children s health issues
Bartter Syndrome and Gitelman Syndrome
Diagnosis of Bartter Syndrome and Gitelman Syndrome
Measurement of electrolyte levels in the blood and urine Doctors suspect Bartter syndrome or Gitelman syndrome in children who have characteristic symptoms or who have abnormal levels of electrolytes in their blood and urine. Sometimes the abnormal electrolyte levels are found when laboratory tests are done for other reasons. The diagnosis of either syndrome can be suggested by finding high levels of renin and aldosterone in the blood and high levels of sodium, chloride, and potassium in the urine. The diagnosis is confirmed through genetic testing, which is becoming more widely available. Family members can be evaluated by a genetic specialist or kidney specialist. Most often, genetic testing is done. 