Pediatric Renal Osteodystrophy: A Bibliometric Analysis of Global Research Trends and Emerging Themes

Background Pediatric Renal Osteodystrophy (pROD) is a significant complication of chronic kidney disease prevalent in pediatric patients that contributes to impaired bone growth, bone pain, deformities, fractures, and reduced quality of life. Despite its clinical significance, the evolution of research on this topic has not been previously analyzed through bibliometric analysis. Objective To analyze worldwide trends in publications, key players, collaborations, and emerging topics of pediatric renal osteodystrophy literature. Methods We performed bibliometric analyses on 768 related papers from Web of Science Core Collection published from 1971 to 2026 utilizing VOSviewer. Publication quantity, author characteristics, subject categories, co-authorship networks, keyword co-occurrences, and co-citations were assessed. Results Research output grew markedly after 2005 and stabilized after reaching its peak in 2013 and 2020. Urology & Nephrology and Pediatrics dominated research disciplines. Salusky IB was the most prolific author, and Pediatric Nephrology was the top journal. Keywords/citations indicated progression from initial bone histology/RO classification studies to current examination of CKD-MBD, mineral metabolism, FGF-23 biology, and therapy. Conclusions From focusing on skeletal concerns, pediatric renal osteodystrophy research has developed into a CKD-associated mineral and bone disorder. Future efforts need to address nutrition, post-transplant bone pathologies, and neglected global populations.