Patient Education

Nephrology Specialists, P.C. would like to be your partner in health care. Feel free to ask your questions and share your concerns with us. We will work with you to develop a wellness program for the care and treatment you need.

We welcome you to our practice and look forward to caring for you.

Nephrology Specialists, P.C. provides a full range of medical services including the following:

Acute Renal Failure

Acute renal failure (ARF) occurs when the kidneys suddenly stop filtering waste products from the blood. This sudden loss of function can result from injury, trauma or infection, or from complications during surgery. It usually affects people who have additional health-related conditions. ...

Alagille Syndrome

Alagille syndrome is a genetic disorder in which the infant is born with abnormalities in the bile ducts that involve having fewer bile ducts than normal or ducts that are malformed or unusually narrow. Since the purpose of these ducts is to carry bile, the substance that helps digest fats, from the liver to the small intestine and gallbladder, these abnormalities interfere with normal digestion. Because the ducts do not transport bile properly, the substance builds up in the liver and causes damage and subsequent scarring of that vital organ.(cirrhosis). Once the liver is damaged, it fails to filter necessary wastes from the bloodstream and other serious, sometimes life-threatening changes occur. ...

Antegrade Pyelography

Antegrade pyelography is a diagnostic test performed to create detailed X-ray images of the upper urinary tract with the help of a contrast dye. This test may be performed to diagnose the following conditions: ureteropelvic junction obstruction, hydronephrosis, and obstruction of the ureter. During the antegrade pyelography procedure, X-ray images are taken in rapid succession to permit accurate visualization of the kidneys and ureters and their associated blood vessels. ...

Atheroembolic Renal Disease

Atherosclerosis is the build-up of plaque (fat and cholesterol) within the walls of arteries. Atheroembolic renal disease (AERD) develops when cholesterol crystals break off from the lining of the arteries and move into the bloodstream. During blood circulation, these crystals get stuck in tiny blood vessels called arterioles and reduce blood flow to the kidneys or other parts of the body. AERD can also cause cause swelling, inflammation and damage to the tissue of the kidneys. If blood flow is significantly blocked and kidney damage is severe, atheroembolic renal disease may cause kidney failure. In addition to the kidneys, AERD may affect the skin, eyes, bones, muscles, brain, nerves, and organs in the abdomen. ...

Catheter Angiography

Catheter angiography is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure to evaluate and treat conditions within the blood vessels. It is performed by inserting a catheter into a targeted artery or vein and delivering contrast dye to provide clear imaging results with the use of a fluoroscope. Angiogram pictures can be viewed as X-ray films or stored as digital images in a computer. ...

Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) refers to the gradual loss of kidney function over a long period of time. The kidneys are responsible for eliminating waste and excess water from the body. Loss of kidney function causes a dangerous buildup of waste and fluid. Chronic kidney disease is most often associated with diabetes and high blood pressure, and requires prompt treatment to keep life-threatening complications from developing. ...

Cystinosis

Cystinosis is a genetic condition that causes the accumulation of the amino acid "cystine" in the cells of the body. Excessive amounts of cystine can damage cells, and form crystals that build up and damage various organs and tissues, including the kidneys, eyes, liver, thyroid, muscles, pancreas, brain and white blood cells. Depending on the type, cystinosis that is not treated can result in kidney failure. ...

Dent Disease

Dent disease is a rare genetic disorder that affects the kidneys. More common in males than females, symptoms of Dent disease may develop in childhood and progressively worsen. Although they rarely develop symptoms of the condition, women can be carriers of Dent disease and pass it on to their children. Kidney stones and protein or blood in the urine are common childhood indicators of this condition. Dent disease is commonly underdiagnosed, because the symptoms are similar to other other kidney disorders. Dent disease may lead to progressive kidney problems and renal disease in early to mid-adulthood. ...

Dialysis FAQs

What is dialysis?

Dialysis is a process that substitutes for kidney function when the normal operation of the kidneys is interrupted. In a healthy body, the kidneys serve to regulate fluid levels in the body, filter waste products and control urination. Dialysis performs these functions when the kidneys fail due to disease or injury and the resultant buildup of waste products in the body threatens to cause illness. ...

