Dr. Isabelle Ethier – Nephrologist | Montréal, QC

Dr. Isabelle Ethier is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at CHUM, Service de néphrologie in Montréal, QC, she is a trusted provider of specialized kidney care in the community. She adheres strictly to the standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ). 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. Ethier completed her medical degree in 2018 and subsequently undertook a residency in Internal Medicine. Following this, she pursued specialized fellowship training in Nephrology, accumulating over six years of experience in the field since 2018. She has obtained the necessary certifications to practice as a Nephrologist in Québec, including rigorous postgraduate training and certification from recognized medical boards.

Her professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and enhancing the quality of life for patients with kidney disease. She emphasizes educating patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them through shared decision-making. Utilizing evidence-based medicine and advanced therapies, Dr. Ethier aims for optimal patient outcomes. Her approach includes early detection, prevention of disease progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications. She collaborates closely with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to provide holistic care. Dr. Ethier provides nephrology consultations and treatments in French, ensuring clear communication and compassionate care for her patients in Montréal.

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

Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders

Dr. Ethier 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.

• Disorders of Sodium and Water Balance (Hyponatremia, Hypernatremia): Requires careful diagnosis of the cause and precise management of fluid and electrolyte intake.
• Acid-Base Disorders (Acidosis, Alkalosis): Imbalances in the body's pH level, either too acidic (acidosis) or too alkaline (alkalosis).
• Secondary Hypertension: Important to consider in young patients or those with abrupt onset of severe hypertension.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Dr. Ethier addresses management focuses on slowing progression, treating underlying causes like diabetes and hypertension, and managing complications.

• Mineral and Bone Disorder of CKD (CKD-MBD): Disorders of calcium, phosphorus, parathyroid hormone, and vitamin D metabolism leading to bone disease and vascular calcification.
• Hypertensive Nephrosclerosis (Kidney Disease due to High Blood Pressure): Often coexists with other forms of kidney disease.
• Early Stages of CKD (Stages 1-3): Focus on controlling risk factors (blood pressure, blood sugar), lifestyle modifications, and avoiding kidney-damaging medications.

Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)

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

• 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.
• Lupus Nephritis: Requires aggressive immunosuppressive therapy to prevent kidney failure.

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

• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Diagnosis and Management: Identification of underlying causes and implementation of supportive care to promote kidney recovery.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Management related to Kidney Disease: Utilizing ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and comprehensive medication strategies.
• Management of Dialysis Complications: Proactive care to improve quality of life and outcomes for dialysis patients.
• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) and Other Genetic Kidney Disorders Management: Monitoring for complications, managing symptoms, and discussing new therapeutic options.
• Anemia and Mineral & Bone Disorder Management in CKD: Treatment of anemia associated with chronic kidney disease using iron therapy and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs).
• Glomerular Disease (Glomerulonephritis) Diagnosis and Treatment: Specialized care for complex autoimmune and inflammatory kidney conditions.

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

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. Ethier practices primarily at the CHUM, Service de néphrologie, located in Montréal's Ville-Marie East (Quartier Latin, Village) neighborhood. The clinic is situated close to Little Italy, making it accessible via Société de transport de Montréal (STM) options including Métro and Bus. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, providing a professional and welcoming environment for comprehensive kidney care. Patients can usually find convenient parking options nearby, ensuring easy access for scheduled appointments and consultations.

How does Dr. Ethier help manage high blood pressure (hypertension)?

Dr. Ethier, as a Nephrologist, has expertise in managing hypertension, especially if it's severe, resistant to standard treatments, or caused by kidney disease. She 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 are the main types of dialysis Dr. Ethier might discuss?

If your kidney function declines significantly, Dr. Ethier 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. Ethier 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. Ethier?

Dr. Ethier 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.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Ethier?

For most consultations with Dr. Ethier 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. Please have your referring doctor's office contact Dr. Ethier's clinic for referral instructions.

What is the difference between a Nephrologist like Dr. Ethier and a Urologist?

The key difference lies in their approach: Dr. Ethier, 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.

CHUM, Service de néphrologie
1000 Rue Saint-Denis
Montréal, QC H2X 0C1

Office Phone: (514) 890-8000

Dr. Ethier 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. Ethier, particularly for services covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).

Verify Dr. Ethier's registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=18881