Kidney Diseases: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Protein in Urine
The kidneys are very good at keeping protein from entering the urine. Protein loss in the urine is called proteinuria and may mean there is kidney disease.
The kidneys are very good at keeping protein from entering the urine. Protein loss in the urine is called proteinuria and may mean there is kidney disease.
Kidney Disease Symptoms
Learn about the symptoms and signs seen with of kidney disease.
Learn about the symptoms and signs seen with of kidney disease.
Pain or Discomfort
Kidney disease does not usually cause pain or discomfort near the kidneys. However, some kidney related kidney disorders can cause considerable pain or discomfort.
Kidney disease does not usually cause pain or discomfort near the kidneys. However, some kidney related kidney disorders can cause considerable pain or discomfort.
Blood in Urine
Blood in urine (called hematuria) is a common problem but it is also a sign of serious disease. Learn more about blood in urine with this overview.
Blood in urine (called hematuria) is a common problem but it is also a sign of serious disease. Learn more about blood in urine with this overview.
Foamy Urine
Foamy urine (or bubbles in the toilet) can be a sign of protein in the urine from kidney disease.
Foamy urine (or bubbles in the toilet) can be a sign of protein in the urine from kidney disease.
Vitamin D Safety
Before jumping on the Vitamin D bandwagon, take a moment to learn how Vitamin D supplements can be dangerous and Vitamin D toxicity.
Before jumping on the Vitamin D bandwagon, take a moment to learn how Vitamin D supplements can be dangerous and Vitamin D toxicity.
Low eGFR
Estimated GFR (eGFR) is estimate of kidney function. Learn more about having a normal creatinine and low estimated GFR.
Estimated GFR (eGFR) is estimate of kidney function. Learn more about having a normal creatinine and low estimated GFR.
Serum Creatinine
Serum creatinine is the most widely used test to assess kidney function. If the kidneys are failing, the creatinine level will rise.
Serum creatinine is the most widely used test to assess kidney function. If the kidneys are failing, the creatinine level will rise.
Urine Dipstick and Protein
The urine dipstick is an inexpensive and convenient way of screening for protein in the urine.
The urine dipstick is an inexpensive and convenient way of screening for protein in the urine.
Changes in Urine
Many people think that when they have a change in their urine, it could be symptom of a kidney problem.
Many people think that when they have a change in their urine, it could be symptom of a kidney problem.
Kidney Function, GFR, and Age
Estimation of GFR is important for assessing kidney disease. Learn how on the average GFR declines with age.
Estimation of GFR is important for assessing kidney disease. Learn how on the average GFR declines with age.
Salt and Fluid Retention
The kidneys try to keep body’s fluid at just the right level. In certain kidney diseases, the body may accumulate too much salt and fluid.
The kidneys try to keep body’s fluid at just the right level. In certain kidney diseases, the body may accumulate too much salt and fluid.
Types of Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are classified based on what they are made up of or their composition. There are five basic type of kidney stones.
Kidney stones are classified based on what they are made up of or their composition. There are five basic type of kidney stones.
Proteinuria
The medical term for “protein in the urine.”
The medical term for “protein in the urine.”
Kidney Ultrasound
By bouncing ultrasound waves off your kidneys and ureters (and measuring what comes back), we can tell a lot about them.
By bouncing ultrasound waves off your kidneys and ureters (and measuring what comes back), we can tell a lot about them.
Uremia Symptoms
The kidneys work hard to remove numerous toxins from the body. When the kidneys fail, the toxins can build up and cause uremia or blood poisoning.
The kidneys work hard to remove numerous toxins from the body. When the kidneys fail, the toxins can build up and cause uremia or blood poisoning.
Screening for Urine Protein
The three most common methods of screening for protein in the urine are the urine dipstick, sulfosalicyclic acid and urine albumin.
The three most common methods of screening for protein in the urine are the urine dipstick, sulfosalicyclic acid and urine albumin.
Glomerular Filtration Rate
The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is an estimate of the kidney function or filtering capacity of the kidneys.
The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is an estimate of the kidney function or filtering capacity of the kidneys.
Dehydration & Kidney Failure
One of the kidney’s most important roles is to make sure the body has the right amount of salt and fluids. Dehydration can lead to kidney failure.
