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Paediatric nephrology
Your child’s health, in safe hands
- No.1 - the only private hospital in the UK for women and children
- More than 40,000 babies and children cared for every year
- 9 level 3 intensive care beds for the highest level of care
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Paediatric nephrology at HCA UK
Why choose us?
Our paediatric nephrology specialists diagnose and treat a wide range of urinary and kidney problems in children, from mild urinary tract infections to complex kidney disease.
We provide personalised care using the latest diagnostics and treatments to help children of all ages, from babies to teenagers, feel better and stay well. With expert consultants, paediatric urologists, and child-focused support, we make every aspect of care as comfortable as possible for you and your child.
Paediatric nephrology is the diagnosis and treatment of kidney disease and urinary tract conditions in children. At HCA UK, our paediatric nephrologists work closely with paediatric urologists and other specialists as part of a multidisciplinary team to offer effective care at every stage and in even the most complex of cases. That means expert diagnosis, pioneering treatment and ongoing support for your child.
Our paediatric nephrology team manages a wide range of kidney and urinary tract conditions in children, including:
- Acute kidney injury
- Urinary tract infection (UTI) and pyelonephritis
- Nephrotic syndrome
- High blood pressure
- Haematuria and/or proteinuria
- Chronic kidney disease
- Hydronephrosis
- Glomerulonephritis (including Henoch–Schönlein purpura (HSP))
- Vasculitis (including lupus nephritis)
- Congenital kidney syndromes and associated conditions
We manage renal conditions for both inpatients and outpatients. For inpatients, we can also provide renal replacement therapy in the form of continuous veno-venous haemofiltration (CVVH), when required.
We’ll start the diagnosis with simple urine and blood tests, which help us to assess your child’s kidney function and identify signs of infection or inflammation.
If necessary, we will also use imaging, particularly ultrasound, to look at the kidneys and urinary tract in more detail. At The Portland Hospital, we’re able to carry out many of these tests on the same day, helping families get answers quickly and confidently.
We also offer nuclear medicine imaging of the urinary tract, including DMSA and MCUG studies. When required, we can perform renal biopsies on-site as day case procedures.
The suggested course of treatment for kidney conditions, including kidney disease in children, will depend on your child’s specific condition, but options can include:
- Specialist dietary advice
- Medications (with access to specialist renal medications)
- Monitoring and regular follow-up
- Surgery if required
When required, we’re able to bring in experts from across the HCA UK network, including paediatric urologists, dietitians and transplant teams to ensure the most effective and holistic care.
Fast access to specialists
Appointments confirmed within 24 hours
State-of-the-art diagnostics
With results in as little as 48 hours
Treatments for complex conditions
We focus our breadth of expertise on your child
Specialist support for every aspect of your child’s care
Our paediatric nephrology services go beyond diagnosis and treatment. From occupational therapy and diet to advanced imaging tests, your child has access to a huge wealth of expertise, and a team working together to support their health, comfort and recovery.
Paediatric occupational therapy
Paediatric occupational therapy (OT) helps children of all ages who are experiencing physical, sensory, or cognitive difficulties. OTs purpose is to help children engage in the activities of daily life, such as play, personal care skills and school skills. OT aims to promote and improve overall health, wellbeing, and participation at home, at school and the larger community.
Paediatric interventional radiology
Paediatric interventional radiology is a department that uses live images, such as X-rays and ultrasound, to diagnose and carry out minimally invasive procedures on children for greater accuracy.
Paediatric dietetics
Expert advice for your child on diet and nutrition, including how diet can help with a wide range of conditions including diabetes, allergies and developmental issues.
Accessing private healthcare
Self-pay
You don’t need health insurance for your child to be seen quickly. If you’re looking for a diagnosis or treatment and don’t want to wait, all of our private healthcare services – from private GP appointments through to surgery and aftercare – can be paid for as and when you need them.
And we’ll give you a clear and transparent quote from the start, outlining exactly what’s included in your self-pay package.
The process
What to expect
We understand that it can be overwhelming when a child’s unwell. That’s why we aim to make every step of the journey clear, supportive, and centred on your child’s needs. From the first appointment to diagnosis and treatment, our team is here to guide and reassure you throughout.
If you have any questions not answered here, feel free to get in touch. We’ll try to help in whatever way we can.
01
Initial consultation
The first step will be an appointment with one of our expert paediatric nephrologists. They’ll take the time to understand your child’s medical history, symptoms, and any concerns you may have. This is also an opportunity to ask questions and explore next steps.
02
Relevant tests
To help us form a complete picture, your consultant may recommend some initial tests – commonly blood tests, urine analysis and, in some instances, an ultrasound scan. These investigations are carried out on-site, often on the same day, in a child-friendly setting designed to put young patients – and their parents – at ease.
