Nephrology
Nephrology focuses on kidney function and treatment. In addition to treating primary kidney disorders, tubuloinstitial kidney diseases, tubular defects, and the effect of toxins on kidneys, nephrologists also address hypertension and dialysis.
Diseases & Conditions
Acidosis
Acidosis is a condition in which there is too much acid in the body fluids. It is the opposite of alkalosis (a condition in which there is too much base in the body fluids). alkalosis
Diseases & Conditions
Acute arterial occlusion - kidney
Acute arterial occlusion of the kidney is a sudden, severe blockage of the artery that supplies blood to the kidney.
Diseases & Conditions
Acute kidney failure
Acute kidney failure is the rapid (less than 2 days) loss of your kidneys' ability to remove waste and help balance fluids and electrolytes in your body. electrolytes
Diseases & Conditions
Acute nephritic syndrome
Acute nephritic syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur with some disorders that cause swelling and inflammation of the glomeruli in the kidney, or glomerulonephritis. glomerulonephritis
Diseases & Conditions
Acute tubular necrosis
Acute tubular necrosis (ATN) is a kidney disorder involving damage to the tubule cells of the kidneys, which can lead to acute kidney failure. The tubules are tiny ducts in the kidneys that help filter...
Diseases & Conditions
Alkalosis
Alkalosis is a condition in which the body fluids have excess base (alkali). This is the opposite of excess acid (acidosis). acidosis
Diseases & Conditions
Alport syndrome
Alport syndrome is a rare inherited disorder that damages the tiny blood vessels in the kidneys. It can also cause hearing loss and eye problems.
Diseases & Conditions
Analgesic nephropathy
Analgesic nephropathy involves damage to one or both kidneys caused by overexposure to mixtures of medicines, especially over-the-counter pain medicines (analgesics).
Diseases & Conditions
Anti-glomerular basement membrane disease
Anti-glomerular basement membrane disease (anti-GBM disease) is a rare disorder that can involve quickly worsening kidney failure and lung disease. quickly worsening kidney failure Some forms of the disease...
Diseases & Conditions
Atheroembolic renal disease
Atheroembolic renal disease (AERD) occurs when small particles made of hardened cholesterol and fat spread to the small blood vessels of the kidneys.
Diseases & Conditions
Autosomal dominant tubulointerstitial kidney disease
Autosomal dominant tubulointerstitial kidney disease (ADTKD) is a group of inherited conditions that affect the tubules of the kidneys, causing the kidneys to gradually lose their ability to work.
Diseases & Conditions
Bartter syndrome
Bartter syndrome is a group of rare conditions that affect the kidneys.
Diseases & Conditions
Bilateral hydronephrosis
Bilateral hydronephrosis is the enlargement of the parts of the kidney that collect urine. Bilateral means both sides.
Diseases & Conditions
Central diabetes insipidus
Central diabetes insipidus is a rare condition that involves extreme thirst and excessive urination.
Diseases & Conditions
Chronic kidney disease
Chronic kidney disease is the slow loss of kidney function over time. The main job of the kidneys is to remove wastes and excess water from the body.
Diseases & Conditions
Congenital nephrotic syndrome
Congenital nephrotic syndrome is a disorder that is passed down through families in which a baby develops protein in the urine and swelling of the body.
Diseases & Conditions
Cystinuria
Cystinuria is a rare condition in which stones made from an amino acid called cysteine form in the kidney, ureter, or bladder. Cystine is formed when two molecules of an amino acid called cysteine are bound...
Diseases & Conditions
Diabetes and kidney disease
Kidney disease or kidney damage often occurs over time in people with diabetes. This type of kidney disease is called diabetic nephropathy.
Diseases & Conditions
Diabetes insipidus
Diabetes insipidus (DI) is an uncommon condition in which the kidneys are unable to prevent the excretion of water. DI is not the same as diabetes mellitus types 1 and 2. However, untreated, both DI and...
Diseases & Conditions
Distal renal tubular acidosis
Distal renal tubular acidosis is a disease that occurs when the kidneys do not properly remove acids from the blood into the urine. As a result, too much acid remains in the blood (called acidosis). acidosis
Diseases & Conditions
End-stage kidney disease
End-stage kidney disease (ESKD) is the last stage of long-term (chronic) kidney disease. This is when your kidneys can no longer support your body's needs. long-term (chronic) kidney disease End-stage kidney...
Diseases & Conditions
Fanconi syndrome
Fanconi syndrome is a disorder of the kidney tubes in which certain substances normally absorbed into the bloodstream by the kidneys are released into the urine instead.
Diseases & Conditions
Fluid imbalance
Every part of your body needs water to function. When you are healthy, your body is able to balance the amount of water that enters or leaves your body. A fluid imbalance may occur when you lose more water...
