Every year in the Netherlands, 80-100 children are born with a single kidney. It is unclear what causes this condition, which can be concerning for parents. This research shows that various factors may contribute, including small genetic changes and maternal exposures during pregnancy. Interactions between these factors also play a role. In most cases, there is not likely one single cause. Additionally, it is known that children with a single kidney are at an increased risk of kidney damage. However, the exact level of risk is uncertain, and there is limited information on the factors that increase this risk. This research confirms that a significant number of children with a single kidney develop signs of kidney damage during childhood. One important risk factor identified was being overweight, which should be a particular concern for parents and doctors caring for these children.
Sander Groen in ‘t Woud (1991) obtained his medical degree in 2017 at the Radboud University and worked at the Bernhoven hospital as resident afterwards. In 2018, he started with his PhD research at the Departments for Health Evidence and Paediatric Nephrology of the Radboud university medical center. He is currently working as a medical doctor in clinical genetics.