One of the kidney’s most important roles is to make sure the body has the right amount of salt and fluids. Dehydration can lead to kidney failure.
Quantifying Urine Protein
Once protein is found in the urine, it is often important to know how much is protein is lost in a day.
Once protein is found in the urine, it is often important to know how much is protein is lost in a day.
Uric Acid Kidney Stones
Uric acid stones are relatively common, especially in people with gout, certain types of cancers, and after receiving chemotherapy.
Uric acid stones are relatively common, especially in people with gout, certain types of cancers, and after receiving chemotherapy.
Kidney Stones Overview
Kidney stones can form in your urine when minerals and other substances come together to make crystals. Learn more about kidney stones here.
Kidney stones can form in your urine when minerals and other substances come together to make crystals. Learn more about kidney stones here.
Kidney Disease Risk Factors
Want to know if you are at risk for kidney disease? Read about the common risk factors here.
Want to know if you are at risk for kidney disease? Read about the common risk factors here.
Struvite Kidney Stones
Struvite kidney stones are often called an “infection stone” because they are usually caused by urinary tract infections with certain types of bacteria.
Struvite kidney stones are often called an “infection stone” because they are usually caused by urinary tract infections with certain types of bacteria.
Kidney Failure
Did you learn that you have a problem with your kidneys and that you have kidney failure? Learn the basics of kidney failure here.
Did you learn that you have a problem with your kidneys and that you have kidney failure? Learn the basics of kidney failure here.
Kidney Disease Tests
Brief overview of diagnostic tests or studies used in the diagnosis and monitoring of kidney disease.
Brief overview of diagnostic tests or studies used in the diagnosis and monitoring of kidney disease.
Water Intoxication Risks
Water intoxication is where the body’s level of sodium has been rapidly diluted with too much water. It is also known as hyponatremia or hyperhydration.
Water intoxication is where the body’s level of sodium has been rapidly diluted with too much water. It is also known as hyponatremia or hyperhydration.
Dialysis Indications
Dialysis is a life-saving treatment for people with kidney failure. Learn about the indications for dialysis and when it is time to start dialysis.
Dialysis is a life-saving treatment for people with kidney failure. Learn about the indications for dialysis and when it is time to start dialysis.
Kidney Disease 101
Offers a brief kidney disease overview by discussing the kidneys, kidney disorders, kidney diseases, chronic kidney disease, dialysis and transplantation.
Offers a brief kidney disease overview by discussing the kidneys, kidney disorders, kidney diseases, chronic kidney disease, dialysis and transplantation.
Abdominal CT & Kidney Stones
An abdominal CT is very helpful with the diagnosis of kidney stones. It is also good at diagnosing conditions that mimic kidney stones.
An abdominal CT is very helpful with the diagnosis of kidney stones. It is also good at diagnosing conditions that mimic kidney stones.
Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer is a serious diagnosis. Learn about kidney cancer with this brief overview.
Kidney cancer is a serious diagnosis. Learn about kidney cancer with this brief overview.
Medullary Sponge Kidney
Medullary sponge kidney (MSK) is a relatively common birth defect. It can cause problems such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and blood in the urine.
Medullary sponge kidney (MSK) is a relatively common birth defect. It can cause problems such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and blood in the urine.
Normal Kidney Functions
Ever wonder what the kidneys do? Learn about their many functions and how they are critical to your survival.
Ever wonder what the kidneys do? Learn about their many functions and how they are critical to your survival.
Kidney Disease Causes
There are hundreds of causes of kidney disease. Here are some of the ones most commonly considered or diagnosed during a kidney disorder workup.
There are hundreds of causes of kidney disease. Here are some of the ones most commonly considered or diagnosed during a kidney disorder workup.
The Kidney Doctor
Did your doctor say that you need to see a kidney doctor? Find out more about kidney doctors and what they do.
Did your doctor say that you need to see a kidney doctor? Find out more about kidney doctors and what they do.
Treatment for Kidney Disease
Want to know what can be done to treat kidney disease? Read about the general treatment options here.
Want to know what can be done to treat kidney disease? Read about the general treatment options here.
Types of Kidney Disease
There are hundreds of diseases affecting the kidneys but only a dozen or so types of kidney diseases.
There are hundreds of diseases affecting the kidneys but only a dozen or so types of kidney diseases.
