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Condition

Pediatric Kidney Disease

Key Points About Kidney Disease in Children

  • Kidney disease (renal failure) is short-term or permanent damage to the kidneys that results in loss of normal kidney function. There are two different types.
  • Acute kidney disease starts suddenly. In some cases, it may be reversed and the kidneys can work normally again.
  • Chronic kidney disease gets worse slowly over at least three months. It can lead to permanent kidney failure.
  • Kidney disease has many possible causes, such as blood loss, medicines, urinary blockage, genetic disease or infections.
  • Treatment may include changes in diet, medicines, dialysis or surgery.
  • Because the kidneys have many functions, kidney failure can affect many body systems.

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Frequently Asked Questions

 

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Kidney Treatment at Children's National Hospital

The pediatric specialists in our nationally ranked nephrology program work to manage the full range of kidney diseases in children, including dialysis and kidney transplantation. Discover more about the treatments we offer.

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Help Kids and Make a Difference

Invest in future cures for some of life's most devastating diseases. Give today to help more children grow up stronger.

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Providers Who Treat Kidney Disease

Departments that Treat Kidney Disease

    Kidney Transplantation

    The Kidney Transplantation Program is the only one of its kind in the Washington, D.C., area focused on the needs of children and teens with kidney disease. Additionally, it is the region's only Medicare-approved center for kidney transplants in children and teens.