Do you know about Renal Tubular Acidosis?

Renal Tubular Acidosis is a kidney disorder that happens when your kidneys are not able to flush out acid through urine. This leads to the build-up of excess acid in the blood. The disease can affect anyone at any age but is usually observed in children. If left untreated, the condition may lead to several complications, such as retarded growth, chronic kidney disease, bone disease, kidney stones, even kidney failure.

Causes and Types of Renal Tubular Acidosis

The different types of renal tubule acidosis are as follows –

• Distal RTA (Type 1) – This is the most common of all types. The condition occurs when the defect is comparatively distant from the point where fluid from the blood enters the tubule, which collects wastes and fluid to form urine. Distal RTA can be genetic or caused due to having high amounts of calcium in the blood, sickle cell disease, or autoimmune diseases, like Sjorgen syndrome and lupus.

• Proximal RTA (Type 2) – Proximal RTA occurs when the defect is comparatively closer to the point where wastes and fluids from the blood enter the tubule. It is typically seen in newborns and is usually related to the Fanconi's syndrome. Besides, fructose intolerance, a deficiency of vitamin D, and the use of certain medications and drugs can also cause this condition.

• RTA (Types 3) – This is a union of Proximal RTA and Distal RTA. It is no longer used as a classification.

• Hyperkalemic RTA – This condition occurs due to a transport disorder within the distal tubule. Transport refers to the motion of electrolytes like potassium, chloride, and sodium between your blood and parts of the body. An interruption in this process can lead to the accumulation of excess potassium in the blood – a condition known as hyperkalemia. This, in turn, can pose a threat to your heart and other organs.

Signs and symptoms of RTA

The signs and symptoms of Renal Tubular Acidosis typically common to children include –

• Painful urination

• Back or side pain that radiates to the lower portion of your abdomen

• Reddish-brown, cloudy urine

• Frequent urination

• Vomiting and nausea

• Fatigue, confusion, or decreased alertness

• Rapid breathing and faster heart rates

• Decreased urination

• Muscle weakness and cramps

• Ricket

In due course, the condition can affect bone development and the child’s ability to grow. This is when the doctor may suspect Renal Tubular Acidosis in the first place.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Blood or urine test can confirm the diagnosis for Renal Tubular Acidosis.

Treatment primarily involves medications that work to keep the levels of acid and base in urine in check. The goal is to normalize the bicarbonate levels in the blood.

In most cases, medications can effectively treat RTA. Children who have RTA resulting from a genetic defect may have to undergo treatment for the rest of their lives. However, following treatment can help them stay healthy and prevent the risk of complications.