Duplex Ultrasound

The duplex ultrasound is a diagnostic test administered to assess blood circulation. It combines the techniques of traditional ultrasound with those of Doppler ultrasound. Traditional ultrasound uses sound waves to create black-and-white images of the veins and arteries. Doppler technology, on the other hand, uses sound waves to track circulating blood, generating color images of blood as it flows through the body. Using this combination of techniques, duplex ultrasound helps to distinguish several important characteristics of the blood vessels, including speed and direction of blood flow and diameter of the vessels themselves. Duplex ultrasound can also detect the presence and extent of any obstruction in the blood vessels, such as cholesterol deposits or blood clots. ...

Ectopic Kidney

An ectopic kidney, also known as renal ectopia, is a congenital condition in which a kidney is not located in its normal position and is situated in an unusual position within the body. This condition is not common, only occurring in approximately one out of every 1,000 births. The function of the kidney is usually normal but because of its location and its proximity to other organs, it may have difficulty draining. While most individuals with an ectopic kidney have no problems, others may experience kidney failure, urinary stones, urinary tract infections, or other potentially serious complications. ...

Edema

Edema (water retention) is swelling caused by an excessive accumulation of fluid in the body. It typically affects the hands, feet, arms, ankles and legs, but can develop in any part of the body. The lower legs are particularly susceptible to edema due to the force of gravity.

Normally, the kidneys filter the blood and help to maintain a proper metabolic balance. However, under certain conditions, too much fluid is retained and swelling results. Mild edema may be inconsequential but, because fluid buildup can result from a serious medical condition and have grave consequences if left untreated, a physician should be consulted when symptoms are severe or prolonged. ...

Electrolyte Imbalance

Electrolytes are ionized materials found naturally in the body that help to regulate nerve and muscle function, fluid levels and help maintain proper acid or pH levels in the body. Common electrolytes include sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium and chloride, which also help to regulate the function of many bodily systems. Imbalanced electrolyte levels may develop as a result of impaired kidney function and causing troubling symptoms. ...

End-Stage Renal Disease

The final stage of chronic kidney disease (CKD), end-stage renal disease occurs when the kidneys are functioning at less than 15 percent of their normal capabilities, and are no longer able to filter waste from the blood. The kidneys experience complete or near-complete failure, and cannot function on their own. ...

Fanconi Syndrome

The function of the kidney is to filter blood, keeping or reabsorbing necessary nutrients, and excreting the excess or waste in urine. Fanconi syndrome is a disorder of the kidney in which substances that are normally filtered and absorbed into the blood stream are excreted into the urine. ...

Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis

Glomeruli are the filters within the kidneys that rid the body of harmful substances. When the glomeruli become damaged or scarred, the filtering process within the kidneys does not function properly, causing a condition known as focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). The exact cause of FSGS is unknown, however, it may be caused by an infection. Without treatment, FSGS may lead to loss of kidney function or kidney failure. ...

Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis that causes painful, swollen, red and inflamed joints. Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid that forms crystals in the joints and surrounding tissue. Uric acid is a natural waste product of the body that is normally filtered out of the bloodstream by the kidneys and excreted during urination. Patients with gout have an abnormal metabolism that reduces the effectiveness of the kidneys, causing uric acid to accumulate in the blood. ...

Hematuria

Hematuria is the presence of red blood cells in the urine. When blood is visible in the urine, it is called gross hematuria. Microscopic hematuria is visible only under a microscope and is most often discovered as part of a routine medical exam.

Causes of Hematuria

Bleeding can occur at any location along the urinary tract. This includes the kidneys, ureter, bladder, urethra and the prostate in men. While blood in the urine is not always the sign of a serious disease or condition, it may be an indication of any of the following conditions: ...

Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome

Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a condition that develops as a result of damaged red blood cells that accumulate and clog the filtering system of the kidneys. As a result, blood flow to the kidneys is reduced, damaging kidney function. HUS can affect children and adults, however, most cases of HUS occur in children, and are caused by an infection from E. coli bacteria. Left untreated, HUS can cause serious complications including kidney failure. ...

Hemodialysis

Hemodialysis ("dialysis," for short) is a blood-cleansing procedure used as treatment for chronic kidney failure. The chief function of the kidneys is to filter waste products from the blood. When the kidneys fail, hemodialysis takes over their function. During hemodialysis, blood is removed from a vein in the patient's arm (the leg is also used, albeit much less frequently), circulated through a filtering machine, and returned to the body through an artery. ...

Horseshoe Kidney

Horseshoe kidney is the most common type of kidney fusion, a congenital disorder that occurs during fetal development. In infants born with a horseshoe kidney, the kidneys are fused, forming a U-shaped organ similar in shape to a horseshoe. Another, much less common, variety of kidney fusion is ectopic kidney. ...

