Acute Renal Failure / Acute Kidney Injury
A sudden cessation of kidney function preventing waste removal and electrolyte balance, causing accumulation of harmful substances in the body.
Anemia
A deficiency in hemoglobin or red blood cell count, characterized by weakness, pallor, and breathlessness, often associated with kidney disease.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Gradual kidney function decline over months or years, resulting in waste buildup. Ranges from mild (Stage 1) to complete failure (Stage 5).
Creatinine
A blood and urine substance produced by muscles; elevated levels indicate reduced kidney function.
Diabetes
An endocrine disorder where the body cannot regulate blood glucose levels, closely linked to kidney disease development.
Dialysis
A cleansing process restoring chemical blood balance in kidney failure patients through hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis methods.
End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)
Severe kidney failure reducing function to 10% or less, requiring dialysis or transplantation for survival.
Hematuria
Red blood cells present in urine due to kidney filter damage, allowing blood to leak into urinary output.
Hemodialysis
A dialysis method circulating blood through an external filtration device, commonly called an "artificial kidney."
Histocompatibility
Examination of human leukocyte antigens (tissue typing) in transplant donors and recipients to improve organ compatibility and reduce rejection.
Hypertension
High blood pressure from excessive force of blood against arterial walls, a significant kidney disease risk factor.
Hypotension
Abnormally low blood pressure occurring during dialysis when fluid removal is excessive, causing dizziness and nausea.
Kidney
Bean-shaped organ filtering blood wastes and balancing fluids and minerals; produces urine via the ureters to the bladder.
Kidney Stones
Mineral accumulations (typically calcium) within kidneys, potentially causing blockages and pain.
Nephrology
Medical science focusing on kidney functions and diseases.
Peritoneal Dialysis (PD)
Kidney failure treatment using a catheter to fill the abdomen with dialysate solution, which absorbs wastes through the peritoneal membrane.
Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)
A condition where multiple fluid-filled cysts develop in kidneys, potentially replacing kidney tissue and causing progressive failure.
Proteinuria
Abnormal protein presence in urine; healthy kidneys filter and retain blood proteins.
Red Blood Cells
Oxygen-carrying blood cells distributing oxygen from lungs throughout body tissues.
Renal
Relating to or concerning the kidneys.
White Blood Cells
Immune system cells fighting infection and disease.