Diseases & Conditions
Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis is scar tissue in the filtering unit of the kidney. This structure is called the glomerulus. The glomeruli serve as filters that help the body get rid of harmful substances...
Diseases & Conditions
Glomerulonephritis
Glomerulonephritis is a type of kidney disease in which the part of your kidneys that helps filter waste and fluids from the blood is damaged.
Diseases & Conditions
High potassium level
High potassium level is a problem in which the amount of potassium in the blood is higher than normal. The medical name of this condition is hyperkalemia.
Diseases & Conditions
Hyperkalemic periodic paralysis
Hyperkalemic periodic paralysis (hyperPP) is a disorder that causes occasional episodes of muscle weakness and sometimes a higher than normal level of potassium in the blood. The medical name for high potassium...
Diseases & Conditions
Hypokalemic periodic paralysis
Hypokalemic periodic paralysis (hypoPP) is a disorder that causes occasional episodes of muscle weakness and sometimes a lower than normal level of potassium in the blood. The medical name for low potassium...
Diseases & Conditions
Hypophosphatemia
Hypophosphatemia is a low level of phosphorus (phosphate) in the blood. phosphorus
Diseases & Conditions
Idiopathic hypercalciuria
Idiopathic hypercalciuria is the presence of excess calcium in the urine without an identified cause after testing for common causes. This condition can lead to kidney stones, osteoporosis, or in extreme...
Diseases & Conditions
IgA nephropathy
IgA nephropathy is a kidney disorder in which antibodies (called IgA) build up in kidney tissue. Nephropathy is damage, disease, or other problems with the kidney. IgA nephropathy is also called Berger...
Diseases & Conditions
Interstitial nephritis
Interstitial nephritis is a kidney disorder in which the spaces between the kidney tubules become swollen (inflamed). This can cause problems with the way your kidneys work.
Diseases & Conditions
Low blood sodium
Low blood sodium is a condition in which the sodium level in the blood is lower than normal. The medical name of this condition is hyponatremia.
Diseases & Conditions
Lupus nephritis
Lupus nephritis, which is a kidney disorder, is a complication of systemic lupus erythematosus. systemic lupus erythematosus
Diseases & Conditions
Magnesium deficiency
Magnesium deficiency is a condition in which the amount of magnesium in the blood is lower than normal. The medical name of this condition is hypomagnesemia.
Diseases & Conditions
Malignant hypertension
Malignant hypertension is very high blood pressure that comes on suddenly and quickly. high blood pressure
Diseases & Conditions
Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis
Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis is a kidney disorder that involves inflammation and changes to kidney cells. It may lead to kidney failure. kidney failure
Diseases & Conditions
Membranous nephropathy
Membranous nephropathy is a kidney disorder that leads to changes and inflammation of the structures inside the kidney that help filter wastes and fluids. The inflammation may lead to problems with kidney...
Diseases & Conditions
Meningitis - cryptococcal
Cryptococcal meningitis is a fungal infection of the tissues covering the brain and spinal cord. These tissues are called meninges. meningitis
Diseases & Conditions
Milk-alkali syndrome
Milk-alkali syndrome is a condition in which there is a high level of calcium in the body (hypercalcemia). This causes a shift in the body's acid/base balance toward alkaline (metabolic alkalosis). As a...
Diseases & Conditions
Minimal change disease
Minimal change disease is a kidney disorder that can lead to nephrotic syndrome. Nephrotic syndrome is a group of symptoms that include protein in the urine, low blood protein levels in the blood, high...
Diseases & Conditions
Nephrocalcinosis
Nephrocalcinosis is a disorder in which there is too much calcium deposited in the kidneys. It is common in premature babies.
Diseases & Conditions
Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus
Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (NDI) is a disorder in which a defect in the small tubes (tubules) in the kidneys causes a person to pass a large amount of urine and lose too much water.
Diseases & Conditions
Nephrotic syndrome
Nephrotic syndrome is a group of symptoms and abnormal test results that include protein in the urine, low blood protein levels in the blood, high cholesterol levels, high triglyceride levels, increased...
Diseases & Conditions
Osmotic diuresis
Osmotic diuresis is increased urination due to the presence of certain substances in the fluid filtered by the kidneys. This fluid eventually becomes urine. The process of osmosis created by these substances...
Diseases & Conditions
Polycystic kidney disease
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a kidney disorder passed down through families. In this disease, many cysts form in the kidneys, causing them to become enlarged.
Diseases & Conditions
Poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis (GN)
Poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis (GN) is a kidney disorder that occurs after infection with certain strains of streptococcus bacteria.
Diseases & Conditions
Prerenal azotemia
Prerenal azotemia is an abnormally high level of nitrogen waste products in the blood.
