Living with Oligomeganephronia
A rare kidney condition in which the kidneys have far fewer nephrons (filtering units) than usual, and the ones present are enlarged.
Understanding Oligomeganephronia
Nephrons are the tiny filtering units of the kidney. In this condition the remaining glomeruli and tubules are much larger than normal. GARD lists reduced kidney function and small kidneys among its features. GARD lists onset as any time in life.
Signs & symptoms
Symptoms vary from person to person. GARD lists these among the most common:
- Fewer nephrons than normal
- Small kidneys on both sides
- Reduced kidney function
- Enlarged kidney filters (glomerulomegaly)
- Premature birth or small size for gestational age
- Kidney failure (renal insufficiency)
Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.
Diagnosis
- 1Talk with your doctor
Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.
- 2See a specialist
Specialists who may be involved include kidney specialists.
- 3Ask which tests can help
Your care team will decide which exams and tests can confirm the diagnosis.
Care & treatment
- Care team
- Kidney specialists (nephrologists)
- Expert care
- Ask about multidisciplinary care centers for rare conditions
- Treatment
- GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
- Research
- Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.
General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.
Everyday life
Living with a rare condition is easier with support.
- Connect with National Kidney Foundation and other patient organizations
- Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
- Ask about patient registries that help research
- Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Quick facts
GARD doesn't describe a cause for this condition yet.
Also known as: oligomeganephronic hypoplasia; oligomeganephronic hypoplasia of kidney; oligomeganephronic renal hypoplasia
Patient organizations
- National Kidney FoundationKidney diseases · United States
- Renal Support NetworkKidney diseases · United States
You are more than your diagnosis
Perspectives from people navigating life with Oligomeganephronia.
Explore research for Oligomeganephronia
Explore actively recruiting Oligomeganephronia studies with HealthSpark.
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- Recruiting studies from ClinicalTrials.gov
- Share your city to look for research near you
- Eligibility is confirmed by the study team
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Powered by HealthSpark, our AI chat helper · Study information from ClinicalTrials.gov · Eligibility is confirmed by the study team.
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