03
Review of results
Once the results are back, your consultant will review them carefully, alongside a wider, multidisciplinary team including radiologists and lab specialists. This collaborative approach ensures we get an accurate diagnosis and can work with you to plan the next steps quickly and effectively.
04
Follow-up consultation
Your consultant will meet with you again to explain the results in detail and talk through any diagnosis. This conversation will include plenty of time for questions and reassurance, so you feel confident and informed about what comes next.
05
Personalised treatment plan
If treatment is needed, we’ll tailor a plan specifically to your child’s needs. This can include medication, dietary support, monitoring, or onward referral to related services such as paediatric urology or occupational therapy. Throughout the process, you’ll have access to a multidisciplinary team dedicated to delivering expert, compassionate care and support for your child and your family.
Take a tour of The Portland Hospital
Take a whistle-stop tour of The Portland Hospital with Abigail and Hannah as they embark on a treasure hunt that sees them visit the different departments to see exactly what they offer.
Paediatric nephrology FAQs
Many kidney conditions can be managed very effectively, especially when identified early. Some may resolve on their own, while others require long-term monitoring or treatment. Our goal is always to support your child’s health and quality of life, with a plan tailored to their needs.
Yes, in most cases we ask for a referral from your GP or our HCA UK Primary Care team. This helps us to make sure we have the right background information and can coordinate your child’s care effectively from the moment they’re in our care.
Some of the main symptoms to look out for include:
- Blood in the urine
- Frequent or painful urination
- Loin/lower back pain or pelvic pain
- High blood pressure
- Poor growth
- Recurrent UTIs
- Swelling around the eyes or ankles
- Unexplained tiredness
If you're concerned, speak to your GP or get in touch with our Primary Care team.
We aim to make every visit as comfortable as possible. It can help to explain to your child why they’re seeing a doctor and what might happen – for example, if they have to give a urine sample or have a scan.
Bringing a favourite toy or book can also make them feel more comfortable. If any special preparations are needed, we’ll let you know well in advance.
We understand how challenging long-term health conditions can be for families. That’s why our team includes not just medical experts, but also dietitians, psychologists and specialist nurses who can provide practical advice, emotional support and education tailored to your child’s specific set of circumstances.
We take a collaborative approach to care. Your child’s nephrologist will work closely with other paediatric specialists, including urologists, rheumatologists, dietitians and occupational therapists to ensure every aspect of their care is covered and aligned. We also keep in close contact with your GP or referring clinician, so that they’re aware of what’s happening at every stage.
You can find us at:
The Portland Hospital
205-209 Great Portland Street
London W1W 5AH
Pick-up and drop-off options: Visitors can pick up and drop off patients at the main entrance. No parking is allowed as the driveway is for emergency vehicle access.
Local parking: There’s no on-site parking and street parking isn’t permitted on a single yellow line between Monday and Saturday, from 8.30am to 6.30pm. However, national and private car parks are available nearby. Please contact the admissions team if you need help finding a local car park near the hospital.
Disabled parking: Westminster Council operates a small number of disabled parking bays near the hospital, available to Blue Badge holders for up to four hours. The nearest one is on the corner of Bolsover Street, next to Tesco Express.
Local parking: There’s no on-site parking and street parking isn’t permitted on a single yellow line between Monday and Saturday, from 8.30am to 6.30pm. However, national and private car parks are available nearby. Please contact the admissions team if you need help finding a local car park near the hospital.
Disabled parking: Westminster Council operates a small number of disabled parking bays near the hospital, available to Blue Badge holders for up to four hours. The nearest one is on the corner of Bolsover Street, next to Tesco Express.
We have open visiting at The Portland Hospital. However, we recommend that visitors leave by 10pm. If your child’s staying overnight, this gives both parents and child the chance to settle for the night. Should you wish to stay overnight with your child, we can provide you with a bed for one parent.
Our patients' stories
Jack's Spinal Scoliosis story
Jack’s mother Jaime noticed his shoulder blades were slightly uneven in March 2020, at the start of the UK COVID-19 lockdown. After being faced with a long wait for a referral, a chance recommendation led Jaime to turn to The Portland Hospital. Here Jaime shares their story and explain why this surgery was so important.
Bode's successful spinal surgery at just 14
Bode's (14) surgery fitted her with one titanium and one cobalt chrome rod on either side of her spine held in place by 18 screws. Comparing the before and after X-Rays, they managed to make her spine perfectly straight which Bode says, "was incredible.” She’s now reassuring other young patients with Idiopathic Adolescent Scoliosis.
Rhiannon’s courage: Recovering after scoliosis surgery
Rhiannon was an active 14-year-old girl. When she occasionally complained to her parents about aches and pains in her back, there was no reason to think it was anything more sinister than sore muscles from one of her dance classes, or something she’d pulled while horse riding.
“The facilities are modern and child-friendly, and overall it feels like a safe and supportive place for families. We’ve had a positive experience during each visit.”
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.