Nephrology at UPMC in North Central Pa.

At UPMC, our nephrologists diagnose and treat patients of all ages with kidney diseases and related disorders. We provide a full range of care for every stage — from the earliest changes in function, to dialysis and kidney transplantation.

Whatever the issue, our dedicated team will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Our goal is to restore your optimal health, so you can get back to a full and active life.

Kidney Conditions We Treat

Kidneys play a vital a role in your health, filtering blood for waste and extra fluid. Our nephrologists treat conditions that both directly and indirectly affect this important organ. Common diseases include:

Acute kidney failure: Damage to the kidneys that occurs suddenly over a period of days, usually due to an infection, injury or urinary tract obstruction.
Chronic kidney disease: Damage to the kidneys over a long period of time (months to years) until they eventually can no longer function.
Kidney stones: Occurs when minerals in the urine clump together. Passing the stones can be painful, but the condition rarely causes long-term problems.
Nephrotic syndrome: A condition in which protein leaks into your urine, often leading to swelling in different parts of your body.
Polycystic kidney disease: Genetic disorder that causes multiple fluid-filled cysts in your kidneys, which can cause damage and possibly kidney failure.

Our specialists also help manage underlying factors that can cause kidney conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, autoimmune diseases (like lupus) and medications. And, we work closely with UPMC oncologists to provide kidney cancer patients with the most experienced and comprehensive care available.

Tests and Treatments

Simple blood and urine tests can help determine if you have kidney disease. Our kidney specialists may also recommend advanced imaging, including an ultrasound or CT scan, which can detect changes in the kidneys as well as any obstructions.

Depending on your needs, we’ll work with you to create a personalized treatment plan. For mild or early-stage conditions, options may include lifestyle support or medication, which can help relieve symptoms and stop the problem from progressing.

Caring for End-Stage Kidney Failure

For some people with chronic kidney disease, the kidneys eventually stop working, in which case the body needs a new way to perform those vital functions. Our nephrologists can help you find the best option for your health and lifestyle:

Dialysis: This ongoing treatment filters your blood to remove waste and extra fluid before returning it to the body. There are two types of dialysis: hemodialysis, which uses a machine and can be done at one of our partner’s nearby dialysis centers or from the comfort of home; and peritoneal dialysis, which uses the lining of your abdomen (peritoneum) and can be done at home under your doctor’s supervision. With today’s advances, many dialysis patients live normal, active lives for many years.
Kidney transplant: UPMC has one of the nation's most active and experienced living kidney transplant programs, which takes a healthy kidney from a living person and transplants it into another person to replace a failing kidney. Living-donor transplants often have little to no wait time and better outcomes compared to deceased-donor transplants. In addition, our UPMC Kidney Transplant Clinic in Williamsport allows patients to be fully evaluated for transplants while staying close to home and family.