Hyperkalemia

Hyperkalemia is a metabolic disorder in which there is an elevated concentration of potassium in the blood. Potassium is necessary for proper functioning of the nerves and muscles, including the heart muscle, but an excess of the electrolyte may be life-threatening. Normally, almost all potassium in the body is found in the cells and organs with very little circulating in the bloodstream. ...

Hydronephrosis

Hydronephrosis is a swelling in the kidney usually due to a blockage that prevents urine from flowing into the bladder. The blockage typically occurs in the upper section of the urinary tract as a result of an abnormal narrowing of the ureter. Complications from hydronephrosis may include decreased kidney function. Hydronephrosis is much more common in males than in females. ...

Hypernatremia

Hypernatremia is an elevated concentration of serum sodium, or sodium in the blood. It results from an inadequate intake of water and usually develops in patients who are physically or mentally impaired to the point that they are unable to access water, or even to request it. Normally, even a slight increase in the body's sodium level will create intense thirst, but if water is unavailable, or a patient is unable to communicate thirst, hypernatremia can result. Hypernatremia is most common in infants, mentally disabled patients, patients who are comatose, and the elderly, particularly those with dementia. ...

Hypokalemia

Hypokalemia is a metabolic imbalance in which there is too little potassium in the blood. Potassium is a mineral necessary for the healthy functioning of nerve and muscle cells. As with other vital minerals, potassium must remain at a normal level in order for the body to function properly. It is dangerous for the potassium level to be too high or too low. ...

Hyponatremia

Hyponatremia is an electrolyte imbalance in which the sodium level in the body is abnormally low. Because sodium helps to regulate the way the body retains fluid, too little sodium results in the accumulation of too much water in the cells. Cellular swelling can cause many medical problems, ranging from mild to potentially fatal. Hyponatremia is most frequently the result of drinking too much water, and is a common medical problem for marathon and triathlon athletes. ...

Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy

Immunoglobulins are antibodies normally found in the blood. They function as part of the body's defense system, warding off harmful viruses or bacteria that may cause disease. There are several types of immunoglobulins in the blood; IgG is the most abundant and is used to mean "immunoglobulin replacement therapy." Immunoglobulin replacement therapy is administered when a patient's body does not produce enough of the antibody on its own, or when a boost is needed to treat a particular disease. ...

Intravenous Pyelogram

An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is a diagnostic X-ray examination of the kidneys, ureters, urethra and bladder, and is used to detect abnormalities that include kidney stones and tumors. IVP provides clear, detailed images of these organs in order to diagnose and treat conditions without the need for invasive surgery. ...

Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer is characterized by a tumor that begins in the kidneys, the bean-shaped organs that help remove excess water and waste from the body through urine. Cancer that originates in the kidneys is common, with more than 60,000 people in the United States diagnosed with it each year.

Types of Kidney Cancer

There are several different types, classified by where they originate, of kidney cancer. The most common is renal-cell carcinoma, which begins in the small tubes found in the kidney. Typically beginning as a single mass, it can usually be identified before it spreads to other areas. ...

Kidney Failure

Kidney failure refers to a decline in kidney function to the extent that the patient cannot live long without dialysis or a kidney transplant. Kidney failure can occur suddenly (acute renal failure) or gradually over time. Most often, kidney failure is permanent and is referred to as end-stage renal disease. Kidney failure can be the result of loss of blood flow to the kidneys or a blockage that prevents urine from exiting the kidneys. Blood or urine flow can be interrupted by severe dehydration, underlying disease conditions, certain medications, surgical complications or trauma. ...

Kidney Stones

A kidney stone, also known as renal calculi or nephrolithiasis, is a hardened mass of mineral and acid salts that separates from the urine and travels through the urinary tract. The urine normally dilutes and dissolves these substances, but when the composition of urine is unbalanced, crystallized stones can form. Kidney stones are a common but painful urinary-tract disorder; men are more likely than women to get them. Kidney stones can cause severe pain, but usually do not cause any permanent damage to the urinary tract or body. ...

Kidney Transplant

A kidney transplant is the replacement of a nonfunctioning kidney with a healthy donor kidney to restore proper waste management and blood filtering in the body. Candidates for kidney transplantation are typically patients who have kidney failure, or are in the advanced stages of kidney disease that has not responded to treatments such as medication and dialysis. The replacement kidney can come from a living or deceased donor. Although there are several risks associated with kidney transplantation, it is often effective in restoring kidney function. ...

