Nephrology

Nephrology relates to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the kidney. The specialist physician who practices nephrology is known as a nephrologist, and they can treat a broad range of conditions in both children and adults. Many diseases and conditions of the kidney are systematic disorders and may require special treatment from the nephrologist.

Some conditions requiring physicians specialising in nephrology include:

• Acute Renal Failure
• Chronic Kidney Disease
• Chronic Urinary Tract Infections
• Electrolyte Disorders
• Hematuria
• Hypertension
• Kidney Stones
• Proteinuria

Diagnosis of kidney disease normally relies on analysis of a patient's urine, electrolytes, creatinine and urea. In some cases, a renal biopsy is necessary, and nephrologists also rely on ultrasound, CT scanning and Nuclear medicine to view and diagnose kidney function.

A large part of treatment for kidney disease is administered in the form medication, which may include steroids, anti-hypertensives, erythropoietin, vitamin D and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs. In more serious cases, dialysis or transplant may be required.

There are also many sub-specialties related to nephrology that range from dialyticians to urologists. If you need to find a nephrologist in your area, look to the physicians online at physicians.com.au. Search the listed profiles for the details you need, and phone today to make an appointment with a specialist in the field of nephrology.