The future of pediatric nephrology

The delineation of renal disease in children dates to the 1880s with descriptions of Henoch’s purpura, bladder exstrophy, renal rickets and nephritis. The discipline of pediatric nephrology mainly emerged during the 20th century in response to problems in fluid and electrolyte balance, characterization of the nephrotic syndrome, use of renal biopsy, antibiotic therapy of urinary tract infections, dialysis and transplantation in children, growth problems associated with chronic renal failure, detection and therapy of hypertension, and the creation of both national and international pediatric nephrology societies and a journal now in its 18th year. The development of molecular and cell biology, genetic and genomic techniques and bioinformatics methods underlie many future directions. We should anticipate further elucidation of single gene disorders, of complex trait analysis of disorders, such as diabetic nephropathy and hypertension, the interplay of developmental genes and gene products and interactions within the podocyte. Specific therapies directed against inflammation, vascular damage, cyst development, the ravages of proteinuria and graft rejection (or induction leading to tolerance) will be developed. Stem cell therapies may replace lost renal mass, even of specific nephron sites. Novel therapies will also modulate the cell cycle, tyrosine kinase signaling and apoptosis. In addition, drugs will be specifically tested in children for many renal conditions. Larger and more specialized registries will be developed; epidemiologic studies and exploration of large data sets will lead to clinical guidelines that are evidenced-based. There is a need for more careful measurement of glomerular filtration rate (GFR), proteinuria and cytokines, and a fuller appreciation of the nutritional and hormonal role of the kidney. Finally, the antecedents of adult renal disease and the need to intervene in a proactive fashion will be realized. Despite these impressive advances in care, the greatest challenges will be in providing children with renal disease access to well-trained pediatric nephrologists, especially in Asia (1 billion children), Africa, Central and South America, and in immigrant and refugee populations. Included in this challenge is the capacity to have affordable access to use of contemporary techniques, and effective medications and prevention strategies. The International Pediatric Nephrology Association (IPNA), its journal, and pediatric advocates will need to use their energies to take on these challenges.