Nephrology
Nephrology is the branch of medicine that focuses on the kidneys. A nephrologist is able to evaluate proper kidney function, identify and treat kidney disease and care for you if you have kidney cancer.
Pediatric nephrologists in Denver
We help make sure your child's body can maintain and process the nutrients they need to grow.
The children's nephrologists at HCA HealthONE Rocky Mountain Children's at Presbyterian St. Luke's work with you and your child to create effective care plans for a variety of kidney diseases and disorders. Our pediatric care team ensures you understand your child’s diagnosis and treatment options, keeping you informed every step of the way.
Expert advice, available 24/7
Free health-related advice is just a phone call away. Our nurses help you understand your symptoms, treatment options and procedures. They will also help you find a provider or specialist and schedule an appointment.
Free health-related advice is just a phone call away. Our nurses help you understand your symptoms, treatment options and procedures. They will also help you find a provider or specialist and schedule an appointment.
Pediatric kidney disorders we treat
Kidneys are vital organs that control blood pressure, keep bones strong, regulate fluid and electrolytes and just keep the body healthy in general. So kidney health is especially important for children. It's our goal to make sure your child's system is operating at peak condition, so we diagnose and treat many kidney conditions, including:
- Alport syndrome
- Bartter syndrome
- Chronic kidney disease
- Cystinosis
- Fanconi syndrome
- Gitelman syndrome
- Hematuria
- Hemolytic uremic syndrome
- Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis
- Hypercalciuria
- Hypertension
- IgA nephropathy
- Kidney failure
- Kidney stones
- Lupus nephritis
- Nephrotic syndrome
- Oxalosis
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Post-infectious glomerulonephritis
- Proteinuria
- Renal tubular acidosis
Pediatric kidney care we offer
Proper nephrology care begins with a diagnosis, and our pediatric kidney specialists work with you and your child to run the right tests so that a personalized treatment plan can be made.
Kidney testing and diagnosis
If your child’s pediatric nephrologist suspects they may have a kidney disease, some diagnostic tests may be ordered. As needed, one or more of the following tests may be ordered:
- Computerized tomography (CT) scan — This procedure uses X-rays and computer technology to show detailed images of the body.
- Kidney biopsy — After removing a small piece of kidney tissue with a needle, tests are performed to determine what type of disorder may be present.
- Renal nuclear scan — A small, safe amount of radioactive material is injected into a vein, and a scan is taken to give a clear picture of the shape, size and function of the kidneys.
- Ultrasound (sonography) — This test uses sound waves and computer technology to create pictures of the organs, tissues and blood vessels.
- Urinalysis — A laboratory test is performed to examine a sample of your child’s urine.
- Voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) — A dye is placed into the bladder and observed while the patient is urinating to determine whether there is a reflux of urine from the bladder into the kidneys.
- X-ray — This test uses electromagnetic energy beams to create images.
Kidney disorder treatments
To begin treatment, our pediatric kidney specialists will work with you and your child to complete an in-depth evaluation and create an individualized treatment plan. This treatment plan will encompass all of your child’s needs and provide detailed information to educate you on their recovery plan.
Your child’s kidney disease treatment may include:
- Antibiotics
- Blood pressure medications
- Dialysis
- Diuretics or water pills
- Medications for bone health
- Medications to prevent kidney stones
- Medications to suppress the immune system