Did You Know? Bartter Syndrome is an inherited condition
Bartter Syndrome Affects 1 in 1,000,000
Bartter syndrome is a group of rare conditions that affect the kidneys. There are five gene defects known to be associated with Bartter syndrome. The condition is caused by a defect in the kidneys' ability to reabsorb sodium. Those affected by Bartter syndrome lose too much sodium through the urine. This causes a rise in the level of the hormone aldosterone and makes the kidneys remove too much potassium from the body. Also, the condition results in abnormal acid balance in the blood, which causes too much calcium in the urine.
This resource will provide education on the symptoms, complications and treatment options for Bartter Syndrome.
01 | Symptoms
Patients may have symptoms in the first two years of life, but they are usually diagnosed at school age or later. In addition to dehydration, common symptoms include:
02 | Complications
In addition to secondary conditions resulting from Bartter Syndrome symptoms, kidney failure is a possible complication.
03 | Treatment Options
There is no cure for Bartter Syndrome. Common treatment options consist of supplements to replace what is lost and medications to prevent urinary wasting of potassium and magnesium. In younger children growth hormone may be used to prevent the short stature and anti-inflammatory agents to decrease the elevated inflammatory levels. Common medications and supplements used to treat Bartter Syndrome include:
Although, Bartter Syndrome is a rare condition, there are numerous resources and support groups. For more information on Bartter Syndrome visit: http://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/bartters-syndrome/
References
https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000308.htm
http://www.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/bartter-syndrome/overview.html
http://barttersite.org/what-is-bartters-syndrome/
