About
Dr. Charles Thomas Constantine is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at Neurlogist in Surrey, BC, he is a trusted provider of specialized kidney care in the community. He adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). As a Nephrologist, he specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers comprehensive care for a wide range of kidney conditions, from early detection and prevention to advanced disease management, including support for patients on dialysis.
He graduated with an MD and CM (Master of Surgery) from McGill University in 1998. Following medical school, he completed a residency in Internal Medicine, followed by specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. Dr. Constantine is a board-certified Nephrologist with over 21 years of specialized experience since 2003. He holds key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical excellence.
Dr. Constantine's professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and improving the quality of life for his patients. He is dedicated to educating patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them in shared decision-making. Utilizing evidence-based medicine and advanced therapies, he aims for optimal patient outcomes. His approach emphasizes early detection, prevention of disease progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications. He collaborates closely with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to provide holistic and patient-centered care in Surrey. All communication and care are provided in English, ensuring clarity and understanding for his patients.
Dr. Charles Constantine provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Dr. Constantine addresses a progressive loss of kidney function over months or years, affecting the body's ability to filter waste and maintain fluid balance.
- Anemia of Chronic Kidney Disease: A common complication where damaged kidneys don't produce enough erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production.
- Early Stages of CKD (Stages 1-3): Regular monitoring to track kidney function and progression.
- Hypertensive Nephrosclerosis (Kidney Disease due to High Blood Pressure): Often coexists with other forms of kidney disease.
Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)
Dr. Constantine addresses can be primary (originating in the kidneys) or secondary to systemic diseases like lupus or vasculitis.
- Nephrotic Syndrome: Treatment aims to reduce proteinuria and manage symptoms.
- Lupus Nephritis: Kidney inflammation caused by Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease.
- Nephritic Syndrome: Characterized by hematuria (blood in urine), hypertension, oliguria (reduced urine output), and some degree of proteinuria and edema.
Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders
Dr. Constantine addresses management of high blood pressure, especially when it's difficult to control or related to kidney disease, and disorders of body salts and minerals.
- Acid-Base Disorders (Acidosis, Alkalosis): Imbalances in the body's pH level, either too acidic (acidosis) or too alkaline (alkalosis).
- Secondary Hypertension: Treating the underlying cause can often improve or resolve the hypertension.
- Disorders of Sodium and Water Balance (Hyponatremia, Hypernatremia): Requires careful diagnosis of the cause and precise management of fluid and electrolyte intake.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Charles Constantine is necessary.
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Management related to Kidney Disease: Diagnosis and treatment of high blood pressure, particularly resistant or secondary hypertension linked to kidney problems.
- Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) and Other Genetic Kidney Disorders Management: Genetic counseling and family screening coordination.
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Management: Education on self-management strategies for CKD.
- Dialysis Access Planning and Coordination: Evaluation and planning for optimal long-term dialysis access, including arteriovenous fistulas (AVF), grafts (AVG), and peritoneal dialysis catheters.
- Electrolyte and Acid-Base Disorder Management: Diagnosis and treatment of complex imbalances in sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and acid-base status.
- Management of Diabetic Kidney Disease (Diabetic Nephropathy): Close collaboration with endocrinologists and primary care physicians.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Constantine.
All nephrology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Society of Nephrology (CSN) and Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines. A referral from a physician or another specialist is generally required for consultation.
Dr. Constantine's primary nephrology clinic, Neurlogist, is located in the vibrant neighborhoods of Guildford and Fraser Heights in Surrey, BC. The clinic is situated conveniently near Surrey Memorial Hospital, ensuring seamless coordination for any hospital-related needs. Easily accessible via TransLink's SkyTrain Expo Line and local buses, the clinic offers a professional and welcoming environment for comprehensive kidney care. Patients can expect accessible, comfortable facilities and on-site or nearby parking options, making visits convenient for all.
- Are services from Dr. Constantine covered by provincial health insurance?
- Most specialized medical care for kidney diseases provided by Dr. Constantine is covered under Medical Services Plan (MSP). This includes appointments, prescribed kidney function tests, management of dialysis, and care before and after a kidney transplant. Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and medical care related to kidney transplantation are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). Preventive counseling for high-risk individuals referred by a physician is also typically covered. It's always best to confirm coverage specifics with Dr. Constantine's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP) directly, as some specific tests or newer adjunctive therapies might have varying coverage.
- How does Dr. Constantine help manage high blood pressure (hypertension)?
- Dr. Constantine, as a Nephrologist, has expertise in managing hypertension, especially if it's severe, resistant to standard treatments, or caused by kidney disease. He can investigate underlying causes, optimize medication regimens, and provide guidance on lifestyle changes to effectively control blood pressure, which is crucial for protecting kidney health and overall cardiovascular well-being.
- What is the difference between a Nephrologist like Dr. Constantine and a Urologist?
- The key difference lies in their approach: Dr. Constantine, as a Nephrologist, is an expert in the medical treatment of kidney diseases and functional kidney problems (e.g., how well kidneys filter blood, manage electrolytes, and produce urine). A Urologist is a surgeon who deals with physical problems of the urinary system, including surgical removal of kidney stones or tumors, and issues with the bladder, ureters, and male reproductive organs. They often collaborate on patient care.
- When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. Constantine?
- A consultation with Dr. Constantine is recommended if your doctor detects abnormalities in kidney function tests, you have a strong family history of kidney disease, or you require specialized management for conditions like advanced chronic kidney disease, glomerulonephritis, or are being considered for dialysis or kidney transplant. Any sudden decline in kidney function also warrants urgent nephrology review.
- What are the main types of dialysis Dr. Constantine might discuss?
- Dr. Constantine can explain various dialysis options if needed. The two main types are hemodialysis, where blood is cleaned outside the body by a machine, and peritoneal dialysis, where a solution is put into your abdomen to clean the blood internally. Both have different schedules and requirements, and Dr. Constantine would help determine suitability based on individual patient needs.
Neurlogist
503-9639 137A St, Dr. Charles T. Constantine Inc.
Surrey, BC V3T 0M1
Office Phone: (604) 582-6606 | Office Fax: (604) 583-2229
Dr. Constantine is a licensed Nephrologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Constantine, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).
Verify Dr. Constantine's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/323851/Constantine%2CCharles