Solitary Kidney
There are a number of different reasons why somebody would have only one functioning or solitary kidney. Although the long-term prognosis for having a solitary kidney is excellent, special precautions and close monitoring for kidney disease are important.
There are a number of different reasons why somebody would have only one functioning or solitary kidney. Although the long-term prognosis for having a solitary kidney is excellent, special precautions and close monitoring for kidney disease are important.
Glomerulus
Glomerulus is a specialized blood vessel that acts as a filter for the blood.
Glomerulus is a specialized blood vessel that acts as a filter for the blood.
Kidney Failure Complications
Complications of kidney failure can affect almost any body organ.
Complications of kidney failure can affect almost any body organ.
Types of Dialysis
Dialysis is a life-saving treatment for people with kidney failure. Learn about the different types of dialysis that are available.
Dialysis is a life-saving treatment for people with kidney failure. Learn about the different types of dialysis that are available.
Anemia Symptoms
The kidneys are responsible for making a hormone called erythropoetin, which tells your body to make red blood cells. As the kidneys fail, they make less erythropoetin anemia results.
The kidneys are responsible for making a hormone called erythropoetin, which tells your body to make red blood cells. As the kidneys fail, they make less erythropoetin anemia results.
Function of Proteins
Protein is a critical component of all cells and is involved in practically every function performed by them.
Protein is a critical component of all cells and is involved in practically every function performed by them.
Horseshoe Kidney
Birth defects involving the kidneys are relatively rare. Horseshoe kidney is one of the more common ones and occurs in approximately 1 in every 400 births.
Birth defects involving the kidneys are relatively rare. Horseshoe kidney is one of the more common ones and occurs in approximately 1 in every 400 births.
Kidney Injury
The kidneys are located deep in the abdomen and well protected by back muscles and the rib cage. Despite this, kidney injury can still happen.
The kidneys are located deep in the abdomen and well protected by back muscles and the rib cage. Despite this, kidney injury can still happen.
Chinese Herb & Kidney Disease
Certain chinese herb medicines containing aristolochic acid can cause kidney failure and cancers of the urinary tract.
Certain chinese herb medicines containing aristolochic acid can cause kidney failure and cancers of the urinary tract.
Kidney Disease Introduction
Kidney disease is a very broad topic that covers thousands of conditions. In many cases, it also refers to chronic kidney disease regardless of the cause.
Kidney disease is a very broad topic that covers thousands of conditions. In many cases, it also refers to chronic kidney disease regardless of the cause.
UTI Overview
Had a recent episode of a urinary tract infection? Get a brief overview of this common but annoying disease.
Had a recent episode of a urinary tract infection? Get a brief overview of this common but annoying disease.
Diastolic Blood Pressure
Definition of diastolic blood pressure.
Definition of diastolic blood pressure.
GFR Equation Limitations
Kidney function is often estimated using the MDRD equation to estimate GFR. Since the MDRD equation is only an estimation, it has its limitations.
Kidney function is often estimated using the MDRD equation to estimate GFR. Since the MDRD equation is only an estimation, it has its limitations.
CKD Staging
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects millions of people. Learn about the five stages of chronic kidney disease.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects millions of people. Learn about the five stages of chronic kidney disease.
Protein Barrier
I was recently told that I have protein in my urine and that this is not normal. How does the kidney normally keep protein out of the urine?
I was recently told that I have protein in my urine and that this is not normal. How does the kidney normally keep protein out of the urine?
Renal Cortex
The renal cortex is the outer shell of the kidney between the capsule and the medulla.
The renal cortex is the outer shell of the kidney between the capsule and the medulla.
HCV & Proteinuria
I saw a kidney doctor because I have protein in the urine. She said she couldn't be sure but thought it might be because I have hepatitis C (HCV).
I saw a kidney doctor because I have protein in the urine. She said she couldn't be sure but thought it might be because I have hepatitis C (HCV).
Cystine Kidney Stones
Cystine kidney stones are relatively rare compared to other types of kidney stones because they are caused by a rare and inheritable disease called cystinuria.
Cystine kidney stones are relatively rare compared to other types of kidney stones because they are caused by a rare and inheritable disease called cystinuria.
Nephrotic Syndrome
Nephrotic syndrome is a condition associated with a large loss of protein in the urine (proteinuria). It typically occurs when over 3.5 grams of protein is lost per day.
