Dr. Charlotte Giroux – Nephrologist | Greenfield Park, QC

Dr. Charlotte Giroux is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at Hôpital Charles-Lemoyne, Néphrologie in Greenfield Park, QC, she is a trusted provider of specialized kidney care in the community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring that every patient receives safe, effective, and compassionate treatment. As a Nephrologist, she 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.

Dr. Giroux graduated with a Medical Degree in 1977. Following medical school, she completed a residency in Internal Medicine, then pursued specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. She has been practicing as a Nephrologist with over 43 years of experience since 1981. She has completed rigorous postgraduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice nephrology in Quebec, demonstrating her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical excellence.

Her professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and improving the quality of life for patients with kidney disease. She is dedicated to educating patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them in shared decision-making. Dr. Giroux utilizes evidence-based medicine and advanced therapies to optimize patient outcomes. She emphasizes early detection, prevention of disease progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications. Her holistic approach involves collaborative care with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to support overall patient well-being. She provides nephrology consultations and treatments in French, ensuring clear communication and personalized care for her patients in Greenfield Park.

Dr. Charlotte Giroux provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:

Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)

Dr. Giroux addresses diagnosis often requires a kidney biopsy, and treatment may involve immunosuppressive medications.

• Lupus Nephritis: Kidney inflammation caused by Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease.
• IgA Nephropathy (Berger's Disease): Clinical course varies; some progress to kidney failure. Treatment may include blood pressure control and immunosuppression.
• Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS): One of the common causes of kidney failure.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Dr. Giroux addresses a progressive loss of kidney function over months or years, affecting the body's ability to filter waste and maintain fluid balance.

• Hypertensive Nephrosclerosis (Kidney Disease due to High Blood Pressure): Kidney damage caused by long-term, poorly controlled high blood pressure, leading to scarring of kidney tissue.
• Diabetic Nephropathy (Kidney Disease due to Diabetes): A leading cause of CKD and end-stage renal disease.
• Anemia of Chronic Kidney Disease: Treated with iron supplements and/or erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs).

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

Dr. Giroux addresses requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to address the underlying cause and support kidney recovery.

• Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: A form of AKI that can occur after exposure to iodinated contrast media used in imaging procedures.
• Post-renal AKI: Treatment involves relieving the obstruction to allow normal urine flow.
• Pre-renal AKI: Kidneys themselves are initially undamaged but are not receiving enough blood.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Charlotte Giroux is necessary.

• Management of Dialysis Complications: Proactive care to improve quality of life and outcomes for dialysis patients.
• Comprehensive Nephrology Consultation: Thorough assessment of kidney function, diagnosis of kidney diseases, and development of personalized management plans.
• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Diagnosis and Management: Identification of underlying causes and implementation of supportive care to promote kidney recovery.
• Glomerular Disease (Glomerulonephritis) Diagnosis and Treatment: Evaluation and management of various glomerular diseases like IgA nephropathy, FSGS, lupus nephritis, and membranous nephropathy.
• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) and Other Genetic Kidney Disorders Management: Comprehensive care for patients with inherited kidney diseases such as Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD).
• Dialysis Access Planning and Coordination: Management of dialysis access complications like infections or thrombosis.

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Giroux.

All nephrology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) 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. Giroux's primary nephrology clinic is situated within the Hôpital Charles-Lemoyne in the Greenfield Park neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near various medical facilities and diagnostic services, ensuring comprehensive kidney care in a professional and welcoming environment. Easily accessible via local public transit routes, the clinic offers a comfortable setting for consultations and treatments. Patients will find parking typically available nearby, with some accessible spots to accommodate all needs. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, emphasizing quality, safety, and personalized care.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Giroux?

For most consultations with Dr. Giroux that are medically necessary and covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ), a referral from a family doctor or another specialist (like an internist or endocrinologist) is typically needed. This helps in coordinating your care effectively. In urgent situations, your referring doctor will facilitate an expedited consultation. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (450) 466-5045.

What are some common kidney conditions treated by Dr. Giroux?

Dr. Giroux treats a wide range of kidney-related conditions. Common ones include Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) from various causes (like diabetes and hypertension), Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of kidney filters), Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), electrolyte and acid-base disorders, and complications requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. She specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders.

What are the main types of dialysis Dr. Giroux might discuss?

If your kidney function declines significantly, Dr. Giroux may discuss renal replacement therapies, primarily hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Hemodialysis involves filtering your blood using an external machine, usually at a dialysis center (or sometimes at home). Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of your abdomen (peritoneum) and a special solution to filter blood inside your body, and is typically done at home. Dr. Giroux will explain the benefits and drawbacks of each, helping you choose the best option for your lifestyle and medical condition.

What is involved in the kidney transplant process with a Nephrologist like Dr. Giroux?

Dr. Giroux is involved in the medical aspects of kidney transplantation. This means her role includes assessing if a transplant is a good option for you, helping manage your kidney disease before transplant, and providing ongoing medical care after the surgery. This post-transplant care is vital for the long-term success of the new kidney and involves medication management and regular check-ups.

Are services from Dr. Giroux covered by provincial health insurance?

Medically necessary services provided by a Nephrologist like Dr. Giroux, such as consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and kidney transplant-related care, are generally covered by your provincial health plan, Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). 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 Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). Preventive counseling for high-risk individuals referred by a physician is also typically covered. It's always best to confirm coverage specifics with Dr. Giroux's office or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) directly, as some specific tests or newer adjunctive therapies might have varying coverage.

What does a Nephrologist like Dr. Giroux specialize in?

Dr. Giroux is a Nephrologist, a physician with specialized training in kidney health and disease. She manages the full spectrum of kidney disorders, from early detection and prevention to advanced therapies like dialysis and post-transplant care. She specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders.

When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. Giroux?

A consultation with Dr. Giroux 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.

Hôpital Charles-Lemoyne, Néphrologie
3120 boul Taschereau
Greenfield Park, QC J4V 2H1

Office Phone: (450) 466-5000 | Office Fax: (450) 466-5045

Dr. Giroux is a licensed Nephrologist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Giroux, particularly for services covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).

Verify Dr. Giroux's registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=77454