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Although treatment for kidney failure is basically the same in children and adults, the causes of kidney failure, potential complications and special needs are unique in children. The most common causes of kidney failure in younger children are malformed kidneys and urinary system obstruction or blockage. Chronic glomerulonephritis is the most common cause of kidney failure in older children and adolescents. Glomerulonephritis is a disease caused by inflammation of the glomeruli which are the filters of the kidney.
Both peritoneal and hemodialysis may be started at any age, however different factors are considered in the choice of treatment modality in a child. The child's age and wishes, if old enough, as well as the parents' desires and abilities will be considered in the decision. In adults, both peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis have advantages and disadvantages. Basically they are the same in children. Peritoneal dialysis is usually the modality of choice for children since it may be less technically and psychologically difficult for the child. Peritoneal dialysis can be performed at home by the parents or other adults on the infant or younger child. An older child or adolescent may be able to perform their own treatments. Hemodialysis treatments may also be done at home or at a dialysis facility.
A kidney transplant should always be considered in children. Transplantation in children can greatly reduce and even reverse some of the complications which occur in adults such as high blood pressure, anemia, heart and bond disease, unique complications of renal failure occur in children. these include: failure to thrive in infants, reduced growth rates, delayed puberty and infertility. Careful attention to diet and administration of growth hormones can help minimize these complications.
 Careful attention must also be given to the psychosocial development of the child. Fear, depression, and the feeling of being different from other children can lead to isolation. While there may be times when the child is too sick to attend school, the child should not be allowed to use kidney failure as an excuse to continually miss school or avoid doing homework. It is important for the child to remain involved in activities he or she enjoyed prior to kidney failure. Peer support from other children and parents affected by kidney disease can provide help with coping. Patient organizations, as listed in this booklet, can provide information and support beneficial to both patients and family members. Summer camps are available to children with renal failure (click on the image-link below to read about one such camp). Coping with a child's chronic illness is very difficult for both the child and the family. Your healthcare team and patient organizations are always available for support and assistance.
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