Renal tubular acidosis in childhood

Increased knowledge on the genetics, the pathophysiology, the natural history and the treatment of renal tubular acidosis (RTA) has begun to clarify this often confusing field. To help pediatricians better acquainted with the physiological and genetic basis of the various types of RTA, to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment with the ultimate aim of preventing the significant growth failure and chronic kidney failure of undiagnosed and untreated patients with RTA, we reviewed new data on the mechanisms of growth retardation in patients with RTA. RTA should be included in the differential diagnosis of a child with growth failure, rickets and metabolic acidosis. The diagnostic work-up and treatment are succinctly presented in this review.