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Condition

Pediatric Horseshoe Kidney

Key Points about Horseshoe Kidney (Renal Fusion) in Children

  • Horseshoe kidney is when the two kidneys join (fuse) together at the bottom. They form a 'U' shape like a horseshoe. It is also known as renal fusion.
  • The condition occurs when a baby is growing in the womb, as the baby’s kidneys move into place. Horseshoe kidney can occur alone or with other disorders.
  • Researchers aren’t sure exactly why horseshoe kidney occurs. It may be caused by a problem with chromosomes. Horseshoe kidney can occur along with some genetic disorders, such as Turner syndrome and Edward syndrome.
  • About 1 out of 3 children with horseshoe kidney will have a problem with the heart and blood vessels, nervous system or genitourinary system.
  • There is no treatment needed for the fused kidney, but sometimes horseshoe kidneys are associated with UPJ obstruction. The condition can’t be changed or cured. But a child with no symptoms may not need any treatment. 

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PATIENT STORY

Gabriella's Story

Providers Who Treat Horseshoe Kidney

    Departments that Treat Horseshoe Kidney

    Children's National nephrologist Asha Moudgil, M.D., listens to the heart of a little girl.

    Nephrology

    Learn how our highly skilled team works across divisions to manage the full range of kidney diseases in children, including dialysis and kidney transplantation.

    Healthy Urinary Guidance & Support Clinic

    We are dedicated to helping children overcome challenges with wetting problems and urinary tract infections in our Healthy Urinary Guidance & Support Clinic.

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    Urology

    At Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C., our pediatric urologists provide comprehensive care for disorders affecting reproductive and urinary organs.