Kidney-Function Evaluation

Because kidney disease does not usually produce symptoms in its early stages, many patients who have deteriorating kidney function are unaware of it. Regular kidney-function evaluations can detect kidney problems in their earliest stages, and help slow damage.

There are several tests that are performed to detect problems with kidney function; they are especially effective in patients who are asymptomatic. In many cases, kidney disease is first discovered during a routine blood or urine test. ...

Lowe Syndrome

Lowe syndrome is a rare genetic condition that affects males more often than females. It is sometimes referred to as oculo-cerebro-renal syndrome of Lowe (OCRL) because it affects the eyes, brain and kidneys. Lowe syndrome is named after Dr. Charles Lowe, the senior member of a group of colleagues that initially described this condition. Symptoms of Lowe syndrome include developmental delays, vision problems and kidney abnormalities. Lowe syndrome is an inherited condition caused by a defective gene. ...

Lupus Nephritis

Systemic lupus erythematosus, commonly known as lupus, is a disease in which the the immune system produces proteins that attack the body and cause damage to the kidney, brain, joints and skin. Lupus nephritis is a condition in which the the kidneys become inflamed as a result of systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus nephritis can lead to impaired kidney function or, in extreme cases, kidney failure. ...

Metabolic Acidosis

Metabolic acidosis is a condition where there is an excess build up of acid in the body fluids or when the kidneys do not remove enough acid from the body.

Types of Metabolic Acidosis

There are several types of metabolic acidosis, which are caused by various conditions: ...

Nephrectomy

A nephrectomy is a surgical procedure to remove part or all of a kidney. Depending on the reason it is required, a nephrectomy involves removing only the damaged or diseased part of one kidney; all of one kidney; or the entire kidney, along with the surrounding adrenal gland and lymph nodes. All nephrectomies are performed under general anesthesia. ...

Nephritis

Nephritis (kidney inflammation) is most often caused by autoimmune diseases that affect major organs, although it can also result from infection. Nephritis can cause excessive amounts of protein to be excreted in urine, and fluid to build up in the body. It can affect people of all ages, although its cause differs depending on whether children or adults are affected. In children, nephritis is often the result of infections caused by streptococcus bacteria, while in adults it is often the result of vasculitis, pneumonia or hepatitis. ...

Nephrology

Nephrology is the branch of internal medicine that focuses on care of the kidneys, and diagnosis and treatment of kidney disease and disorders. Many kidney problems are systemic, and require medical evaluation and intervention not only by nephrologists, but by specialists in other fields, such as immunology or rheumatology. ...

Nephrostomy

A nephrostomy, also known as percutaneous nephrostomy, is performed to drain urine from the kidney. This procedure is necessary when urine cannot move through the ureters, bladder, and urethra as it normally does. A nephrostomy is performed by the surgical insertion of a tube directly into the kidney. The function of the nephrostomy is to temporarily drain urine either because its flow has been blocked or because normal urine flow has to be temporarily interrupted for medical reasons. The procedure allows the kidney to function properly and protects it from further damage. It also helps to clear any infection. ...

Percutaneous Nephrostomy

Percutaneous nephrostomy is performed to drain urine from a kidney. It is usually performed when a ureter is blocked, and urine cannot leave the kidney as it normally does. A percutaneous nephrostomy allows the kidney to function properly, and protects it from further damage. It also helps to clear up infection. ...

Peritoneal Dialysis

Dialysis is a treatment to filter the blood and remove waste products when the kidneys are no longer functioning properly. During hemodialysis, the patient's blood circulates through a machine to be cleansed before re-entering the body. This procedure takes place in a medical setting under the supervision of a healthcare professional. ...

Peritonitis

The peritoneum is the lining of the inner abdominal wall. It serves as a protective covering for the abdominal organs. Peritonitis is a bacterial or fungal infection of the peritoneum.

Types of Peritonitis

There are two types of peritonitis: primary peritonitis, which originates in the peritoneum and secondary peritonitis, which is the result of an injury or infection that spreads into the abdominal cavity and affects the peritoneum. Peritonitis may occur for a variety of reasons. ...

Polycystic Kidney Disease

Polycystic kidney disease, also known as PKD, is a genetic disorder that involves the development of cysts within and around the kidneys. A cyst is a non cancerous, fluid-filled sac that can vary in size and sometimes grow extremely large. When these cysts form, the kidneys fill with fluid and may become enlarged, resulting in decreased kidney function and in extreme cases, kidney failure. ...

