Chronic kidney disease develops when kidney structure or function remains abnormal for at least three months. It may be associated with diabetes, high blood pressure and other conditions. Management includes identifying the cause, controlling risk factors, monitoring kidney function and using appropriate medicines to slow disease progression.
Acute kidney injury is a sudden reduction in kidney function that may develop because of dehydration, infections, medications or other serious illnesses. Evaluation includes kidney function tests, urine investigations and assessment of potential causes. Treatment focuses on correcting reversible factors, managing complications and providing dialysis when medically necessary.
Diabetic nephropathy is kidney damage associated with diabetes. It may initially cause increased urinary albumin without noticeable symptoms and can progress to reduced kidney function. Treatment includes glucose and blood pressure management, kidney-protective medications when appropriate and regular monitoring of kidney function and urinary albumin.
Long-standing high blood pressure can damage the small blood vessels within the kidneys and contribute to chronic kidney disease. Kidney disease can also worsen hypertension. Management involves appropriate blood pressure targets, medication, dietary guidance and monitoring of kidney function, electrolytes and urinary protein levels.
Haemodialysis is a renal replacement treatment that filters waste products, excess fluid and certain electrolytes from the blood when kidney function is inadequate. Blood passes through a dialysis machine and filter before returning to the body. Treatment schedules and vascular access requirements depend on individual medical needs.
Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of the abdomen as a natural filter to remove waste products and excess fluid. Dialysis fluid is introduced into the abdominal cavity through a catheter and later drained. It may be an option for selected patients requiring long-term renal replacement therapy.
Kidney transplantation is a treatment option for eligible patients with advanced kidney failure. Assessment includes medical investigations, compatibility testing and evaluation of potential risks. After transplantation, patients require long-term monitoring of graft function, immunosuppressive medication and complications such as infection or rejection.
Polycystic kidney disease is commonly an inherited condition that causes numerous fluid-filled cysts to develop in the kidneys. It may lead to high blood pressure, kidney enlargement and gradual loss of kidney function. Care includes blood pressure management, monitoring kidney function and assessing eligibility for disease-specific treatment.
Kidney cysts are fluid-filled structures that may be discovered during ultrasound or other imaging investigations. Simple cysts often require no treatment, while complex or symptomatic cysts may need additional assessment. Management depends on imaging characteristics, kidney function, symptoms and the risk of complications.
Nephritis describes inflammation affecting kidney tissues. Glomerulonephritis involves inflammation or injury to the kidney's filtering units and may cause blood or protein in the urine, swelling and reduced kidney function. Evaluation may include blood tests, urine investigations and kidney biopsy when appropriate. Treatment depends on the underlying cause.
Proteinuria occurs when excessive protein passes into the urine and can indicate kidney damage. Albuminuria is a specific form involving albumin. Assessment includes urine testing, kidney function measurements and evaluation of underlying conditions such as diabetes or hypertension. Management focuses on protecting kidney function and treating the cause.
Elevated blood creatinine may indicate reduced kidney filtration, although results also depend on muscle mass and other factors. Evaluation considers estimated glomerular filtration rate, previous results, urine findings, medications and clinical symptoms. Treatment depends on identifying the cause and addressing reversible or progressive kidney dysfunction.
The kidneys help regulate electrolyte levels, including sodium and potassium. Kidney dysfunction can lead to abnormalities that affect muscle function, fluid balance and heart rhythm. Management involves identifying the cause, correcting electrolyte disturbances safely and monitoring kidney function and associated medical conditions.
Fluid retention can cause swelling of the legs, face or other parts of the body when the kidneys cannot effectively regulate fluid and salt balance. Evaluation includes kidney function assessment, urine tests and investigation of possible cardiac or liver-related causes. Treatment is directed at the underlying condition.
An arteriovenous fistula is a surgically created connection between an artery and a vein that provides vascular access for haemodialysis. Assessment includes evaluating blood vessels and planning access according to anticipated dialysis needs. Creation is typically performed by an appropriately trained vascular or access surgeon, with nephrology coordination.
A tunnelled dialysis catheter may be used to provide vascular access when haemodialysis is needed and an alternative access route is not immediately available or suitable. Placement and management require sterile technique and monitoring for infection, clotting and catheter dysfunction. Access choice depends on the patient's clinical circumstances.