Bartter syndrome — also known as salt-wasting nephropathy — refers to a group of rare, inherited kidney disorders that are present at birth and cause imbalances in electrolyte (mineral) levels in your body. Bartter syndrome affects your kidneys’ ability to reabsorb sodium chloride (salt) and may cause problems with potassium, calcium, and magnesium levels.
UPMC experts provide advanced treatment for Bartter syndrome, helping you effectively manage your condition and reduce your risk of complications.
Bartter syndrome — also known as salt-wasting nephropathy — refers to a group of rare, inherited kidney disorders that are present at birth and cause imbalances in electrolyte (mineral) levels in your body. Bartter syndrome affects your kidneys’ ability to reabsorb sodium chloride (salt) and may cause problems with potassium, calcium, and magnesium levels.
There are five types of Bartter syndrome caused by different gene defects.
Types of Bartter syndrome include:
Bartter syndrome is a genetic (inherited) condition caused by a mutation, or change, in the genes that control your kidney function. These gene mutations lead to problems with your kidneys’ ability to reabsorb salt, which causes you to lose too much salt in your urine (salt wasting). Salt wasting may also cause imbalances in your potassium, calcium, and magnesium levels.
If you have a biological family member with Bartter syndrome, you may be at risk. If both parents are carriers of a mutated gene that causes Bartter syndrome, there is a 25% chance that their children will develop the disorder.
Symptoms of Bartter syndrome can be managed with treatment.
If left untreated, Bartter syndrome may cause serious complications, including:
Bartter syndrome is a genetic condition. If you have a family history of Bartter syndrome, genetic testing and counseling can help you find out if you are a carrier of the gene.
Bartter syndrome is a rare condition that is often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, so the exact number of cases is unknown. However, estimates range from one in 100,000 to one in one million people in the U.S. who may be affected by Bartter syndrome.
Symptoms of Bartter syndrome may show up before birth or in early childhood, depending on your type. Symptoms before birth may include increased volume of amniotic fluid in the womb.
Symptoms in early childhood may include:
Children with Bartter syndrome may have distinct facial features, including:
If you or your child has symptoms of Bartter syndrome, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce your risk of complications.
Bartter syndrome is diagnosed with a blood test. Genetic testing may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
During your visit, your doctor will:
Before birth, Bartter syndrome can be diagnosed with:
Several tests can be used to diagnose Bartter syndrome after birth, including:
With ongoing treatment and management, most people with Bartter syndrome live normal lives. A few people with severe, untreated symptoms may develop kidney problems over time, including kidney failure.
Most people with well-controlled Bartter syndrome have a normal life expectancy.
The goal of Bartter syndrome treatment is to manage symptoms and promote normal growth while reducing the risk of long-term complications.
Treatment may include:
Eating a potassium-rich diet may help people with Bartter syndrome maintain a healthy electrolyte balance. However, diet alone may not be enough to restore normal electrolyte levels.
Your doctor may suggest you work with a registered dietitian to ensure your diet includes the right balance of nutrients.
Medications to treat Bartter syndrome may include:
When you choose UPMC for Bartter syndrome care, you will receive:
By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2025-04-24.