Proteinuria

Proteinuria is an abnormal amount of protein in the urine. While waste products are filtered out of the blood to leave the body through the urine, protein is essential in protecting the body against infection and ensuring proper fluid circulation. When protein is found in the urine, it may be a sign of chronic kidney disease. ...

Pyelonephritis

Pyelonephritis is a kidney infection which commonly begins in the urethra or bladder and eventually spreads to the kidneys. Pyelonephritis is a serious condition that can damage the kidneys and cause dangerous complications if left untreated.

Causes of Pyelonephritis

Pyelonephritis is caused by bacteria that enters the kidneys, possibly from other infections of the urinary system that may include: ...

Renal Abscess

A renal abscess, also known as a perirenal or kidney abscess, is a pocket of pus that develops in the kidney tissue. It results from the migration of bacteria from another infection site on the body to the kidneys. Most commonly, a renal abscess if a complication of a urinary tract infection (UTI), often complicated by the existence of some blockage of urine flow. ...

Renal Arteriogram

A renal arteriogram is a diagnostic test that uses X-ray imaging to evaluate blood vessels in the kidneys. During the procedure, a contrast dye is injected through a catheter placed in the groin area; the dye helps to provide a clear picture of the blood vessels. The procedure requires some recovery time, but is usually performed on an outpatient basis. ...

Renal Artery Aneurysm

A renal artery aneurysm is a bulge or "balloon" that forms in the wall of an artery that travels to a kidney. In most cases, there are no symptoms associated with renal artery aneurysms, and they are often discovered accidentally during examinations for other medical conditions. Renal artery aneurysms may be caused by congenital weakness in the walls of the arteries; certain diseases; infection; or trauma that has damaged the vascular walls. Most renal artery aneurysms are small, and do not require medical treatment. However, larger aneurysms that are in danger of rupturing may require surgery. ...

Renal Artery Stenosis

Renal artery stenosis (RAS) is the narrowing of one or both of the renal arteries, the blood vessels that carry blood to the kidneys from the aorta. RAS often causes high blood pressure and reduced kidney function, but many times it has no symptoms until it becomes severe. Most cases of RAS are caused by a condition called "atherosclerosis," the clogging, narrowing and hardening of the renal arteries. RAS develops when plaque builds up on the inner wall of the renal arteries, causing them to harden and narrow. RAS can also be caused by fibromuscular dysplasia, an abnormal growth of tissue within the wall of the artery, which also causes the blood vessels to narrow. ...

Renal Artery Stenting

Renal artery stenting is a common procedure performed to control renal artery stenosis (RAS), a condition in which the renal arteries have become narrow or blocked. During the procedure, a catheter is inserted through an artery to the affected area. A tiny balloon is inserted through the catheter and is gently inflated to flatten the plaque build up against the artery wall, thus widening the area through which blood can flow. A stent (small mesh or wire tube) is then positioned inside the artery to keep the artery open. ...

Renal Biopsy

A renal biopsy is a procedure in which a piece of tissue is extracted from a kidney to help diagnose a kidney disorder. There are two kidneys; located in the back of the abdominal cavity, they help to balance water, salts and minerals in the blood; filter waste products from the blood; and produce urine. ...

Renal Dysplasia

Renal dysplasia, also known as multicystic dysplastic kidney (MCDK), is a relatively uncommon birth defect in which one or both of the kidneys have not developed properly. As a result, urine builds up in the affected kidney, causing cysts to form inside.

Causes of Renal Dysplasia

Renal dysplasia may a result of a genetic condition. It may also be caused by certain prescription drugs taken by the mother during pregnancy, including drugs used to treat: ...

Renal Nuclear Medicine Scan

A renal (kidney) nuclear medicine scan is a diagnostic test used to evaluate kidney function and diagnose certain kidney diseases. It is an extremely effective diagnostic tool because, in addition to showing the anatomy of the kidneys, it reveals how well the kidneys are functioning. During the scan, a radioisotope or tracer is injected into a vein, and followed to and through the kidneys with special detectors; the process is viewed on a computer imaging screen. The images produced show the delivery of fluid into the kidneys through the bloodstream, the buildup of waste in the kidney, and the excretion of fluid from the kidneys through the ureters and into the bladder. Being able to analyze kidney function allows physicians to diagnose many kidney diseases and problems more quickly and accurately than is possible with standard imaging tests. ...