Diseases & Conditions
Proximal renal tubular acidosis
Proximal renal tubular acidosis is a disease that occurs when the kidneys don't properly remove acids from the blood into the urine. As a result, too much acid remains in the blood (called acidosis). acidosis
Diseases & Conditions
Reflux nephropathy
Reflux nephropathy is a condition in which the kidneys are damaged by the backward flow of urine into the kidney.
Diseases & Conditions
Renal and urological disorders
A renal disorder refers to any disease of the kidneys. Urological disorders are diseases of the kidneys and urinary tract. This includes the kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder, and urethra, as well as the...
Diseases & Conditions
Renal papillary necrosis
Renal papillary necrosis is a disorder of the kidneys in which all or part of the renal papillae die. The renal papillae are the areas where the openings of the collecting ducts enter the kidney and where...
Diseases & Conditions
Renal vein thrombosis
Renal vein thrombosis is a blood clot that develops in the vein that drains blood from the kidney. blood clot
Diseases & Conditions
Renovascular hypertension
Renovascular hypertension is high blood pressure due to narrowing of the arteries that carry blood to the kidneys. This condition is also called renal artery stenosis. high blood pressure
Diseases & Conditions
Rhabdomyolysis
Rhabdomyolysis is the breakdown of muscle tissue that leads to the release of muscle fiber contents into the blood. These substances are harmful to the kidney and often cause kidney damage.
Diseases & Conditions
Schistosomiasis
Schistosomiasis is an infection with a type of blood fluke parasite called schistosomes.
Special Topics
Dialysis - hemodialysis
Artificial kidneys - hemodialysis; Dialysis; Renal replacement therapy - hemodialysis; End-stage renal disease - hemodialysis; Kidney failure - hemodialysis; Renal failure - hemodialysis; Chronic kidney...
Special Topics
Dialysis centers - what to expect
Artificial kidneys - dialysis centers; Dialysis - what to expect; Renal replacement therapy - dialysis centers; End-stage renal disease - dialysis centers; Kidney failure - dialysis centers; Renal failure...
Special Topics
Electrolytes
Electrolytes are minerals in your blood and other body fluids that carry an electric charge. Electrolytes affect how your body functions in many ways, including: The amount of water in your bodyThe acidity...
Special Topics
Kidney disease - resources
Special Topics
Pharmacogenetics
Pharmacogenetics is the study of how genes affect the way medicines work in a person. Your health care provider can use the information from pharmacogenetic testing to prescribe medicines that will work...
Special Topics
Renal
The term "renal" refers to the kidney. For example, renal failure means kidney failure. Related topics: Kidney diseaseKidney disease - dietKidney failureKidney function testsRenal scanKidney transplant...
Surgery
Dialysis - peritoneal
Dialysis treats end-stage kidney failure. It removes harmful substances from the blood when the kidneys cannot. This article focuses on peritoneal dialysis.
Surgery
Hemodialysis access procedures
Vascular access (often called just "access") is needed for you to get hemodialysis. The access is where you receive hemodialysis. Using the access, blood is removed from your body, cleaned by the dialysis...
Tests
24-hour urine protein
A 24-hour urine protein measures the amount of protein released in urine over a 24-hour period.
Tests
Acid loading test (pH)
The acid loading test (pH) measures the ability of the kidneys to send acid to the urine when there is too much acid in the blood. This test involves both a blood test and urine test.
Tests
Albumin blood (serum) test
Albumin is a protein made by the liver. A serum albumin test measures the amount of this protein in the clear liquid portion of the blood. Albumin can also be measured in the urine. urine
Tests
Anti-glomerular basement membrane blood test
The glomerular basement membrane is the part of the kidney that helps filter waste and extra fluid from the blood. Anti-glomerular basement membrane antibodies are antibodies against this membrane. They...
Tests
BUN - blood test
BUN stands for blood urea nitrogen. Urea nitrogen is what forms when protein breaks down. A test can be done to measure the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood.
Tests
Calcium - ionized
Ionized calcium is calcium in your blood that is not attached to proteins. It is also called free calcium. All cells need calcium in order to work. Calcium helps build strong bones and teeth. It is important...
Tests
Calcium - urine
This test measures the amount of calcium in the urine. All cells need calcium in order to work. Calcium helps build strong bones and teeth. It is important for heart function, and helps with muscle contraction...
Tests
Chloride - urine test
The urine chloride test measures the amount of chloride in the urine.
Tests
Citric acid urine test
Citric acid urine test measures the level of citric acid in urine.
Tests
Creatinine blood test
The creatinine blood test measures the level of creatinine in the blood. This test is done to see how well your kidneys are working. Creatinine in the urine can be measured with a urine test.
Tests
Creatinine clearance test
The creatinine clearance test helps provide information about how well the kidneys are working. The test compares the creatinine level in urine with the creatinine level in blood.
Tests
Creatinine urine test
The creatinine urine test measures the amount of creatinine in urine. This test is done to see how well your kidneys are working. Creatinine in the blood can be measured by a blood test.
