Encephalopathy in young children with moderate chronic renal failure

We studied three boys who had a similar encephalopathy develop during moderate chronic renal failure. The features included cerebellar system dysfunction, seizures, and intellectual and motor retardation. Extensive laboratory investigation failed to disclose an etiology other than chronic azotemia. These cases suggest that the developing nervous system is particularly sensitive to the effects of chronic azotemia. Early dialysis and/or transplantation should be considered in such children in an attempt to modify the serious nervous system abnormalities.