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Advances in chronic kidney disease pathophysiology and management
1Tim Usherwood BSc, MBBS, MD (Res), DMS, FRCP, FRCGP, FRACGP, FAICD, Head, Westmead Clinical School, The University Of Sydney, NSW; Professor of General Practice, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW; Honorary Professorial Fellow, The George Institute for Global Health, Sydney, NSW.
Insights
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects many Australians, particularly Indigenous peoples. Early management and lifestyle changes are key to slowing progression and preventing complications like cardiovascular disease and kidney failure.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Public Health
Background:
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant health issue in Australia, with higher prevalence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations.
- CKD increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, and other serious health complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in understanding CKD pathophysiology.
- To outline current strategies for managing CKD and preventing associated complications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent research on CKD pathophysiology and management.
- Focus on evidence-based strategies for disease progression and complication prevention.
Main Results:
- Healthy lifestyle choices (physical activity, smoking cessation, weight management, low sodium intake) are crucial for all CKD patients.
- Avoiding nephrotoxic medications and managing risk factors for acute kidney injury are essential.
- Key management strategies include treating underlying causes, controlling hypertension, reducing albuminuria, and managing dyslipidemia.
Conclusions:
- Comprehensive management of CKD involves lifestyle modifications, risk factor control, and addressing specific complications like renal anemia and mineral bone disorder.
- Collaboration with nephrologists is recommended for patients with advanced CKD or specific complications.
Background:
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major health concern in Australia, with a prevalence of 9% among non-Indigenous adult Australians and 18% among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. CKD is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, kidney failure and other complications.
Objective:
The aim of this article is to outline recent advances in CKD pathophysiology and management, focusing on strategies for slowing disease progression and preventing cardiovascular and other complications.
Discussion:
All patients with CKD benefit from a healthy lifestyle including regular physical activity, avoiding smoking and obesity, and limiting sodium intake. Nephrotoxic medications and other risk factors for acute kidney injury should be avoided. Treatment of the underlying pathology is important, along with control of hypertension, reduction in albuminuria (if present) and treatment of dyslipidaemia. Patients with renal anaemia, mineral and bone disorder, or advanced disease should normally be cared for in partnership with a nephrologist.
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