Evaluation of kidney function in children

Abstract

Pediatric kidney disease prevalence has increased over the past decades.The key result of children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is end-stage renal disease (ESRD) who needs renal replacement therapy with significantly increased risk of cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome.It is essential to diagnose CKD in the early phase by assessment of kidney function.We assess the kidney function by detecting serum creatinine(SCr) and blood urea nitrogen(BUN),which are traditional biomarkers and not sensitive to diagnose AKI.We also use cystatin C and β2-microglobulin to evaluate kidney function,which are controversial in clinic.It is difficult to evaluate kidney function exactly for children because glomerular filtration rate(GFR) is different in children with different age and gender.It should be more sensitive and specific to assess pediatric kidney function by applying blood and urine biomarkers and GFR equation together.Nowadays,we should find a more precise equation to evaluate GFR for children in order to monitor the kidney disease progression.It may provide the exact timing for the treatment to prevent ESRD.Therefore,we summarize some GFR equations in order to detect more suitable equation to evaluate GFR for Chinese children with different age,gender and nutrition status. Key words: Children; Kidney function; Serum creatinine; Blood urea nitrogen; Serum cystatin C; Estimated equation of glomerular filtration rate