Chronic Kidney Disease: A Clinician's Guide

The gradual loss of kidney’s function over a period of months or years results in chronic kidney disease. As kidney function decreases, various physiological changes occur, such as the increase in blood pressure, accumulation of urea, decrease in erythropoietin synthesis, fluid volume overload, hypocalcemia, etc. Leg swelling, loss of appetite, hyperphosphatemia, fatigue and sexual dysfunction are some of its most common symptoms. The main causes of chronic kidney disease are glomerulonephritis, diabetes mellitus and high blood pressure. Treatment of the underlying disease and control of blood pressure are the chief principles of its management. Angiotensin II receptor antagonists or angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors can slow the progression of the disease. High blood lipids are aggressively treated. Hormones such as erythropoietin and calcitriol are replaced. This book unfolds the innovative aspects of chronic kidney disease, which will be crucial for the progress of nephrology in the future. It presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe. It is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.