Various types of kidney aplasia and agenesis are hereditary pathologies that develop as a result of disruption in organ formation during fetal development. While agenesis refers to the complete absence of the organ, aplasia denotes severe underdevelopment of the renal parenchyma, where the affected kidney is represented merely by a fragment of fibrous tissue with a few nephrons. Treatment of kidney aplasia (kidney agenesis) in Israel is conducted only based on indications, using modern methods and medications. Timely adequate therapy in 95% of cases ensures a favorable prognosis and restores the impaired functions of the urinary system.
To establish an effective treatment plan, a correct diagnosis must be made, for which the patient is referred for medical examinations and comprehensive testing. The high-precision modern equipment of Israeli diagnostic centers allows for the identification of pathologies, description of the characteristic features of the structure and functioning of the patient's urinary system, and assessment of their overall condition. Additionally, differential diagnosis of the pathology with a number of other kidney diseases is carried out in the shortest possible time. Patient reviews indicate the high quality of treatment provided, emphasize its reasonable cost, and the comfortable conditions of stay in the clinic.
Treatment Methods for the Disease
Among other developmental anomalies, kidney malformations, including aplasia and agenesis, occupy one of the leading positions. They account for about 40% of all congenital malformations, with the pathologies being more common among boys. The issue of kidney developmental anomalies remains relevant in pediatrics due to their high prevalence and the vital importance of blood filtration and the elimination of metabolic waste, functions for which the kidneys are responsible.
The following causes of the pathology are identified:
- hereditary predisposition;
- the mother contracting certain infectious diseases, particularly influenza and rubella, in the early months of pregnancy;
- exposure to chemical toxins;
- exposure to ionizing radiation;
- consumption of alcohol or drugs;
- uncontrolled use of hormonal contraceptives;
- endocrine disorders (diabetes mellitus).
Kidney aplasia (agenesis) can be unilateral or bilateral (agenesis), where, as a rule, intrauterine fetal death is diagnosed, or after birth, the child develops renal failure, living from 1-2 hours to several days. In the case of absence or severe underdevelopment of one kidney, its functions are successfully performed by the other, and the patient does not experience any deterioration in well-being.
Before the development of the pathological process in the healthy kidney, the patient does not exhibit clinical symptoms. The most common sign of kidney aplasia is oliguria — a significant reduction in urine volume, up to its complete absence. Suspicions of pathology arise when the patient develops unilateral renal colic due to urolithiasis or other kidney diseases, accompanied by anuria.
Since the healthy kidney takes on all functions, treatment is only required in the case of developing a pathological process in it. If medication treatment for any disease is necessary, the patient is prescribed, whenever possible, medications that are not excreted by the kidneys and avoids using nephrotoxic agents.
In cases of right kidney aplasia (agenesis), symptomatic treatment is only prescribed in cases of prolonged renal hypertension or reflux of urine from the ureter into the kidney. Such patients are indicated for lifelong use of antihypertensive medications and diuretics. Almost all patients are given a positive prognosis. With adherence to a gentle diet and prevention of kidney diseases, they can lead a full active life.
Left kidney aplasia (agenesis) is more pronounced in men, accompanied by prolonged pain in the sacral and groin areas, decreased sexual activity, up to erectile dysfunction and infertility. With normal functioning of the right kidney, symptomatic treatment is prescribed. Additionally, prevention of bacterial infections leading to the development of pyelonephritis and other urological pathologies is indicated. The patient should regularly undergo urological examinations and the tests prescribed by the urologist (laboratory tests of urine and blood, ultrasound examination).
Throughout their lives, patients with kidney aplasia (agenesis) must adhere to a gentle diet, strengthen their immune system, and prevent infections from bacteria and viruses.
Diagnostic Methods for the Disease
Prenatal diagnosis of the pathology is possible, starting from the 13th-16th week of pregnancy. Suspicions of a malformation arise when the absence of kidney formation and the absence of the bladder are detected. After the birth of a child with bilateral impairment, symptoms such as polyuria, dehydration, vomiting, elevated blood pressure, and renal failure are observed.
To confirm the anomalies of organ development, instrumental examinations must be conducted, which take no more than three days in Israeli clinics.
During the initial consultation, which takes place after the patient is admitted to the medical center, the leading pediatric urologist examines the patient, asks the parents about the symptoms exhibited by the child, the course of the pregnancy, the identification of similar developmental malformations in relatives, and the presence of a history of certain diseases. The appointment concludes with a list of required examinations.
The next day, the prescribed diagnostic examinations are performed:
- laboratory tests of urine and blood;
- ultrasound examination (US) of the kidneys;
- imaging studies (CT, MRI);
- excretory urography (a radiological method for examining the kidneys);
- Doppler ultrasound of the renal vessels.
The results of the studies are submitted for review by a medical council, which, along with the urologist, includes specialized experts. After analyzing the obtained data, the doctors collectively establish a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.
How Much Does Treatment Cost
Among the questions most relevant to medical tourists, the cost of therapy and its accessibility is always a concern. Undergoing treatment in Israeli clinics allows patients to save approximately 30% of the amount required in Western European countries and is about 50% cheaper than in the USA.
Advantages of Treatment in Israel
- World-class qualifications and extensive experience of doctors.
- Availability of modern therapeutic and diagnostic equipment.
- Use of the latest generation medications and progressive treatment methods.
- Rapid accurate diagnosis using high-tech equipment.
- Affordable prices.
Accurate diagnosis and undergoing adequate therapy ensure a positive prognosis and allow the patient to lead a normal active life. By promptly contacting an Israeli clinic, you will preserve your child's health, receive a recovery program, and recommendations for the coming years.