Nephrotic syndrome is a condition associated with a large loss of protein in the urine (proteinuria). It typically occurs when over 3.5 grams of protein is lost per day.
Renal Tubule System
The renal tubule system is the part of the nephron that is responsible for recovering much of the things that were too small to be filtered out and the body can’t afford to lose.
The renal tubule system is the part of the nephron that is responsible for recovering much of the things that were too small to be filtered out and the body can’t afford to lose.
24-Hour Urine Collection
Diagnostic testing that involves collecting urine over a 24-hour period.
Diagnostic testing that involves collecting urine over a 24-hour period.
Diagnosis of Kidney Failure
The diagnosis of kidney failure is made by looking at certain lab results. The most commonly used are serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN).
The diagnosis of kidney failure is made by looking at certain lab results. The most commonly used are serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN).
Glomerular Proteinuria
Refers to protein in the urine (proteinuria) caused by damage to the kidney’s main filtering device (glomerulus).
Refers to protein in the urine (proteinuria) caused by damage to the kidney’s main filtering device (glomerulus).
KiNormal Kidney Structure
Have you been told there is something different about your kidneys and you are not sure what normal kidneys are suppose to be like? Learn the basic characteristics of the kidneys.
Have you been told there is something different about your kidneys and you are not sure what normal kidneys are suppose to be like? Learn the basic characteristics of the kidneys.
Types of Kidney Cancer
There are may different types of kidney cancer but here are the most common.
There are may different types of kidney cancer but here are the most common.
Urine Sediment
The part of the urine that contains the cells and other solid materials such as casts, crystals, and organisms.
The part of the urine that contains the cells and other solid materials such as casts, crystals, and organisms.
Kidney Anatomy
Knowing something about the structural parts of the kidney is important for understanding radiology tests and invasive procedures.
Knowing something about the structural parts of the kidney is important for understanding radiology tests and invasive procedures.
E. Coli & Kidney Failure
E. Coli O157:H7 is an important cause of kidney failure in children.
E. Coli O157:H7 is an important cause of kidney failure in children.
Transient Proteinuria
Refers to the temporary (or transient) excretion of protein in the urine (proteinuria).
Refers to the temporary (or transient) excretion of protein in the urine (proteinuria).
Topamax and Kidney Stones
Although not widely appreciated, the migraine drug Topamax can increase the risk of getting certain kidney stones.
Although not widely appreciated, the migraine drug Topamax can increase the risk of getting certain kidney stones.
High BP Complications
High blood pressure is an important cause of heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease. Learn about the complications of high blood pressure.
High blood pressure is an important cause of heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease. Learn about the complications of high blood pressure.
Principles of Hemodialysis
Dialysis is a remarkably simple process that help replace some of the key functions of the kidneys. Hemodialysis is the most common form of dialysis.
Dialysis is a remarkably simple process that help replace some of the key functions of the kidneys. Hemodialysis is the most common form of dialysis.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is an important cause of heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease. Learn more about high blood pressure with this overview
High blood pressure is an important cause of heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease. Learn more about high blood pressure with this overview
Kidney Transplant Issues
Kidney transplant is usually a better alternative to dialysis. Learn the basics of the kidney transplant here.
Kidney transplant is usually a better alternative to dialysis. Learn the basics of the kidney transplant here.
MPGN
A type of kidney disease usually leading to progressive kidney failure.
A type of kidney disease usually leading to progressive kidney failure.
Basic Nutrients
Nutrition is of critical importance to someone with kidney disease or kidney failure.
Nutrition is of critical importance to someone with kidney disease or kidney failure.
Membranous Nephropathy
Membranous nephropathy (also called “membranous”) is one of the most common causes of nephrotic syndrome in adults without diabetes.
Membranous nephropathy (also called “membranous”) is one of the most common causes of nephrotic syndrome in adults without diabetes.
Vanco in HD
Vancomycin is an important drug in the treatment of infections in dialysis patients. The increased efficiency of dialyzer treatments over the last decade or so has led to a change in the way it is given.
Vancomycin is an important drug in the treatment of infections in dialysis patients. The increased efficiency of dialyzer treatments over the last decade or so has led to a change in the way it is given.
