About
Dr. Isabelle Houde is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at CHU de Québec - Hôtel-Dieu de Québec in Québec, 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 each patient receives comprehensive and evidence-based 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 a welcoming environment designed for thorough kidney care, from early detection and prevention to advanced disease management, including support for patients undergoing dialysis.
Dr. Houde graduated with a Medical Degree in 1984. Following medical school, she completed a residency in Internal Medicine, and subsequently undertook specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. With over 34 years of experience practicing as a Nephrologist since 1990, she has developed a comprehensive expertise in the field. She holds the necessary certifications to practice nephrology in Québec, demonstrating her adherence to rigorous postgraduate training and professional standards.
Her professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and improving the quality of life for her patients with kidney disease. She is dedicated to educating patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them through shared decision-making. Utilizing evidence-based medicine and advanced therapies, Dr. Houde focuses on early detection, prevention of disease progression, and holistic management of kidney-related complications. She collaborates closely with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to ensure comprehensive care. Dr. Houde provides nephrology consultations and treatments in French, emphasizing patient-centered care tailored to the Québec community.
Dr. Isabelle Houde provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
Dr. Houde addresses a sudden episode of kidney failure or kidney damage that happens within a few hours or a few days.
- Intrinsic AKI (Renal AKI): Management involves treating the specific kidney injury, supportive care, and sometimes dialysis.
- Pre-renal AKI: Kidneys themselves are initially undamaged but are not receiving enough blood.
- Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: A form of AKI that can occur after exposure to iodinated contrast media used in imaging procedures.
Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)
Dr. Houde addresses disorders that affect the glomeruli, the tiny filtering units within the kidneys, often leading to proteinuria, hematuria, and impaired kidney function.
- Nephritic Syndrome: Characterized by hematuria (blood in urine), hypertension, oliguria (reduced urine output), and some degree of proteinuria and edema.
- IgA Nephropathy (Berger's Disease): Clinical course varies; some progress to kidney failure. Treatment may include blood pressure control and immunosuppression.
- Lupus Nephritis: Regular screening for kidney involvement is crucial for lupus patients.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Dr. Houde addresses early detection and intervention, which can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with CKD.
- Early Stages of CKD (Stages 1-3): Kidney damage with normal or mildly reduced kidney function. Often asymptomatic, detected through routine blood/urine tests.
- Anemia of Chronic Kidney Disease: Treated with iron supplements and/or erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs).
- Hypertensive Nephrosclerosis (Kidney Disease due to High Blood Pressure): Often coexists with other forms of kidney disease.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Isabelle Houde is necessary.
- Dialysis Access Planning and Coordination: Coordination with vascular surgeons and interventional radiologists for access creation and maintenance.
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Management: Includes lifestyle counseling, medication management, and coordination of multidisciplinary care.
- Medical Management of Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis): Development of preventative strategies including dietary modifications and medical therapy.
- Management of Diabetic Kidney Disease (Diabetic Nephropathy): Close collaboration with endocrinologists and primary care physicians.
- Hemodialysis Program Management (In-Centre and Home): Comprehensive management for patients undergoing in-centre hemodialysis.
- Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) and Other Genetic Kidney Disorders Management: Monitoring for complications, managing symptoms, and discussing new therapeutic options.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Houde.
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. Houde's primary nephrology clinic is situated within the CHU de Québec - Hôtel-Dieu de Québec, located in the historic Vieux-Québec (Upper Town) neighborhood, specifically in Saint-Jean-Baptiste. The clinic is conveniently near the Galeries de la Capitale shopping mall, making it accessible for patients from various parts of the city. Easily reachable via the Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC), the clinic offers accessible and comfortable facilities designed to serve patients with diverse needs. Ample parking options are typically available in close proximity to the kidney care center, ensuring a hassle-free visit. The environment is professional and welcoming, dedicated to providing comprehensive kidney care in a supportive setting.
- What is involved in the kidney transplant process with a Nephrologist like Dr. Houde?
- As a Nephrologist, Dr. Houde plays a crucial role in the kidney transplant process. This includes evaluating your suitability for a transplant, managing your health while on the waiting list, coordinating with the transplant surgical team, and providing comprehensive medical care after the transplant to manage immunosuppressive medications and monitor for complications or rejection. She works as part of a multidisciplinary transplant team.
- What are the main types of dialysis Dr. Houde might discuss?
- If your kidney function declines significantly, Dr. Houde 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. Houde will explain the benefits and drawbacks of each, helping you choose the best option for your lifestyle and medical condition.
- What does a Nephrologist like Dr. Houde specialize in?
- Dr. Houde 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.
- What are some common kidney conditions treated by Dr. Houde?
- As a Nephrologist, Dr. Houde manages numerous conditions affecting the kidneys. These frequently include different stages of Chronic Kidney Disease, high blood pressure affecting the kidneys, fluid and electrolyte imbalances, kidney stones (medical management), and advanced kidney failure requiring renal replacement therapy (dialysis or transplant). 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. Houde?
- You should see a Nephrologist like Dr. Houde if you have been diagnosed with kidney disease, have significant risk factors (like diabetes or uncontrolled hypertension with signs of kidney impact), or experience symptoms such as persistent swelling, changes in urination, blood or protein in urine, or unexplained fatigue that your family doctor suspects is kidney-related. A referral from your primary care physician or another specialist is typically required.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Houde?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is generally required to see a Nephrologist like Dr. Houde for services covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)). This ensures that Dr. Houde receives important medical history and that the consultation is appropriate for your condition. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (418) 691-5757.
CHU de Québec - Hôtel-Dieu de Québec
11 Côte du Palais
Québec, QC G1R 2J6
Office Phone: (418) 525-4444 | Office Fax: (418) 691-5757
Dr. Houde 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. Houde, particularly for services covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).
Verify Dr. Houde's registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=84332