Tests
Electrolytes - urine
The electrolytes - urine test measures specific chemicals called electrolytes in urine. It most often measures the levels of calcium, chloride, potassium, or sodium. electrolytes Related topics include...
Tests
Fractional excretion of sodium
Fractional excretion of sodium is the amount of salt (sodium) that leaves the body through urine compared to the amount filtered and reabsorbed by the kidney. Fractional excretion of sodium (FENa) is not...
Tests
Glomerular filtration rate
Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a test used to check how well the kidneys are working. Specifically, it estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli each minute. Glomeruli are the tiny filters...
Tests
Glucose urine test
The glucose urine test measures the amount of sugar (glucose) in a urine sample. The presence of glucose in the urine is called glycosuria or glucosuria. The glucose level can also be measured in other...
Tests
Hemoglobinuria test
Hemoglobinuria test is a urine test that checks for hemoglobin in the urine.
Tests
Ketones urine test
A ketone urine test measures the amount of ketones in the urine.
Tests
Kidney biopsy
A kidney biopsy is the removal of a small piece of kidney tissue for examination.
Tests
Kidney function tests
Kidney function tests are common lab tests used to evaluate how well the kidneys are working. Such tests include: BUN (Blood urea nitrogen) Creatinine - bloodCreatinine clearanceCreatinine - urine BUN ...
Tests
Osmolality blood test
Osmolality blood test is a test that measures the concentration of all chemical particles found in the fluid part of blood. Osmolality in the urine can be measured with a urine test. urine test
Tests
Osmolality urine test
The osmolality urine test measures the concentration of chemicals in urine. Osmolality in the blood can be measured using a blood test. blood test
Tests
Pharmacogenetic testing
Pharmacogenetic testing provides information about your genes and how they control your response to certain medicines. Your genes can affect the desired result of a drug. Your provider can use the information...
Tests
Potassium test
This test measures the amount of potassium in the fluid portion (serum) of the blood. Potassium (K+) helps nerves and muscles communicate. It also helps move nutrients into cells and waste products out...
Tests
Potassium urine test
The potassium urine test measures the amount of potassium in the urine.
Tests
Protein electrophoresis - serum
This lab test measures the types of protein in the fluid (serum) part of a blood sample. This fluid is called serum.
Tests
Quantitative nephelometry test
Quantitative nephelometry is a lab test to quickly and accurately measure levels of certain proteins called immunoglobulins in the blood. Immunoglobulins are antibodies that help fight infection. antibodies...
Tests
RBC urine test
The RBC urine test measures the number of red blood cells in a urine sample.
Tests
Renal arteriography
Renal arteriography is a special x-ray of the arteries of the kidneys.
Tests
Renal scan
A renal scan is a nuclear medicine exam in which a small amount of radioactive material (radioisotope) is used to measure the function of the kidneys. nuclear medicine
Tests
Renin blood test
The renin test measures the level of renin in blood.
Tests
Sodium urine test
The sodium urine test measures the amount of sodium the urine. Sodium can also be measured in a blood sample. blood sample
Tests
Total protein
The total protein test measures the total amount of two classes of proteins found in the fluid portion of your blood. These are albumin and globulin. Proteins are important parts of all cells and tissues...
Tests
Urea nitrogen urine test
Urine urea nitrogen is a test that measures the amount of urea in the urine. Urea is a waste product resulting from the breakdown of protein in the body.
Tests
Uric acid - blood
Uric acid is a chemical created when the body breaks down substances called purines. Purines are normally produced in the body and are also found in some foods and drinks. Foods with high content of purines...
Tests
Uric acid urine test
The uric acid urine test measures the level of uric acid in the urine. The uric acid blood level can be checked using a blood test.
Tests
Urinary casts
Urinary casts are tiny tube-shaped particles that can be found when urine is examined under the microscope during a test called urinalysis. urinalysis Urinary casts may be made up of white blood cells,...
Tests
Urine 24-hour volume
The urine 24-hour volume test measures the amount of urine produced in a day. The amounts of creatinine, protein, and other chemicals released into the urine during this period are usually tested as well...
Tests
Urine chemistry
Urine chemistry is a group of one or more tests done to check the chemical content of a urine sample.
Tests
Urine concentration test
A urine concentration test measures the ability of the kidneys to conserve or excrete water.
Tests
Urine pH test
A urine pH test measures the level of acid in urine.
Tests
Urine protein dipstick test
The urine protein dipstick test measures the presence of all proteins, including albumin, in a urine sample. Albumin and protein can also be measured using a blood test. blood test
Tests
Urine specific gravity test
Urine specific gravity is a laboratory test that shows the total concentration of all chemical particles in the urine.
Tests
24-hour urine protein
A 24-hour urine protein measures the amount of protein released in urine over a 24-hour period.
