Baylor Health Care System
 
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Bartter syndrome

Alternative Names

Potassium wasting

Treatment

Bartter syndrome is treated by keeping the blood potassium level above 3.5 mEq/L. This is done by following a diet rich in potassium. Many patients also need salt and magnesium supplements, as well as medicine that block the kidney's ability to get rid of potassium. High doses of non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) may also be used.

Outlook (Prognosis)

The long term outlook for patients with Bartter syndrome is not certain. Infants who have severe growth failure may grow normally with treatment. While most patients remain well with ongoing treatment, some develop kidney failure.

Possible Complications

Kidney failure is a possible complication.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if your child is not growing well, is urinating frequently, and is having muscle cramps.

Review Date: 11/16/2006
Reviewed By: David M. Charytan, M.D., M.Sc., Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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