Chronic kidney disease is a long-term condition in which kidney function gradually declines. Management focuses on identifying the underlying cause, monitoring kidney function, controlling blood pressure and managing diabetes or other contributing conditions. Medicines, dietary adjustments and regular follow-up may help slow disease progression and reduce complications.
Kidney transplant evaluation determines whether transplantation is a suitable treatment for a patient with advanced kidney disease. It includes assessing overall health, existing illnesses, cardiovascular risks and transplant-related investigations. A multidisciplinary transplant team evaluates eligibility, donor compatibility and the benefits and risks of transplantation.
Kidney transplant management involves coordinating the medical care of patients before and after transplantation. Nephrologists help evaluate transplant suitability, manage kidney function and monitor complications. Long-term care includes reviewing immunosuppressive medicines, screening for infections and monitoring for signs of organ rejection or reduced graft function.
Haemodialysis is a treatment that removes waste products and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys cannot perform these functions adequately. Blood passes through a dialysis machine and specialised filter before returning to the body. Treatment frequency and duration depend on the patient's medical condition and prescribed dialysis plan.
Dialysis management involves determining when kidney replacement therapy is needed and selecting an appropriate treatment approach. Nephrologists monitor fluid balance, blood pressure, blood test results and dialysis effectiveness. Planning may also include vascular access assessment, nutritional guidance and management of complications associated with long-term dialysis.
Acute kidney injury is a sudden reduction in kidney function that may develop due to dehydration, infection, medication effects or other medical conditions. Management focuses on identifying and treating the cause, monitoring fluid and electrolyte balance and avoiding further kidney damage. Severe cases may require temporary dialysis.
End-stage kidney disease occurs when kidney function becomes severely reduced and can no longer adequately support the body's needs. Treatment options may include haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, kidney transplantation or comprehensive conservative kidney care. Decisions depend on medical suitability, patient preferences and overall treatment goals.
Diabetic kidney disease is a complication of diabetes that can damage the kidneys over time. Assessment may involve kidney function tests and measurement of urine albumin. Treatment focuses on blood glucose control, blood pressure management, kidney-protective medication when appropriate and regular monitoring to reduce the risk of progression.
Uncontrolled high blood pressure can damage kidney blood vessels and contribute to chronic kidney disease. Kidney disease may also worsen hypertension. Management includes blood pressure monitoring, appropriate medication, dietary measures and periodic assessment of kidney function to limit further organ damage.
Electrolyte disorders involve abnormal blood levels of minerals such as sodium, potassium or calcium. These abnormalities may occur in kidney disease or with certain medications. Treatment depends on the cause and severity and may involve medication adjustments, fluid management or urgent hospital treatment when complications are significant.
Proteinuria refers to excess protein in urine and may indicate kidney damage. Evaluation commonly involves urine tests, kidney function assessment and investigation of possible causes such as diabetes, hypertension or glomerular disease. Treatment targets the underlying condition and may include kidney-protective medications and ongoing monitoring.
Patients who undergo kidney transplantation require long-term medical monitoring to maintain graft function and identify complications. Follow-up care may involve kidney function tests, immunosuppressive medication monitoring, blood pressure management and infection surveillance. Regular transplant team reviews help identify potential rejection or medication-related complications.
Patients receiving dialysis may develop complications including low blood pressure, fluid imbalance, electrolyte abnormalities or problems involving dialysis access. Management includes clinical assessment, adjustment of the dialysis prescription and treatment of associated medical conditions. Ongoing monitoring is important for dialysis safety and effectiveness.
Kidney function evaluation helps assess how effectively the kidneys filter waste products and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance. Common investigations include serum creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate, urine albumin testing and imaging when indicated. Results support diagnosis, disease staging, treatment planning and follow-up monitoring.