HBV & Proteinuria
I was sent to a kidney doctor because I have protein in the urine. He said it might be because I am a hepatitis B carrier.
I was sent to a kidney doctor because I have protein in the urine. He said it might be because I am a hepatitis B carrier.
Albumin
The largest single protein in the blood (or serum).
The largest single protein in the blood (or serum).
Kidney Disease Problems
Hundreds of different diseases and conditions can cause kidney problems. Before figuring out what is causing a kidney problem, you need to know what the kidney problem is first.
Hundreds of different diseases and conditions can cause kidney problems. Before figuring out what is causing a kidney problem, you need to know what the kidney problem is first.
PKD
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder that produces multiple cysts in the kidneys. Over time the cysts multiply and grow, resulting in relentless destruction of the kidneys and kidney failure.
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder that produces multiple cysts in the kidneys. Over time the cysts multiply and grow, resulting in relentless destruction of the kidneys and kidney failure.
Renal Medulla
The renal medulla is the innermost area of the kidney.
The renal medulla is the innermost area of the kidney.
Hyperlipidemia
The medical term for an elevated level of fat (lipids) in the blood.
The medical term for an elevated level of fat (lipids) in the blood.
Kidney Biopsy Indications
A kidney biopsy is an important for the diagnosis of kidney diseases. Learn about the indications for a kidney biopsy.
A kidney biopsy is an important for the diagnosis of kidney diseases. Learn about the indications for a kidney biopsy.
Urinary Tract System
Ever wonder how urine makes it from the kidneys to outside your body? Learn about organs that makes it possible to urinate.
Ever wonder how urine makes it from the kidneys to outside your body? Learn about organs that makes it possible to urinate.
Salicylate Poisoning
Salicylate poisoning can be fatal if not recognized early and treated aggressively. Learn more about salicylate toxicity, how a salicylate overdose can be recognized, and how it is treated.
Salicylate poisoning can be fatal if not recognized early and treated aggressively. Learn more about salicylate toxicity, how a salicylate overdose can be recognized, and how it is treated.
Risk Factors For Kidney Stones
Are you at risk for kidney stones? Here are six steps to help you find out.
Are you at risk for kidney stones? Here are six steps to help you find out.
First Visit To Kidney Doctor
Seeing the kidney doctor for the first time is not that much different than seeing any other doctor except their attention will be focused principally on the kidney.
Seeing the kidney doctor for the first time is not that much different than seeing any other doctor except their attention will be focused principally on the kidney.
High and Sodium Intake
High blood pressure is an important cause of heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease. Learn about high blood pressure and sodium or salt (sodium chloride) intake.
High blood pressure is an important cause of heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease. Learn about high blood pressure and sodium or salt (sodium chloride) intake.
Standard Blood Tests
There are dozens of different blood tests used in kidney disease. Here are the most commonly ordered kidney-related blood tests.
There are dozens of different blood tests used in kidney disease. Here are the most commonly ordered kidney-related blood tests.
Diabetic Nephropathy
Diabetic nephropathy or kidney disease is one of the most important causes of kidney failure. Learn more about diabetic nephropathy with this overview.
Diabetic nephropathy or kidney disease is one of the most important causes of kidney failure. Learn more about diabetic nephropathy with this overview.
Aspirin CKD
Health care providers are less likely to prescribe aspirin to someone with chronic kidney disease. Because of the high rate of cardiovascular disease in chronic kidney disease, the benefits of taking a low-dose daily aspirin daily usually outweigh the risks.
Health care providers are less likely to prescribe aspirin to someone with chronic kidney disease. Because of the high rate of cardiovascular disease in chronic kidney disease, the benefits of taking a low-dose daily aspirin daily usually outweigh the risks.
Overflow Proteinuria
Refers to protein in the urine (proteinuria) caused by the kidney’s urine modifying system (tubules) being overwhelmed.
Refers to protein in the urine (proteinuria) caused by the kidney’s urine modifying system (tubules) being overwhelmed.
Kidney Histology
A brief description of those parts of the kidney that are too small to be seen without a microscope. They make up the functional parts of the kidney.
A brief description of those parts of the kidney that are too small to be seen without a microscope. They make up the functional parts of the kidney.
