Ultrasound Localization Microscopy in Patient With Congenital Anomalies of the Kidney and Urinary Tract (CAKUT)
This study is for young children, from 1 month to 6 years old, who were born with problems in their kidneys or urinary system. Doctors are trying a new way of using ultrasound, called Ultrasound Localization Microscopy (ULM), along with a special contrast liquid. This helps them see the very tiny blood vessels and structures in the kidneys much more clearly than a regular ultrasound. The goal is to get a better picture of how well the kidneys are working and identify any damage caused by blockages. This could help doctors manage these conditions more effectively and hopefully improve long-term health for children with these kidney issues.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is looking at children who were born with problems in their kidneys or the tubes that carry urine, known as the urinary tract. These conditions, sometimes called CAKUT, can affect how well the kidneys work and can lead to serious health issues over time, including the need for dialysis.
At the moment, doctors often use a scan called MAG-3 scintigraphy to check how well the kidneys are draining, but this is not always accurate for very young children. This study aims to find a new, non-invasive (meaning it doesn't involve surgery or needles, other than for a small injection for the scan) way to look at the kidneys in much greater detail. They're using a special type of ultrasound called Ultrasound Localization Microscopy (ULM), combined with a safe contrast liquid that helps highlight blood vessels.
By using this advanced ultrasound technique, doctors hope to see the tiny blood vessels and filtering units (called glomeruli) within the kidneys. This could help them understand how much damage, if any, is being caused by blockages and how functional the kidneys are. This improved understanding could lead to better ways to predict and manage kidney problems in children with these conditions in the future.
Key takeaways
- The study uses a new, detailed ultrasound with contrast to look at young children's kidneys.
- It aims to understand kidney health better in children born with kidney or urinary tract problems.
- The goal is to see tiny blood vessels and structures inside the kidney more clearly.
- This research could help improve how doctors manage difficult kidney conditions in the future.
- Participation involves one special ultrasound scan during a routine hospital visit.
Who may be eligible?
This study is specifically looking for children between 1 month and 6 years old.
To join, a child must have received a diagnosis of a kidney or urinary tract birth defect that causes a blockage. They also need to be scheduled for a specific kidney test called a MAG-3 scintigraphy, which helps doctors understand kidney function.
Both parents or legal guardians must agree for their child to take part in the study. The doctors performing the special ultrasound must also be qualified to do so.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Is my child between 1 month and 6 years old?
- Does my child have a birth defect affecting their kidneys or urinary tract that causes a blockage?
- Is my child already scheduled for a MAG-3 kidney scan?
- Am I, as a parent or legal guardian, willing to give consent for my child to participate?
What does participation involve?
If your child takes part in this study, they will have a special ultrasound scan called Ultrasound Localization Microscopy (ULM) with contrast. This involves a small injection of a safe liquid to help the ultrasound see things more clearly. This scan will likely be performed at the same time as their planned MAG-3 scintigraphy or other routine hospital visits. The study will mainly involve analyzing these imaging results. You will be given more specific details about the number of visits and the total duration, but it is expected to align with existing medical appointments.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- FAU Erlangen-Nuernberg,Verified postcodeErlangen, Germany· Recruiting
Common questions
What is CAKUT?
CAKUT stands for Congenital Anomalies of the Kidney and Urinary Tract. These are birth defects that affect how a baby's kidneys or urinary system develops.
What is special about this ultrasound?
This special ultrasound, called ULM, uses a safe liquid to see very tiny blood vessels and structures in the kidney, much more closely than a regular ultrasound.
Will my child need more injections?
Yes, your child will receive one small injection of a contrast liquid during the special ultrasound to help highlight the kidney's blood flow.
Will this study cure my child's kidney problem?
No, this study is not a treatment or a cure. It's designed to gather more detailed information about your child's condition to help doctors understand and manage it better in the future.
How long will my child be in the study?
The study involves performing a special ultrasound, likely during a visit they already have planned for an existing kidney test. The specific duration of follow-up will be explained by the study team.
How to find out more
Regensburger Regensburger, PD Dr. med. Dr. rer. biol. Hum
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.