Reasons for Kidney Transplant

The most common reasons for kidney transplantation in children are:

  • Urological disorders (PUV, Obstructive uropathy, VUR, Prune belly)
  • Congenital/Hereditary renal anomalies, (polycystic kidney disease, Alports, congentital nephritic syndrome, cystinosis, oxaluria)
  • Glomerulnephritis (post infectious GN, HUS, HSP, Nephropathy)
  • Other autoimmune diseases and tumors

Most kidney diseases can be managed but when a child’s kidney no longer functions, transplantation is the best option. Children are often started on dialysis (Hemodialysis or Peritoneal dialysis while waiting for a kidney transplant.

The goal of a kidney transplant is to maximize survival and improve quality of life.

Lifespan of a new kidney

The life expectancy of each transplanted kidney varies, but it is likely that most children will require a second transplant at some point in their adult lives.