Tests
Acid loading test (pH)
The acid loading test (pH) measures the ability of the kidneys to send acid to the urine when there is too much acid in the blood. This test involves both a blood test and urine test.
Diseases & Conditions
Acidosis
Acidosis is a condition in which there is too much acid in the body fluids. It is the opposite of alkalosis (a condition in which there is too much base in the body fluids). alkalosis
Diseases & Conditions
Acute arterial occlusion - kidney
Acute arterial occlusion of the kidney is a sudden, severe blockage of the artery that supplies blood to the kidney.
Diseases & Conditions
Acute kidney failure
Acute kidney failure is the rapid (less than 2 days) loss of your kidneys' ability to remove waste and help balance fluids and electrolytes in your body. electrolytes
Diseases & Conditions
Acute nephritic syndrome
Acute nephritic syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur with some disorders that cause swelling and inflammation of the glomeruli in the kidney, or glomerulonephritis. glomerulonephritis
Diseases & Conditions
Acute tubular necrosis
Acute tubular necrosis (ATN) is a kidney disorder involving damage to the tubule cells of the kidneys, which can lead to acute kidney failure. The tubules are tiny ducts in the kidneys that help filter...
Tests
Albumin blood (serum) test
Albumin is a protein made by the liver. A serum albumin test measures the amount of this protein in the clear liquid portion of the blood. Albumin can also be measured in the urine. urine
Diseases & Conditions
Alkalosis
Alkalosis is a condition in which the body fluids have excess base (alkali). This is the opposite of excess acid (acidosis). acidosis
Diseases & Conditions
Alport syndrome
Alport syndrome is a rare inherited disorder that damages the tiny blood vessels in the kidneys. It can also cause hearing loss and eye problems.
Diseases & Conditions
Analgesic nephropathy
Analgesic nephropathy involves damage to one or both kidneys caused by overexposure to mixtures of medicines, especially over-the-counter pain medicines (analgesics).
Tests
Anti-glomerular basement membrane blood test
The glomerular basement membrane is the part of the kidney that helps filter waste and extra fluid from the blood. Anti-glomerular basement membrane antibodies are antibodies against this membrane. They...
Diseases & Conditions
Anti-glomerular basement membrane disease
Anti-glomerular basement membrane disease (anti-GBM disease) is a rare disorder that can involve quickly worsening kidney failure and lung disease. quickly worsening kidney failure Some forms of the disease...
Diseases & Conditions
Atheroembolic renal disease
Atheroembolic renal disease (AERD) occurs when small particles made of hardened cholesterol and fat spread to the small blood vessels of the kidneys.
Diseases & Conditions
Autosomal dominant tubulointerstitial kidney disease
Autosomal dominant tubulointerstitial kidney disease (ADTKD) is a group of inherited conditions that affect the tubules of the kidneys, causing the kidneys to gradually lose their ability to work.
Tests
BUN - blood test
BUN stands for blood urea nitrogen. Urea nitrogen is what forms when protein breaks down. A test can be done to measure the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood.
Diseases & Conditions
Bartter syndrome
Bartter syndrome is a group of rare conditions that affect the kidneys.
Diseases & Conditions
Bilateral hydronephrosis
Bilateral hydronephrosis is the enlargement of the parts of the kidney that collect urine. Bilateral means both sides.
Tests
Calcium - ionized
Ionized calcium is calcium in your blood that is not attached to proteins. It is also called free calcium. All cells need calcium in order to work. Calcium helps build strong bones and teeth. It is important...
Tests
Calcium - urine
This test measures the amount of calcium in the urine. All cells need calcium in order to work. Calcium helps build strong bones and teeth. It is important for heart function, and helps with muscle contraction...
Diseases & Conditions
Central diabetes insipidus
Central diabetes insipidus is a rare condition that involves extreme thirst and excessive urination.
Tests
Chloride - urine test
The urine chloride test measures the amount of chloride in the urine.
Diseases & Conditions
Chronic kidney disease
Chronic kidney disease is the slow loss of kidney function over time. The main job of the kidneys is to remove wastes and excess water from the body.
Tests
Citric acid urine test
Citric acid urine test measures the level of citric acid in urine.
Diseases & Conditions
Congenital nephrotic syndrome
Congenital nephrotic syndrome is a disorder that is passed down through families in which a baby develops protein in the urine and swelling of the body.
Tests
Creatinine blood test
The creatinine blood test measures the level of creatinine in the blood. This test is done to see how well your kidneys are working. Creatinine in the urine can be measured with a urine test.
Tests
Creatinine clearance test
The creatinine clearance test helps provide information about how well the kidneys are working. The test compares the creatinine level in urine with the creatinine level in blood.
Tests
Creatinine urine test
The creatinine urine test measures the amount of creatinine in urine. This test is done to see how well your kidneys are working. Creatinine in the blood can be measured by a blood test.
