Pattern and outcome of renal diseases in hospitalized children, Tigray, Ethiopia

Background Childhood renal diseases are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, but data from developing countries like Ethiopia remain limited. Objectives This study aimed to describe the patterns and outcomes of renal diseases in children admitted to Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (ACSH) in Tigray, Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 223 children aged 1 month to 17 years, who were admitted to the pediatric wards and intensive care unit (ICU) of ACSH from December 2017 to July 2020. Data were collected using a standardized tool, and consecutive sampling included all pediatric patients with renal disease and complete records. Descriptive statistics were performed using STATA 16.0, with categorical variables described using frequencies and percentages, and continuous variables using measures of central tendency and dispersion. Results Out of 8,407 pediatric admissions during the study period, 280 (3.3%) were due to renal disease. Among the 223 children with complete data, the male-to-female ratio was 2:1, and the mean age at presentation was 8.0 ± 5.2 years. Fifty-seven patients were excluded due to missing or incomplete records. Acute glomerulonephritis was the most common renal disease, affecting 122 children (54.7%), followed by nephrotic syndrome in 56 children (25.1%) and acute kidney injury in 54 children (24.2%). Conclusions By the end of the study, 143 patients (64.1%) had recovered normal renal function, 23 (10.3%) progressed to chronic kidney disease, and 15 (6.7%) died. Acute glomerulonephritis was identified as the leading cause of renal disease, followed by nephrotic syndrome and acute kidney injury. Although most patients recovered, significant morbidity and mortality were observed. Early detection and referral are crucial to prevent complications, especially given the high cost of hemodialysis and the limited availability of peritoneal dialysis in Ethiopia. There is a pressing need to promote preventive nephrology.