About
Dr. Karen Bronn is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at a specialized nephrology clinic in Nanaimo in Nanaimo, BC, she is a trusted provider of comprehensive kidney care within the community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and compassionate treatment. Dr. Bronn’s focus is on the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers a wide range of services, from early detection and prevention to advanced disease management, including support for patients on dialysis, in a welcoming and professional environment.
She graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB) from the University of Cape Town in 2001, South Africa. Following medical school, she completed a residency in Internal Medicine and then specialized in Nephrology through fellowship training. Dr. Bronn is a board-certified Nephrologist, bringing over 18 years of specialized experience since 2006. She holds key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of practice and ongoing professional development.
Dr. Bronn’s professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and improving the quality of life for her patients. 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, she aims for optimal patient outcomes. Her approach emphasizes 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. All communication and patient care are conducted in English, with a focus on compassion, clarity, and respect for each individual’s needs.
Dr. Karen Bronn provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:
Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)
Dr. Bronn addresses can be primary (originating in the kidneys) or secondary to systemic diseases like lupus or vasculitis.
- 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): Can be primary or secondary to other conditions. Treatment options vary.
- Nephrotic Syndrome: Common causes include Minimal Change Disease, FSGS, and Membranous Nephropathy.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
Dr. Bronn addresses causes where kidneys lose their filtering ability, leading to a build-up of waste products and fluid imbalance.
- Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: A form of AKI that can occur after exposure to iodinated contrast media used in imaging procedures.
- Pre-renal AKI: Treatment focuses on restoring kidney perfusion by addressing the underlying cause (e.g., fluid resuscitation).
- Post-renal AKI: Imaging studies are crucial for diagnosis.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Dr. Bronn addresses a progressive loss of kidney function over months or years, affecting the body's ability to filter waste and maintain fluid balance.
- 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.
- Early Stages of CKD (Stages 1-3): Regular monitoring to track kidney function and progression.
- Diabetic Nephropathy (Kidney Disease due to Diabetes): Requires strict blood glucose and blood pressure control, along with specific kidney-protective medications.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Karen Bronn is necessary.
- Peritoneal Dialysis Program Management (CAPD/APD): Home-based therapy allowing for greater lifestyle flexibility.
- Glomerular Disease (Glomerulonephritis) Diagnosis and Treatment: Evaluation and management of various glomerular diseases like IgA nephropathy, FSGS, lupus nephritis, and membranous nephropathy.
- Electrolyte and Acid-Base Disorder Management: Often crucial in hospitalized patients or those with advanced kidney disease.
- Anemia and Mineral & Bone Disorder Management in CKD: Management of CKD-Mineral and Bone Disorder (CKD-MBD) through dietary advice, phosphate binders, and vitamin D analogues.
- Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) and Other Genetic Kidney Disorders Management: Genetic counseling and family screening coordination.
- Hemodialysis Program Management (In-Centre and Home): Comprehensive management for patients undergoing in-centre hemodialysis.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Bronn.
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. Bronn practices at a specialized nephrology clinic situated in the heart of Nanaimo's Central Nanaimo, Departure Bay neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near Nanaimo Regional General Hospital, easily accessible via the Regional District of Nanaimo Transit System (BC Transit). The facility offers a professional, welcoming environment designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, with ample parking usually available nearby. Patients can expect comprehensive kidney care in a setting dedicated to their health and well-being, with close proximity to public transit options and parking facilities for ease of access.
- What is the difference between a Nephrologist like Dr. Bronn and a Urologist?
- A Nephrologist like Dr. Bronn is a medical specialist who focuses on diagnosing and managing diseases that affect kidney function, such as chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, dialysis, and medical aspects of kidney transplantation. Urologists are surgical specialists who treat anatomical or structural problems of the kidneys and urinary tract (e.g., kidney stones requiring surgery, bladder issues, prostate problems, cancers of the kidney/bladder/prostate). While both deal with kidneys, Nephrologists manage kidney function and disease medically, whereas Urologists manage surgically and address urinary tract structures.
- Are services from Dr. Bronn covered by provincial health insurance?
- Medically necessary services provided by a Nephrologist like Dr. Bronn, 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, Medical Services Plan (MSP). 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. Bronn's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP) directly, as some specific tests or newer adjunctive therapies might have varying coverage.
- What are some common kidney conditions treated by Dr. Bronn?
- As a Nephrologist, Dr. Bronn 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. Bronn?
- A consultation with Dr. Bronn 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 is involved in the kidney transplant process with a Nephrologist like Dr. Bronn?
- As a Nephrologist, Dr. Bronn 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.
a specialized nephrology clinic in Nanaimo
204-1125 Dufferin Cres, Harbor City Health Centre
Nanaimo, BC V9S 2B5
Office Phone: (250) 591-1891 | Office Fax: (250) 797-2595
Dr. Bronn 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. Bronn, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).
Verify Dr. Bronn's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/340637/Bronn%2CKaren