Diseases & Conditions
Cystinuria
Cystinuria is a rare condition in which stones made from an amino acid called cysteine form in the kidney, ureter, or bladder. Cystine is formed when two molecules of an amino acid called cysteine are bound...
Diseases & Conditions
Diabetes and kidney disease
Kidney disease or kidney damage often occurs over time in people with diabetes. This type of kidney disease is called diabetic nephropathy.
Diseases & Conditions
Diabetes insipidus
Diabetes insipidus (DI) is an uncommon condition in which the kidneys are unable to prevent the excretion of water. DI is not the same as diabetes mellitus types 1 and 2. However, untreated, both DI and...
Special Topics
Dialysis - hemodialysis
Artificial kidneys - hemodialysis; Dialysis; Renal replacement therapy - hemodialysis; End-stage renal disease - hemodialysis; Kidney failure - hemodialysis; Renal failure - hemodialysis; Chronic kidney...
Surgery
Dialysis - peritoneal
Dialysis treats end-stage kidney failure. It removes harmful substances from the blood when the kidneys cannot. This article focuses on peritoneal dialysis.
Special Topics
Dialysis centers - what to expect
Artificial kidneys - dialysis centers; Dialysis - what to expect; Renal replacement therapy - dialysis centers; End-stage renal disease - dialysis centers; Kidney failure - dialysis centers; Renal failure...
Diseases & Conditions
Distal renal tubular acidosis
Distal renal tubular acidosis is a disease that occurs when the kidneys do not properly remove acids from the blood into the urine. As a result, too much acid remains in the blood (called acidosis). acidosis
Special Topics
Electrolytes
Electrolytes are minerals in your blood and other body fluids that carry an electric charge. Electrolytes affect how your body functions in many ways, including: The amount of water in your bodyThe acidity...
Tests
Electrolytes - urine
The electrolytes - urine test measures specific chemicals called electrolytes in urine. It most often measures the levels of calcium, chloride, potassium, or sodium. electrolytes Related topics include...
Diseases & Conditions
End-stage kidney disease
End-stage kidney disease (ESKD) is the last stage of long-term (chronic) kidney disease. This is when your kidneys can no longer support your body's needs. long-term (chronic) kidney disease End-stage kidney...
Diseases & Conditions
Fanconi syndrome
Fanconi syndrome is a disorder of the kidney tubes in which certain substances normally absorbed into the bloodstream by the kidneys are released into the urine instead.
Diseases & Conditions
Fluid imbalance
Every part of your body needs water to function. When you are healthy, your body is able to balance the amount of water that enters or leaves your body. A fluid imbalance may occur when you lose more water...
Diseases & Conditions
Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis is scar tissue in the filtering unit of the kidney. This structure is called the glomerulus. The glomeruli serve as filters that help the body get rid of harmful substances...
Tests
Fractional excretion of sodium
Fractional excretion of sodium is the amount of salt (sodium) that leaves the body through urine compared to the amount filtered and reabsorbed by the kidney. Fractional excretion of sodium (FENa) is not...
Tests
Glomerular filtration rate
Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a test used to check how well the kidneys are working. Specifically, it estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli each minute. Glomeruli are the tiny filters...
Diseases & Conditions
Glomerulonephritis
Glomerulonephritis is a type of kidney disease in which the part of your kidneys that helps filter waste and fluids from the blood is damaged.
Tests
Glucose urine test
The glucose urine test measures the amount of sugar (glucose) in a urine sample. The presence of glucose in the urine is called glycosuria or glucosuria. The glucose level can also be measured in other...
Self-Care Instructions
Hemodialysis access - self care
Kidney failure - chronic-hemodialysis access; Renal failure - chronic-hemodialysis access; Chronic renal insufficiency - hemodialysis access; Chronic kidney failure - hemodialysis access; Chronic renal...
Surgery
Hemodialysis access procedures
Vascular access (often called just "access") is needed for you to get hemodialysis. The access is where you receive hemodialysis. Using the access, blood is removed from your body, cleaned by the dialysis...
Tests
Hemoglobinuria test
Hemoglobinuria test is a urine test that checks for hemoglobin in the urine.
Diseases & Conditions
High potassium level
High potassium level is a problem in which the amount of potassium in the blood is higher than normal. The medical name of this condition is hyperkalemia.
Diseases & Conditions
Hyperkalemic periodic paralysis
Hyperkalemic periodic paralysis (hyperPP) is a disorder that causes occasional episodes of muscle weakness and sometimes a higher than normal level of potassium in the blood. The medical name for high potassium...
Diseases & Conditions
Hypokalemic periodic paralysis
Hypokalemic periodic paralysis (hypoPP) is a disorder that causes occasional episodes of muscle weakness and sometimes a lower than normal level of potassium in the blood. The medical name for low potassium...
