The conservative management of chronic renal failure

The management of patients with chronic renal failure is complicated and demanding for both physician and patient, but is frequently rewarding. When specific treatment of the underlying cause is not possible, therapy is aimed at making the maximum use of existing nephrons and preventing further loss of nephrons through hypertension and infection. Careful attention to salt and water balance is necessary, and all patients and all drugs prescribed must be considered with care. Special problems exist with regard to anaemia, bone disease, pericarditis and hyperkalaemia. An important aspect of care at this time is the education of patients about the next major phase of management, dialysis and transplantation.