Kidney Biopsy Risks
A kidney biopsy is an important for the diagnosis of kidney diseases. Learn about the risks and complications of a kidney biopsy.
A kidney biopsy is an important for the diagnosis of kidney diseases. Learn about the risks and complications of a kidney biopsy.
Tubular Proteinuria
Refers to protein in the urine (proteinuria) caused by damage to the kidney’s urine modifying system (tubules).
Refers to protein in the urine (proteinuria) caused by damage to the kidney’s urine modifying system (tubules).
Kidney Biopsy Tips
Do you have a kidney biopsy planned? Use these tips to get the best results with the least aggravation.
Do you have a kidney biopsy planned? Use these tips to get the best results with the least aggravation.
Kidney Cancer Diagnosis
Kidney cancer is a serious diagnosis. Learn about the tests used in the diagnosis of kidney cancer.
Kidney cancer is a serious diagnosis. Learn about the tests used in the diagnosis of kidney cancer.
High Blood Pressure Types
High blood pressure is an important cause of heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease. Learn about the different types of high blood pressure.
High blood pressure is an important cause of heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease. Learn about the different types of high blood pressure.
Introduction to the Kidneys
To better understand kidney diseases, it helps to have a good understanding of the kidneys. Here are some of the basics of these complex and amazing organs.
To better understand kidney diseases, it helps to have a good understanding of the kidneys. Here are some of the basics of these complex and amazing organs.
Catherization and Kidneys
A recent study in the New England Journal of Medicine reports that patients who received N-Acetylcysteine when undergoing heart (cardiac) angioplasty for a heart attack may be protected from contrast-induced kidney failure.
A recent study in the New England Journal of Medicine reports that patients who received N-Acetylcysteine when undergoing heart (cardiac) angioplasty for a heart attack may be protected from contrast-induced kidney failure.
Normal Bladder Voiding
The filling up and emptying of our bladder is an important part of urinating. In order to evaluate a voiding problem, such as frequent urinating (urinary frequency) or urinary incontinence, it is important to have a good understanding of normal bladder voiding.
The filling up and emptying of our bladder is an important part of urinating. In order to evaluate a voiding problem, such as frequent urinating (urinary frequency) or urinary incontinence, it is important to have a good understanding of normal bladder voiding.
Red Blood Cells
Red blood cells make up the largest single component of our blood and they a critical role in keeping us alive.
Red blood cells make up the largest single component of our blood and they a critical role in keeping us alive.
Prednisone
Predisone is prescribed to minimizize or prevent your body's immune reaction to something within in your body. It is commonly used for kidney transplanation and diseases causing inflammation of the kidneys.
Predisone is prescribed to minimizize or prevent your body's immune reaction to something within in your body. It is commonly used for kidney transplanation and diseases causing inflammation of the kidneys.
Black Market Kidneys
Going abroad to obtain black market kidneys can be extremely dangerous and even deadly. Black market kidneys put transplant tourists at high risk.
Going abroad to obtain black market kidneys can be extremely dangerous and even deadly. Black market kidneys put transplant tourists at high risk.
Edema
Swelling due to an extra accumulation of fluid.
Swelling due to an extra accumulation of fluid.
Vascular Access
Dialysis is a life-saving treatment for people with kidney failure. Learn about the different types of vascular access used in hemodialysis.
Dialysis is a life-saving treatment for people with kidney failure. Learn about the different types of vascular access used in hemodialysis.
Kidney Cancer Risk Factors
Kidney cancer is a serious diagnosis. Learn about the risk factors for kidney cancer.
Kidney cancer is a serious diagnosis. Learn about the risk factors for kidney cancer.
Cause of Anemia in CKD
Anemia is an extremely common complication of kidney disease. The worse your kidney function, the more likely it is to occur. By the time the kidneys totally fail, most people suffer from it and require treatment.
Anemia is an extremely common complication of kidney disease. The worse your kidney function, the more likely it is to occur. By the time the kidneys totally fail, most people suffer from it and require treatment.
UTI Symptoms
The symptoms of urinary tract infections (UTI) are notorious for being painful and annoying.
The symptoms of urinary tract infections (UTI) are notorious for being painful and annoying.
When May Dialysis Be Not Ok?
With the universal availability of dialysis in the United States, withholding dialysis from someone with severe kidney failure can be very difficult. There are times when starting or continuing someone on dialysis, particularly hemodialysis, can be considered inappropriate.
