What’s metastatic renal cell carcinoma?

Metastatic renal cell carcinoma is a type of kidney cancer that can spread to other parts of the body. Risk factors include age, high blood pressure, smoking, and exposure to certain chemicals. Symptoms include blood in urine, back pain, and weight loss. Treatment options include surgery and immunotherapy, with a 75% survival rate if caught […]

What’s end-stage renal disease?

End stage renal disease (ESRD) is when the kidneys are failing and will never recover, functioning at no more than 10% capacity. It usually doesn’t come on quickly, and patients may live for years with compromised kidneys. Treatment options include hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, or kidney transplantation. Some choose not to treat ESRD due to quality […]

Renal pelvis inflammation: what is it?

Pyelonephritis is an inflammation of the renal pelvis caused by a bacterial infection, which can lead to permanent kidney damage if left untreated. Symptoms include pain, fever, and nausea, and treatment options include antibiotics, pain medications, and the use of a heating pad. Without proper treatment, permanent kidney damage can occur, leading to the eventual […]

What are renal stones?

Kidney stones are painful crystallized material that can be treated with pain relievers and medical assistance. Risk factors include dehydration, diet, and medical conditions. Lithotomy is one of the oldest surgical procedures used to remove kidney stones. Symptoms include colicky pain, difficulty urinating, and blood in the urine. Diagnosis is made through medical imaging. Kidney […]

What’s a renal scan?

Kidney scintigraphy is a nuclear imaging method that evaluates blood flow and kidney function. Radioisotopes are injected into the bloodstream and imaged with a special camera. The test takes 30-60 minutes and carries few health risks. It is used to diagnose kidney disorders and detect organ rejection in transplant patients. The procedure is conducted in […]

Diabetic renal diet?

A diabetic kidney diet is important for those with both diabetes and kidney disease. It focuses on maintaining consistent blood sugar levels and reducing sodium, potassium, and phosphorus intake. Low glycemic carbohydrates and vegetables are recommended, while high sodium and potassium foods should be avoided. A registered dietitian can provide guidance on portion control and […]

Renal pelvis tumor: what is it?

Renal pelvis tumors are rare and may be cancerous. Treatment involves removing the tumor or the entire kidney, followed by chemotherapy and radiation. Risk factors include obesity, smoking, and family history. Symptoms include blood in urine, back pain, weight loss, fever, and fatigue. Diagnosis involves blood and urine tests, imaging, and sometimes a biopsy. A […]

Renal artery stenosis: what is it?

Renal artery stenosis is a narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the kidneys, often caused by atherosclerosis. It can lead to kidney failure and high blood pressure. Diagnosis is through imaging and function tests. Treatment includes monitoring, medication, and surgery in severe cases. Renal artery stenosis is a narrowing of the arteries that […]

Renal ischemia: what is it?

Renal ischemia occurs when the kidneys don’t receive enough blood, often due to narrowed or blocked arteries. It can lead to acute kidney injury and even complete kidney failure. Symptoms may include pain, weakness, high blood pressure, and nausea. Treatments vary and may include hormonal therapies, vasodilators, and dialysis. Organs require a constant supply of […]

Renal colic: what is it?

Renal colic is the excruciating pain caused by a kidney stone traveling through the urinary tract. The pain is constant and often radiates down the side of the abdomen and into the back and pelvis. Over-the-counter pain relievers have little effect, and medical attention may be necessary. Treatment options include prescription pain medication, ultrasound stone […]

Renal adenoma: what is it?

Renal adenomas are benign tumors that often go undiagnosed and can only be noticed incidentally on autopsy findings. They are slow-growing but can potentially turn into aggressive, cancerous tumors. Surgery may be an option if the growth becomes problematic, but non-invasive treatment approaches are generally preferred. Patients should ensure the growth is part of their […]

Renal nutritionist’s role?

Renal nutritionists recommend dietary changes to optimize liver function in patients with kidney disease or complications. They assess dietary intake, propose changes, monitor progress, and maintain patient records. They have a bachelor’s degree in food and nutrition and work in healthcare facilities or private practices. They also need excellent interpersonal skills to build rapport with […]

What’s Branchio Oto Renal Syndrome?

Branchio oto renal syndrome is a genetic disorder affecting the airways, kidneys, and ears. Treatment is supportive, and surgery may be needed for structural abnormalities. Gene therapy may be a future possibility. Prenatal tests can reveal problems, and genetic counseling is recommended for those concerned about passing on the disorder. Branchio oto renal syndrome is […]

Renal adenocarcinoma: what is it?

Renal adenocarcinoma is a common type of kidney cancer, with symptoms including flank pain, hematuria, and unintentional weight loss. Smoking, obesity, and high blood pressure are risk factors, and treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Early diagnosis is crucial for higher treatment effectiveness. Renal adenocarcinoma is a type of cancer that develops in […]

What’s renal tubular acidosis?

Renal tubular acidosis is a disease where the kidneys cannot remove enough acid from the body, causing high acidity levels in the blood. Symptoms include fatigue, heart palpitations, and poor growth. It can be corrected with medication and supplements, and diagnostic tests are used to determine the severity and type of the disease. Renal tubular […]

What’s papillary renal cell carcinoma?

Papillary renal cell carcinoma is a type of kidney cancer that accounts for 10-15% of renal cell tumors. It is characterized by finger-like bumps and is more common in males. Hereditary and environmental factors can increase the risk of developing this cancer. Symptoms include blood in urine, fever, and lower back pain. Treatment options depend […]

Renal agenesis: what is it?

Renal agenesis is a defect in embryonic development that can prevent one or both kidneys from forming. Chromosomal abnormalities and maternal smoking, drinking, and drug use may play a role. Unilateral renal agenesis is often asymptomatic, while bilateral agenesis is fatal. Treatment includes medication and surgery. Renal agenesis is a defect that occurs early in […]

Renal amyloidosis: what is it?

Renal amyloidosis is caused by abnormal proteins deposited in the kidneys, leading to kidney failure. It is often a symptom of systemic amyloidosis, which affects organs throughout the body. Hereditary forms are caused by mutations in a single protein and can lead to multiple organ failure. The amyloid diseases are a group of diseases that […]

Renal ultrasound: what is it?

A kidney ultrasound is a non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves to capture images of a person’s kidneys. It can help diagnose chronic urinary problems, kidney stones, or tumors. Patients should have a full bladder during the procedure and avoid drinking soda. Results are reviewed by a doctor, and further tests or treatments may be […]

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