Diseases & Conditions
Hypophosphatemia
Hypophosphatemia is a low level of phosphorus (phosphate) in the blood. phosphorus
Diseases & Conditions
Idiopathic hypercalciuria
Idiopathic hypercalciuria is the presence of excess calcium in the urine without an identified cause after testing for common causes. This condition can lead to kidney stones, osteoporosis, or in extreme...
Diseases & Conditions
IgA nephropathy
IgA nephropathy is a kidney disorder in which antibodies (called IgA) build up in kidney tissue. Nephropathy is damage, disease, or other problems with the kidney. IgA nephropathy is also called Berger...
Diseases & Conditions
Interstitial nephritis
Interstitial nephritis is a kidney disorder in which the spaces between the kidney tubules become swollen (inflamed). This can cause problems with the way your kidneys work.
Tests
Ketones urine test
A ketone urine test measures the amount of ketones in the urine.
Tests
Kidney biopsy
A kidney biopsy is the removal of a small piece of kidney tissue for examination.
Special Topics
Kidney disease - resources
Tests
Kidney function tests
Kidney function tests are common lab tests used to evaluate how well the kidneys are working. Such tests include: BUN (Blood urea nitrogen) Creatinine - bloodCreatinine clearanceCreatinine - urine BUN ...
Diseases & Conditions
Low blood sodium
Low blood sodium is a condition in which the sodium level in the blood is lower than normal. The medical name of this condition is hyponatremia.
Diseases & Conditions
Lupus nephritis
Lupus nephritis, which is a kidney disorder, is a complication of systemic lupus erythematosus. systemic lupus erythematosus
Diseases & Conditions
Magnesium deficiency
Magnesium deficiency is a condition in which the amount of magnesium in the blood is lower than normal. The medical name of this condition is hypomagnesemia.
Diseases & Conditions
Malignant hypertension
Malignant hypertension is very high blood pressure that comes on suddenly and quickly. high blood pressure
Diseases & Conditions
Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis
Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis is a kidney disorder that involves inflammation and changes to kidney cells. It may lead to kidney failure. kidney failure
Diseases & Conditions
Membranous nephropathy
Membranous nephropathy is a kidney disorder that leads to changes and inflammation of the structures inside the kidney that help filter wastes and fluids. The inflammation may lead to problems with kidney...
Diseases & Conditions
Meningitis - cryptococcal
Cryptococcal meningitis is a fungal infection of the tissues covering the brain and spinal cord. These tissues are called meninges. meningitis
Diseases & Conditions
Milk-alkali syndrome
Milk-alkali syndrome is a condition in which there is a high level of calcium in the body (hypercalcemia). This causes a shift in the body's acid/base balance toward alkaline (metabolic alkalosis). As a...
Diseases & Conditions
Minimal change disease
Minimal change disease is a kidney disorder that can lead to nephrotic syndrome. Nephrotic syndrome is a group of symptoms that include protein in the urine, low blood protein levels in the blood, high...
Diseases & Conditions
Nephrocalcinosis
Nephrocalcinosis is a disorder in which there is too much calcium deposited in the kidneys. It is common in premature babies.
Diseases & Conditions
Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus
Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (NDI) is a disorder in which a defect in the small tubes (tubules) in the kidneys causes a person to pass a large amount of urine and lose too much water.
Diseases & Conditions
Nephrotic syndrome
Nephrotic syndrome is a group of symptoms and abnormal test results that include protein in the urine, low blood protein levels in the blood, high cholesterol levels, high triglyceride levels, increased...
Tests
Osmolality blood test
Osmolality blood test is a test that measures the concentration of all chemical particles found in the fluid part of blood. Osmolality in the urine can be measured with a urine test. urine test
Tests
Osmolality urine test
The osmolality urine test measures the concentration of chemicals in urine. Osmolality in the blood can be measured using a blood test. blood test
Diseases & Conditions
Osmotic diuresis
Osmotic diuresis is increased urination due to the presence of certain substances in the fluid filtered by the kidneys. This fluid eventually becomes urine. The process of osmosis created by these substances...
Tests
Pharmacogenetic testing
Pharmacogenetic testing provides information about your genes and how they control your response to certain medicines. Your genes can affect the desired result of a drug. Your provider can use the information...
Special Topics
Pharmacogenetics
Pharmacogenetics is the study of how genes affect the way medicines work in a person. Your health care provider can use the information from pharmacogenetic testing to prescribe medicines that will work...
Diseases & Conditions
Polycystic kidney disease
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a kidney disorder passed down through families. In this disease, many cysts form in the kidneys, causing them to become enlarged.
Diseases & Conditions
Poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis (GN)
Poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis (GN) is a kidney disorder that occurs after infection with certain strains of streptococcus bacteria.
