses. This review outlines the diagnosis and potential interventions for these conditions, including strategies to address bladder dysfunction that is often seen in children with CAKUT. A discussion of these management decisions (including surgical intervention) for CAKUT, which are quite common to pediatric nephrology and urology practices, may provide unique learning opportunities for adult nephrologists who lack familiarity with these pediatric conditions.
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