| Abstract: |
This brochure provides basic information about kidney disease. Topics include the anatomy and physiology of kidneys, common kidney diseases, risks for kidney disease, the symptoms of kidney disease, diagnostic tests used to confirm kidney disease, treatments for kidney failure, and prevention of kidney disease. Kidney diseases discussed include chronic kidney disease (CKD), which can occur from many different causes, kidney stones, polycystic kidney disease (PKD), kidney infections (pyelonephritis), simple kidney cysts, kidney cancer, and the nephritic syndrome. Diagnostic tests described include glomerular filtration rate (GFR), urine tests, blood pressure monitoring, blood glucose testing, kidney biopsy, and imaging tests (CT, MRI). Treatment options include hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and kidney transplantation. Readers are encouraged to contact the American Kidney Fund (AKF) HelpLine (800–638–8299 or HelpLine@kidneyfund.org). The brochure is illustrated with black-and-white photographs. 5 figures. |