Nephrology Clinic

Diseases and treatments can affect how well the kidneys work. Nephrology is the diagnosis and treatment of medical issues related to the kidneys.

The Nephrology Clinic at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital helps patients keep and restore their kidney (renal) function. If this cannot be done, the clinic can help keep kidneys working as long as possible. They can also replace kidney function with treatments such as dialysis or filtration.

The kidneys are a pair of organs located back of the abdomen (belly). Kidneys serve important functions such as:

• Clearing waste
• Removing extra water
• Removing toxins
• Balancing levels of important chemicals
• Controlling blood pressure
• Controlling the number of red blood cells that carry oxygen around the body

Good kidney function is critical for your child’s health.

Services we provide

The Nephrology Clinic team treats children with cancer and other conditions that affect the kidneys, such as infections and sickle cell disease.

Services provided include:

• Diagnostic studies
• Treatment of kidney disorders
• Blood pressure monitoring and control
• Care for poorly functioning kidneys and chronic kidney disease
• Kidney function replacement (dialysis and filtration)

Your Nephrology Clinic team

The St. Jude Nephrology Clinic has doctors who are experts in treating kidney problems. These providers have many years of experience and have treated many patients.

During your visit, your child may see these health care providers:

• Pediatric nephrologist: A doctor who specializes in kidney problems
• Nurse practitioner: A provider who has special training to help diagnose, treat, and manage diseases

What to expect during your visit

At your appointment, you will answer questions about any symptoms or problems your child has with their kidneys.

The doctor will:

• Use this medical information, results of laboratory tests, and notes from other doctors to understand your child’s kidney problems.
• Explain how your child’s disease or treatments affect kidney function.
• Tell you if your child needs more tests and explain their treatment.

Learn more

The Nephrology Clinic is part of the Hematology Clinic, located on the 3rd floor of the St. Jude Patient Care Center (PCC). Patients can also visit the subspecialty clinic on the PCC’s first floor on most Thursdays.