AI-powered insights in pediatric nephrology: current applications and future opportunities.
Authors
Affiliations (15)
Affiliations (15)
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Loma Linda University Children's Hospital (LLUCH), Loma Linda University (LLU), 11175 Campus St. A1120H, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA. [email protected].
- Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
- College of Medicine, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Kansas City, and University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO, USA.
- Office of the Surgeon General, U.S. Army, Falls Church, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Nephrology, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Taibah University College of Medicine, Medinah, Saudi Arabia.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Penn State Health Children's Hospital, Penn State, Hershey, PA, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology, Emory University and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Loma Linda University Children's Hopistal, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA.
- Department of Medicine, East Tennessee Children's Hospital, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA.
- Department Pediatrics, Division of Critical Care Medicine, Children's National Hospital, Washington, D.C, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Akron Children's Hospital, Akron, OH, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology, Akron Children's Hospital, Akron, OH, USA.
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly emerging as a transformative force in pediatric nephrology, enabling improvements in diagnostic accuracy, therapeutic precision, and operational workflows. By integrating diverse datasets-including patient histories, genomics, imaging, and longitudinal clinical records-AI-driven tools can detect subtle kidney anomalies, predict acute kidney injury, and forecast disease progression. Deep learning models, for instance, have demonstrated the potential to enhance ultrasound interpretations, refine kidney biopsy assessments, and streamline pathology evaluations. Coupled with robust decision support systems, these innovations also optimize medication dosing and dialysis regimens, ultimately improving patient outcomes. AI-powered chatbots hold promise for improving patient engagement and adherence, while AI-assisted documentation solutions offer relief from administrative burdens, mitigating physician burnout. However, ethical and practical challenges remain. Healthcare professionals must receive adequate training to harness AI's capabilities, ensuring that such technologies bolster rather than erode the vital doctor-patient relationship. Safeguarding data privacy, minimizing algorithmic bias, and establishing standardized regulatory frameworks are critical for safe deployment. Beyond clinical care, AI can accelerate pediatric nephrology research by identifying biomarkers, enabling more precise patient recruitment, and uncovering novel therapeutic targets. As these tools evolve, interdisciplinary collaborations and ongoing oversight will be key to integrating AI responsibly. Harnessing AI's vast potential could revolutionize pediatric nephrology, championing a future of individualized, proactive, and empathetic care for children with kidney diseases. Through strategic collaboration and transparent development, these advanced technologies promise to minimize disparities, foster innovation, and sustain compassionate patient-centered care, shaping a new horizon in pediatric nephrology research and practice.