With the universal availability of dialysis in the United States, withholding dialysis from someone with severe kidney failure can be very difficult. There are times when starting or continuing someone on dialysis, particularly hemodialysis, can be considered inappropriate.
GBM
The glomerular basement membrane (GBM) is a key part of the glomerulus's ability to filter blood to make urine.
The glomerular basement membrane (GBM) is a key part of the glomerulus's ability to filter blood to make urine.
Symptoms of Membranous
Membranous nephropathy symptoms are usually due to a loss of protein in the urine (called proteinuria).
Membranous nephropathy symptoms are usually due to a loss of protein in the urine (called proteinuria).
Kidney Doctor Training
Been told you have to see a kidney doctor? Learn want it takes to become a kidney doctor or a nephrologist.
Been told you have to see a kidney doctor? Learn want it takes to become a kidney doctor or a nephrologist.
Working Up Hypertension
High blood pressure is an important cause of heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease. Learn when you should get worked up for secondary high blood pressure.
High blood pressure is an important cause of heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease. Learn when you should get worked up for secondary high blood pressure.
Kidney Failure & Medications
The kidneys play a major role in breaking down and removing drug from the body. Kidney failure may require you to stop or adjusy many of your medications.
The kidneys play a major role in breaking down and removing drug from the body. Kidney failure may require you to stop or adjusy many of your medications.
Lipids in the Urine
Lipids in the urine (lipiduria) is a sign of significant protein in the urine from nephrotic syndrome and kidney disease.
Lipids in the urine (lipiduria) is a sign of significant protein in the urine from nephrotic syndrome and kidney disease.
Refusing Dialysis
It is well established in common law, as well as federal and constitutional law, that a person has the legal right to refuse dialysis.
It is well established in common law, as well as federal and constitutional law, that a person has the legal right to refuse dialysis.
Standard Urine Tests
Testing the urine can help assess how well your kidneys are functioning as well as offer important clues to many different kinds of kidney disease.
Testing the urine can help assess how well your kidneys are functioning as well as offer important clues to many different kinds of kidney disease.
Kidney Biopsy Contraindication
A kidney biopsy is an important for the diagnosis of kidney diseases. Learn about the contraindications for a kidney biopsy.
A kidney biopsy is an important for the diagnosis of kidney diseases. Learn about the contraindications for a kidney biopsy.
Staging of Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer is a serious diagnosis. Learn how renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer) is staged.
Kidney cancer is a serious diagnosis. Learn how renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer) is staged.
Proximal Tubule
The proximal tubule in an important part of the tubular system.
The proximal tubule in an important part of the tubular system.
NS Complications
Nephrotic syndrome causes low protein levels in the blood and loss of certain types of protein.
Nephrotic syndrome causes low protein levels in the blood and loss of certain types of protein.
Distal Tubule
The distal tubule is the part of the kidney nephron that is between the loop of Henle and the collecting duct system.
The distal tubule is the part of the kidney nephron that is between the loop of Henle and the collecting duct system.
Systolic Blood Pressure
Systolic blood pressure (SBP) is a measurement of the force applied to your artery walls when your heart contracts.
Systolic blood pressure (SBP) is a measurement of the force applied to your artery walls when your heart contracts.
MRA
Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is a radiology test to study blood vessels, particularly those in the head, neck, lungs, kidneys and legs.
Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is a radiology test to study blood vessels, particularly those in the head, neck, lungs, kidneys and legs.
Pyuria
The medical term for “white blood cells in the urine.”
The medical term for “white blood cells in the urine.”
MRSA & Dialysis
An infection with Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a serious complication of dialysis. Learn more about MRSA infections in dialysis patients.
An infection with Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a serious complication of dialysis. Learn more about MRSA infections in dialysis patients.
UTI Prevention
Urinary tract infections are common and literally a pain. There are a number of steps you can do to help prevent a urinary tract infection.
Urinary tract infections are common and literally a pain. There are a number of steps you can do to help prevent a urinary tract infection.
Medullary Pyramid
The medullary pyramid is part of the inner kidney.
The medullary pyramid is part of the inner kidney.
