Related Experiment Videos
Relationship between cognitive impairment and chronic kidney disease
Laila-Yasmin Mani1, Robert John Unwin2
1University Clinic for Nephrology and Hypertension, Inselspital, University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
Practical Neurology
|July 14, 2026
Summary
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) significantly impacts cognitive function, particularly executive and language skills. Early recognition and intervention by neurologists can improve patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Neurology
- Neuropsychiatry
Background:
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects approximately 10% of the global population.
- CKD is frequently associated with neurological dysfunction, impacting cognitive domains.
- Cognitive impairment in CKD is often under-recognized but clinically significant.
Purpose of the Study:
- To raise awareness among neurologists and neuropsychiatrists about CKD as a contributor to cognitive decline.
- To highlight the characteristic cognitive profile associated with CKD.
- To guide clinicians in differentiating CKD-related cognitive issues from neurodegenerative diseases.
Main Methods:
- Review of mechanisms linking CKD to cognitive dysfunction.
- Outline of diagnostic approaches for CKD-related cognitive impairment.
- Presentation of multidisciplinary strategies for assessment and management.
Main Results:
- CKD impacts executive function and language domains.
- Distinguishing CKD's cognitive profile from neurodegenerative pathology is crucial.
- Early interventions can improve outcomes for patients with CKD and cognitive impairment.
Conclusions:
- Neurologists and neuropsychiatrists should consider CKD in patients with cognitive decline.
- Understanding the specific cognitive profile of CKD aids diagnosis.
- Multidisciplinary management strategies are essential for improving outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Chronic Kidney Disease I: Introduction
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) arises when the kidneys progressively lose their ability to function, ultimately leading to end-stage renal disease. At this advanced stage, the kidneys can no longer filter waste or maintain essential body functions, requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT) through dialysis or a kidney transplant for survival.Early-stage chronic kidney disease and detection challengesIn CKD's early stages, symptoms often remain absent because healthy nephrons compensate for...
01:24Chronic Kidney Disease II: Clinical Manifestations
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) progressively impairs multiple body systems due to the accumulation of uremic toxins, which disrupt cellular functions across various organs.Neurologic symptomsNeurologic symptoms often arise early in CKD, as uremic toxin buildup drives changes in cognitive and motor functions. Patients frequently experience fatigue, headache, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and, in severe cases, seizures. Peripheral neuropathy commonly manifests as burning sensations in the...
01:28Chronic Kidney Disease III: Interprofessional Care
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) requires collaborative and comprehensive management. CKD progresses through stages and can lead to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) if untreated. Interprofessional collaboration and patient education are crucial, enabling patients to manage their health and improve their quality of life.Diagnostic approach for chronic kidney diseaseThe diagnosis of CKD primarily focuses on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which assesses kidney function by measuring how well...
01:17Factors Affecting Renal Clearance: Renal Impairment
Renal dysfunction significantly impairs the renal clearance of drugs, leading to potential complications in drug therapy. Renal failure, which can be caused by various factors, poses a significant challenge in the elimination of drugs from the body.
One condition associated with renal failure is uremia. Uremia is characterized by impaired glomerular filtration and fluid accumulation in the body. This condition hinders the renal clearance of drugs, resulting in drug accumulation and potential...
One condition associated with renal failure is uremia. Uremia is characterized by impaired glomerular filtration and fluid accumulation in the body. This condition hinders the renal clearance of drugs, resulting in drug accumulation and potential...
01:18Chronic Kidney Disease IV: Nursing Management
Nursing management is essential for preventing complications, maintaining stability, and improving patients' quality of life in chronic kidney disease (CKD). By using a structured approach, nurses help slow CKD progression and support effective patient care.1. Comprehensive patient assessmentEffective management begins with nurses reviewing the patient’s medical history, and identifying key risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, and nephrotoxic drug use. Nurses assess signs of fluid...
01:29Acute Kidney Injury III: Clinical Manifestations
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) progresses through distinct clinical phases: the oliguric, diuretic, and recovery phases, each marked by unique manifestations and challenges.Oliguric Phase:The oliguric phase is the initial stage of AKI, typically lasting 10 to 14 days. This phase is marked by a significant reduction in urine output, usually less than 400 mL per day, indicating decreased kidney function. Fluid retention is a prominent feature, leading to symptoms such as edema, hypertension, and...