Children who require renal function assessment include:
- Those with suspected kidney disease: Recurrent urinary tract infections, edema, or hypertension.
- Children with congenital anomalies: Such as vesicoureteral reflux or posterior urethral valves.
- Patients with systemic diseases: Like diabetes, lupus, or other autoimmune disorders affecting the kidneys.
- Children on nephrotoxic medications: To monitor drug-induced nephrotoxicity.
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD): For monitoring progression and therapy response.
- Pre- and post-surgical evaluation: Especially for renal surgeries or organ transplants.
Tests to Assess Renal Function in Children
- Measures creatinine, a byproduct of muscle metabolism.
- Used to estimate the glomerular filtration rate (GFR).
- Reflects protein metabolism and nitrogen excretion.
- Elevated levels may indicate reduced kidney function or dehydration.
- Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR):
- Calculated using formulas like Schwartz’s formula.
- Provides an accurate estimation of kidney function.
- Urinalysis:
- Evaluates proteinuria, hematuria, and specific gravity.
- Provides insights into tubular function and glomerular integrity.
- Serum Electrolytes:
- Measures sodium, potassium, and bicarbonate.
- Assesses tubular function and acid-base balance.
- Renal Ultrasound:
- Non-invasive imaging to detect structural abnormalities.
- Radionuclide Scans:
- DMSA or MAG3 scans for functional assessment of each kidney.
- Creatinine Clearance Test:
- Involves a timed urine collection to assess GFR directly.
- Cystatin C:
- A newer marker less influenced by muscle mass, providing accurate GFR estimates.
