In October 2024, Children’s Wisconsin launched a new multidisciplinary clinic for children with kidney stone disease, bringing together pediatric urology, nephrology, nutrition, nursing and specialized services under one roof. As pediatric specialists, we are deeply invested in improving outcomes for children with this increasingly common condition. We recognized a clear need for coordinated, proactive care that addresses not just treatment, but prevention and long-term health as well.

Kidney stones do not just affect adults. Children, and especially adolescents, represent the fastest-growing demographic for kidney stone disease, with studies showing alarming increases in recurrence rates among young patients.¹ Unlike adults, children are more likely to have underlying metabolic or genetic conditions contributing to stone formation, making them vulnerable to a lifelong pattern of recurrence and intervention.²

In response, we designed our monthly kidney stone clinic to meet children where they are with a team that can both treat and prevent. Every patient is evaluated in terms of  pediatric urology and nephrology, but also receives dietary counseling and tailored education on hydration and lifestyle factors. When needed, we also involve genetic counselors and mental and behavioral health providers, ensuring families receive a holistic, personalized care plan.

In the 10 months since we opened, more than 30 children have been evaluated, many of whom required surgical intervention or preventive pharmacologic therapy. All families received in-depth education on kidney health and lifestyle guidance, and we offered several families genetic testing that ultimately helped identify rare hereditary conditions. This integration has allowed us to deliver more precise care while reducing fragmented referrals and delays.

Looking ahead, we plan to expand referral access and launch a needs assessment in collaboration with mental and behavioral health. We’re also enrolling patients into a prospective kidney stone registry and preparing for a multi-institutional study on diagnostic pathways in pediatric stone disease. Our long-term vision is to establish clinical trial capacity and lead national efforts in pediatric stone research.

At Children’s Wisconsin, we are proud to pioneer a collaborative, evidence-informed approach to a rising pediatric challenge. By integrating disciplines and embracing the full patient journey, we aim to rewrite the story of kidney stone disease in childhood and for our patients and for the field.

References

1. Tasian, G.E., et al. Kidney stone recurrence among children and adolescents.  J  Urology, 197.1 (2017): 246-252.

2. Tasian, G.E., Denburg, M.R., & Ellison, J.S. Early-onset kidney stone disease, consequences and opportunities. JAMA Pediatrics, 175.12 (2021): 1203-1204.