About
Dr. Vanessa Masson is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at a specialized nephrology clinic in Victoria, 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). Dr. Masson’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 preventive strategies to advanced disease management, including support for patients on dialysis, ensuring personalized and compassionate care.
She graduated with an MD and a Master of Surgery (CM) from McGill University in 2016. Following her medical degree, she completed a residency in Internal Medicine, then pursued specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. Dr. Masson is a board-certified Nephrologist with over three years of specialized experience in the field since 2021. 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 professional excellence and ongoing education.
Dr. Masson’s professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and enhancing 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 to optimize 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. Additionally, she is proficient in French, ensuring clear communication with all patients and their families.
Dr. Vanessa Masson provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Dr. Masson addresses management focuses on slowing progression, treating underlying causes like diabetes and hypertension, and managing complications.
- Anemia of Chronic Kidney Disease: A common complication where damaged kidneys don't produce enough erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production.
- Advanced CKD (Stages 4-5, Non-Dialysis): Severe reduction in kidney function, often accompanied by symptoms like fatigue, swelling, and changes in urination.
- Mineral and Bone Disorder of CKD (CKD-MBD): Aims to prevent fractures and cardiovascular complications.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
Dr. Masson addresses a sudden episode of kidney failure or kidney damage that happens within a few hours or a few days.
- Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: Preventive measures are important in high-risk patients.
- Intrinsic AKI (Renal AKI): Kidney biopsy may be needed for diagnosis in some cases.
- Post-renal AKI: Treatment involves relieving the obstruction to allow normal urine flow.
Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders
Dr. Masson addresses nephrologists are experts in diagnosing and treating complex cases.
- Resistant Hypertension: Evaluation focuses on identifying secondary causes and optimizing medication regimens.
- Secondary Hypertension: Treating the underlying cause can often improve or resolve the hypertension.
- Acid-Base Disorders (Acidosis, Alkalosis): Treatment targets the underlying cause and correction of the pH imbalance.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Vanessa Masson is necessary.
- Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) and Other Genetic Kidney Disorders Management: Monitoring for complications, managing symptoms, and discussing new therapeutic options.
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Management related to Kidney Disease: Utilizing ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and comprehensive medication strategies.
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Management: Ongoing care for patients with all stages of chronic kidney disease, focusing on slowing progression and managing complications.
- Peritoneal Dialysis Program Management (CAPD/APD): Includes patient training, ongoing monitoring, and management of peritoneal dialysis-related issues.
- Dialysis Access Planning and Coordination: Evaluation and planning for optimal long-term dialysis access, including arteriovenous fistulas (AVF), grafts (AVG), and peritoneal dialysis catheters.
- Medical Management of Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis): Evaluation for underlying causes of recurrent kidney stones.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Masson.
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. Masson practices primarily in a well-established kidney care center located in the vibrant neighborhood of Victoria. The clinic is situated close to the BC Transit Hub, providing easy access via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, offering a professional environment equipped for comprehensive kidney care. Patients can usually find convenient parking options nearby, making visits straightforward and stress-free. The location fosters a welcoming atmosphere dedicated to quality kidney health management in the community.
- Are services from Dr. Masson covered by provincial health insurance?
- Medically necessary services provided by a Nephrologist like Dr. Masson, 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. Masson's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP) directly, as some specific tests or newer adjunctive therapies might have varying coverage.
- What are the main types of dialysis Dr. Masson might discuss?
- Dr. Masson 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. Masson would help determine suitability based on individual patient needs.
- What is the difference between a Nephrologist like Dr. Masson and a Urologist?
- A Nephrologist like Dr. Masson 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.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Masson?
- For most consultations with Dr. Masson that are medically necessary and covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP), 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. Masson's clinic for referral instructions.
- When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. Masson?
- A consultation with Dr. Masson 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.
a specialized nephrology clinic in Victoria
1 Hospital Way, Department of Pediatrics
Victoria, BC V8Z 6R5
Office Phone: (250) 727-4212
Dr. Masson 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. Masson, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).
Verify Dr. Masson's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/356505/Masson%2CVanessa