Tests
Potassium test
This test measures the amount of potassium in the fluid portion (serum) of the blood. Potassium (K+) helps nerves and muscles communicate. It also helps move nutrients into cells and waste products out...
Tests
Potassium urine test
The potassium urine test measures the amount of potassium in the urine.
Diseases & Conditions
Prerenal azotemia
Prerenal azotemia is an abnormally high level of nitrogen waste products in the blood.
Tests
Protein electrophoresis - serum
This lab test measures the types of protein in the fluid (serum) part of a blood sample. This fluid is called serum.
Diseases & Conditions
Proximal renal tubular acidosis
Proximal renal tubular acidosis is a disease that occurs when the kidneys don't properly remove acids from the blood into the urine. As a result, too much acid remains in the blood (called acidosis). acidosis
Tests
Quantitative nephelometry test
Quantitative nephelometry is a lab test to quickly and accurately measure levels of certain proteins called immunoglobulins in the blood. Immunoglobulins are antibodies that help fight infection. antibodies...
Tests
RBC urine test
The RBC urine test measures the number of red blood cells in a urine sample.
Diseases & Conditions
Reflux nephropathy
Reflux nephropathy is a condition in which the kidneys are damaged by the backward flow of urine into the kidney.
Special Topics
Renal
The term "renal" refers to the kidney. For example, renal failure means kidney failure. Related topics: Kidney diseaseKidney disease - dietKidney failureKidney function testsRenal scanKidney transplant...
Diseases & Conditions
Renal and urological disorders
A renal disorder refers to any disease of the kidneys. Urological disorders are diseases of the kidneys and urinary tract. This includes the kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder, and urethra, as well as the...
Tests
Renal arteriography
Renal arteriography is a special x-ray of the arteries of the kidneys.
Diseases & Conditions
Renal papillary necrosis
Renal papillary necrosis is a disorder of the kidneys in which all or part of the renal papillae die. The renal papillae are the areas where the openings of the collecting ducts enter the kidney and where...
Tests
Renal scan
A renal scan is a nuclear medicine exam in which a small amount of radioactive material (radioisotope) is used to measure the function of the kidneys. nuclear medicine
Diseases & Conditions
Renal vein thrombosis
Renal vein thrombosis is a blood clot that develops in the vein that drains blood from the kidney. blood clot
Tests
Renin blood test
The renin test measures the level of renin in blood.
Diseases & Conditions
Renovascular hypertension
Renovascular hypertension is high blood pressure due to narrowing of the arteries that carry blood to the kidneys. This condition is also called renal artery stenosis. high blood pressure
Diseases & Conditions
Rhabdomyolysis
Rhabdomyolysis is the breakdown of muscle tissue that leads to the release of muscle fiber contents into the blood. These substances are harmful to the kidney and often cause kidney damage.
Diseases & Conditions
Schistosomiasis
Schistosomiasis is an infection with a type of blood fluke parasite called schistosomes.
Tests
Sodium urine test
The sodium urine test measures the amount of sodium the urine. Sodium can also be measured in a blood sample. blood sample
Self-Care Instructions
Taking care of your vascular access for hemodialysis
Arteriovenous fistula; A-V fistula; A-V graft; Tunneled catheter
Tests
Total protein
The total protein test measures the total amount of two classes of proteins found in the fluid portion of your blood. These are albumin and globulin. Proteins are important parts of all cells and tissues...
Tests
Urea nitrogen urine test
Urine urea nitrogen is a test that measures the amount of urea in the urine. Urea is a waste product resulting from the breakdown of protein in the body.
Tests
Uric acid - blood
Uric acid is a chemical created when the body breaks down substances called purines. Purines are normally produced in the body and are also found in some foods and drinks. Foods with high content of purines...
Tests
Uric acid urine test
The uric acid urine test measures the level of uric acid in the urine. The uric acid blood level can be checked using a blood test.
Tests
Urinary casts
Urinary casts are tiny tube-shaped particles that can be found when urine is examined under the microscope during a test called urinalysis. urinalysis Urinary casts may be made up of white blood cells,...
Tests
Urine 24-hour volume
The urine 24-hour volume test measures the amount of urine produced in a day. The amounts of creatinine, protein, and other chemicals released into the urine during this period are usually tested as well...
Tests
Urine chemistry
Urine chemistry is a group of one or more tests done to check the chemical content of a urine sample.
Tests
Urine concentration test
A urine concentration test measures the ability of the kidneys to conserve or excrete water.
Tests
Urine pH test
A urine pH test measures the level of acid in urine.
Tests
Urine protein dipstick test
The urine protein dipstick test measures the presence of all proteins, including albumin, in a urine sample. Albumin and protein can also be measured using a blood test. blood test
Tests
Urine specific gravity test
Urine specific gravity is a laboratory test that shows the total concentration of all chemical particles in the urine.