Kidney Failure & DEG
Over the last 70 years, hundreds - if not thousands - of people have died from kidney failure due to diethylene glycol (DEG) poisoning. It usually occurs from pharmaceutical counterfeits involving glycerine (or glycerol).
Over the last 70 years, hundreds - if not thousands - of people have died from kidney failure due to diethylene glycol (DEG) poisoning. It usually occurs from pharmaceutical counterfeits involving glycerine (or glycerol).
Juxtaglomerular Apparatus
The juxtaglomerular apparatus is a grouping of specialized blood vessels and tubules that plays an important role in the control of blood pressure and blood volume.
The juxtaglomerular apparatus is a grouping of specialized blood vessels and tubules that plays an important role in the control of blood pressure and blood volume.
Loop of Henle
Loop of Henle is a very specialized part of the kidney tubule system.
Loop of Henle is a very specialized part of the kidney tubule system.
Vancomycin
Vancomycin is a powerful antibiotic and an important treatment of infections in dialysis patients.
Vancomycin is a powerful antibiotic and an important treatment of infections in dialysis patients.
UTI Risk Factors
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that involves one or more organs in the urinary tract system. There are a number of risk factors for urinary tract infections.
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that involves one or more organs in the urinary tract system. There are a number of risk factors for urinary tract infections.
Renal Pelvis
The renal pelvis is the area where the urine collects before entering the ureters.
The renal pelvis is the area where the urine collects before entering the ureters.
Sodium Intake & Kidney Stones
Limiting the amount of sodium to eat may help reduce your risk for certain types of kidney stones.
Limiting the amount of sodium to eat may help reduce your risk for certain types of kidney stones.
Mesangial Proliferative GN
A specific type of inflammation involving the proliferation of mesangial cells in the glomerulus.
A specific type of inflammation involving the proliferation of mesangial cells in the glomerulus.
High BP Risk Factors
High blood pressure is an important cause of heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease. Learn about the most common high blood pressure risk factors.
High blood pressure is an important cause of heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease. Learn about the most common high blood pressure risk factors.
Transplants & Cancer Risk
Patients undergoing a solid organ transplant are at an higher risk of cancer.
Patients undergoing a solid organ transplant are at an higher risk of cancer.
Anemia Glossary
A glossary of common medical terms for anemia.
A glossary of common medical terms for anemia.
Nephron
The nephron is the main functional part of the kidney.
The nephron is the main functional part of the kidney.
Fever & Cefazolin
Because of the higher risk of infections in dialysis patients, especially if they have a dialysis catheter, a fever is taken very seriously. In many cases, cefazolin should be used as a first-line treatment instead of vancomycin.
Because of the higher risk of infections in dialysis patients, especially if they have a dialysis catheter, a fever is taken very seriously. In many cases, cefazolin should be used as a first-line treatment instead of vancomycin.
Mesangial Cell
The mesangial cell play a supporting role in the glomerulus.
The mesangial cell play a supporting role in the glomerulus.
GFR
The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is an estimate of the filtering capacity of the kidneys.
The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is an estimate of the filtering capacity of the kidneys.
Urinalysis - Fatty Casts
Lipid or fat droplets found in urine casts.
Lipid or fat droplets found in urine casts.
Chronic Kidney Disease Defined
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects millions of people. Learn how chronic kidney disease is defined based on kidney function and kidney damage.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects millions of people. Learn how chronic kidney disease is defined based on kidney function and kidney damage.
Pregnancy and Dialysis
Most women on dialysis are unable to get pregnant. When dialysis patients do get pregnant, it is usually difficult and full of risk
Most women on dialysis are unable to get pregnant. When dialysis patients do get pregnant, it is usually difficult and full of risk
Issues in CKD
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects millions of people. Learn about important issues in chronic kidney disease.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects millions of people. Learn about important issues in chronic kidney disease.
FSGS
Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is scarring disease that affects only some glomeruli and in only some parts.
Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is scarring disease that affects only some glomeruli and in only some parts.
Glomerular Diseases
Kidney diseases that involve the glomerulus – the main filtering unit of the kidney.
Kidney diseases that involve the glomerulus – the main filtering unit of the kidney.
Renal Corpuscle
The renal corpuscle is a combination of the glomerulus and Bowman’s capsule.
The renal corpuscle is a combination of the glomerulus and Bowman’s capsule.