Nephrology is the study and treatment of kidney disease, including pediatric nephrology. Nephrologists manage transplant protocols, operate dialysis centers, and have a good understanding of internal medicine. Nurses, technicians, dietitians, and social workers are also integral to the field. Progress has been made in treating kidney disease in the last 75 to 100 years, including the first successful kidney transplant in 1954.
Nephrology is the study and treatment of kidney disease. Doctors, nurses, and technicians all specialize in treating patients with kidney disorders.
Nephrologists treat patients with kidney disorders and manage transplant protocols in hospitals and transplant networks. They also operate dialysis centers and programs. Like other specialists, these physicians serve an additional residency in their field, beyond the standard training for a general practitioner. Because kidney disease affects the entire body, a nephrologist must also have a good understanding of other aspects of internal medicine and how kidney failure can cause other bodily systems to fail.
Kidney disorders can be caused by birth defects, disease, or lifestyle. Nephrology deals with all these disorders, regardless of their origin. The field also specializes in pediatric nephrology, which deals exclusively with kidney disease or disorders in children.
Doctors have attempted to cure kidney disease for centuries, but like many other medical conditions, it has only been in the last 75 to 100 years that any real progress has been made in treating these diseases. New technologies for diagnosing kidney disease, new treatments and drugs have allowed nephrologists to treat their patients with a greater degree of success. Joseph Murray performed the first successful kidney transplant in 1954 and was later awarded a Nobel Prize for his success.
Nurses and technicians are also an integral part of the field of nephrology. These medical professionals are often trained in administering hemodialysis and teaching patients how to perform peritoneal dialysis. They can also be a frontline team to help catch complications before they become life-threatening.
Dietitians and social workers also have their place in the field of nephrology. They work closely with doctors and nurses, focusing on helping patients live quality lives, as well as helping families understand their loved ones’ medical issues. Nephrology is a complicated field and requires dedication from all involved to ensure the best patient care.
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