At your child's pre-kidney transplant exam, they'll need many tests.
These tests will let the transplant team learn about your child's:
- Basic health.
- Blood and tissue types.
- Immune system.
- Renal system.
To learn more, call the kidney transplant team at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh at 412-692-5182.
Your child's testing may differ from others since each child's health history is unique.
Learn about some tests your child may need — and why.
A Physical Exam
Your transplant team will fully assess your child's health, checking them from head to toe.
Pre-kidney Transplant Blood Tests
We take blood for many reasons.
Blood tests help us:
- Assess your child's overall health.
- Learn their blood type.
- Find any infections or other health issues.
- Reveal antibodies in your child's immune system. The immune system affects how the body accepts or rejects a transplanted organ.
Imaging Tests
Many children with kidney disease have other health issues that are causing the kidneys to fail.
Your child may need imaging tests such as ultrasounds and x-rays to:
- Check inside the body for any other issues the transplant team should be aware of.
- Find good blood vessels where the surgeon can attach your child's transplanted kidney.
Pre-kidney Transplant Mental Health Support
The time leading up to a kidney transplant is stressful for you and your child.
Our team will make sure you're both ready for the challenges the transplant journey can bring.
After your pre-kidney transplant visit, your child will have more tests as needed until the surgery.
