| Theme | Certification system for dialysis specialists ; its present status and future in Japan | |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Necessity of specialist in pediatric dialysis | |
| Publish Date | 2014/06 | |
| Author | Takuya Fujimaru | Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, St. Luke's International Hospital |
| Author | Yasuhiro Komatsu | Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, St. Luke's International Hospital |
| [ Summary ] | Although the number of pediatric patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) is far smaller compared to that of adult, providing appropriate care for them is very important. Multiple distinctive characteristic of pediatric ESRD patients demands the specialist who has profound knowledge, skill, and experience in both pediatrics and nephrology. The causes of ESRD of children are different from those of adult； peritoneal dialysis is most common dialysis modality for children ; consideration for physical, psychological, and social development is required； special technical expertise is required for pediatric dialysis patients. From these reasons, general pediatrician alone cannot take care of these patients since they lack the expertise in dialysis ; adult nephrologist alone cannot take care of them either, because they have difficulty in managing pediatric care. In this article, we outline the etiology and characteristics of pediatric ESRD, and discuss the issues on training and qualification of pediatric nephrology/dialysis specialist. | |