Recommendations of the Brazilian Society of Nephrology Regarding Pediatric Patients on Renal Replacement Therapy during the Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Introduction: The impact of the new coronavirus (SARS-COV-2) and its worldwide clinical manifestations (COVID-19) imposed specific regional recommendations for populations in need of specialized care, such as children and adolescents with kidney diseases, particularlyinrenalreplacementtherapies (RRT). We present the recommendations of the Brazilian Society of Nephrology regarding the treatment of pediatric patients with kidney diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Articles and documents from medical societies and government agencies on specific recommendations for children on RRT in relation to COVID-19 as well as those focused on epidemiological aspects of this condition in Brazil Were evaluated and analyzed. Results: We present recommendations on outpatient care, transportation to dialysis centers, peritoneal dialysis, hemodialysis, and kidney transplantation in children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. Discussion: Despite initial observations of higher mortality rates in specific age groups (the elderly) and with comorbidities (obese, diabetics, and those with cardiovascular diseases), patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on RRT are particularly prone to develop COVID-19. Specific measures must be taken to reduce the risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2 and developing COVID-19, especially during transport to dialysis facilities, as well as on arrival and in contact with other patients.