Chronic kidney disease involves persistent impairment of kidney structure or function. Assessment may include blood tests, urine analysis, blood pressure monitoring and evaluation of contributing conditions such as diabetes. Management aims to address underlying causes, monitor disease progression and reduce complications through an individualised care plan.
Acute kidney injury refers to a sudden decline in kidney function. It may occur with severe illness, dehydration, infection, medication effects or other medical problems. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity and may involve correcting fluid abnormalities, reviewing medicines and providing renal support when clinically required.
Kidney transplant evaluation assesses whether transplantation is an appropriate option for a patient with advanced kidney disease. The process may involve recipient assessment, donor compatibility investigations and coordinated specialist review. Nephrology care also contributes to medical optimisation before transplantation and monitoring of kidney function after the procedure.
Haemodialysis uses a specialised machine and filter to remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood when kidney function is insufficient. Treatment schedules and monitoring are individualised. A nephrologist assesses clinical needs, dialysis adequacy, fluid balance and potential complications as part of ongoing kidney failure management.
Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of the abdomen as a filtering membrane to remove waste and excess fluid. It may be suitable for selected patients with advanced kidney disease following clinical assessment and training. Treatment planning includes catheter-related care, infection prevention and regular monitoring of the patient's condition.
Critical care nephrology addresses kidney complications in seriously ill patients. Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) provides gradual, continuous removal of waste and fluid for selected critically ill patients with acute kidney injury. Decisions about renal support depend on haemodynamic status, laboratory findings and the overall clinical situation.
Diabetic kidney disease is a complication of diabetes that can progressively affect kidney function. Assessment may include kidney function tests, urine albumin measurements and blood pressure monitoring. Management commonly involves individualised diabetes control, appropriate blood pressure treatment, medication review and regular monitoring to help reduce the risk of progression.
Glomerular diseases affect the kidney's filtering structures, while polycystic kidney disease is associated with fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys. Investigation may include blood and urine tests, imaging and, in selected cases, a kidney biopsy. Diagnosis helps clinicians determine the appropriate monitoring and treatment strategy.
Resistant hypertension is blood pressure that remains above target despite an appropriate treatment regimen. Kidney disease can contribute to difficult-to-control blood pressure, and hypertension can also damage the kidneys. Evaluation may involve reviewing medications, assessing kidney function and investigating contributing causes before adjusting the management plan.
A kidney biopsy involves obtaining a small tissue sample to investigate selected kidney disorders. Ultrasound guidance can help clinicians identify the biopsy site. Dialysis catheter insertion provides access for specific dialysis treatments when indicated. These procedures require appropriate clinical assessment, informed consent and monitoring for potential complications.