Renal Ultrasound

A renal ultrasound, commonly referred to as a sonogram, is an imaging exam that uses ultrasound waves to view the kidneys and urinary tract. A renal ultrasound provides clear and accurate images both for diagnostic purposes and for guidance prior to surgical procedures. Ultrasound technology not only allows a quick visualization of area without cutting, it makes possible an evaluation of blood flow to and from the kidneys. ...

Renal Vein Thrombosis

Renal vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the veins of the kidneys. This is a serious condition and as a result, the blood flow from the kidneys is reduced, causing decreased kidney function. While the cause of renal vein thrombosis is not always known, it may be caused by an abdominal aortic aneurysm. Additional causes may include trauma, severe dehydration, a tumor, or a blood disorder. In women, pregnancy or the use of estrogen may lead to renal vein thrombosis. Left untreated, renal vein thrombosis may lead to serious complications including permanent kidney failure. ...

Renal Venogram

A venogram is diagnostic test that uses X-rays, in conjunction with an injection of contrast dye, to show how blood flows through the veins. The dye allows the veins to be viewed more clearly on the X-ray images. A renal venogram is used to view the veins and monitor blood flow within the kidneys. It helps to detect blood clots and tumors, and measure hormone production within the kidneys. ...

Renovascular Disease

Renovascular disease is the blockage or narrowing within the renal arteries or veins, the blood vessels that carry blood to and from the kidneys. The arteries are affected much more commonly than the veins. Renovascular disease can cause kidney damage or kidney failure. This condition occurs most often in older patients, although young women may also be at risk for a certain type of renovascular disease called fibromuscular dysplasia. ...

Restless Legs Syndrome

Restless legs syndrome, also known as RLS, is a condition that causes tingling sensations in the feet and legs, prompting people to move them constantly to seek relief. These movements often occur at night or at periods of rest and can disrupt sleep. The exact cause of RLS is unknown but it may be caused by heredity, iron deficiency, kidney problems or peripheral neuropathy. RLS treatment varies based on any underlying conditions, however it is commonly treated with muscle relaxants and sleep inducing medication. Some women may experience restless legs syndrome while they are pregnant. This condition can affect patients of all ages, but tends to occur most often in older patients and is more common in women than men. ...

Retroperitoneal Ultrasound

A retroperitoneal ultrasound is a diagnostic test used to examine the area behind the intestines and other abdominal organs. It allows doctors to view the patient's kidneys and ureters and can help diagnose a number of conditions, such as renal cysts or gallstones. This procedure is painless and relatively quick. ...

Robotic Urologic Surgery

Surgery is often used to treat a variety of conditions affecting the organs of the male reproductive system and urinary tract. Given the sensitive nature of this area, many men are apprehensive about undergoing major surgery to treat their condition. Traditional urologic surgery requires large incisions to access the pelvic organs and may cause severe pain and long recovery times. There may also be long-term effects on continence and sexual function. Robotic urologic surgery can help ease common concerns by providing a safer, less invasive alternative to traditional surgery. ...

Ureterocele

A ureterocele is a congenital birth defect that causes swelling in the lower part of the ureter, the narrow tubes that carry urine to the bladder. If the swelling becomes severe and grows large enough, a ureterocele may cause an obstruction in the urethra, preventing urine from leaving the body. A ureterocele may also cause damage to the kidneys, bladder and urinary tract. ...

Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction

Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJ), is a blockage in the area that joins the renal pelvis to the ureters, which are responsible for sending urine into the bladder. A UPJ obstruction causes the kidneys to produce urine at a rate that exceeds the amount that is able to drain effectively causing urine to accumulate in the kidney. Left untreated, the build-up of urine in the kidneys may lead to infection, kidney stones, damage to the kidneys or kidney failure. ...

Urinalysis

Urinalysis is a test performed to analyze a patient's urine in order to assess overall health and to detect any possible disease conditions. It is normally administered in the doctor's office as part of comprehensive medical examination and may also be administered to diagnose the cause of a patient's symptoms. ...

Urinary Tract Infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common infection of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The urinary tract refers to just the bladder and the urethra, and an infection can develop in either of these areas. These infections occur much more frequently in women than in men and may cause intense pain and discomfort. ...

Urologic Interventions

Interventional treatment for urological conditions involves treating abnormalities caused by conditions such as kidney stones, cancer or renal disease. These conditions can cause painful symptoms or may put patients at risk for serious complications such as kidney failure or death. While some of these conditions may resolve on their own, intervention is often desired to help relieve symptoms as quickly as possible. ...

Vascular Access for Dialysis

Dialysis, short for "hemodialysis," is a blood-cleansing procedure used as treatment for chronic kidney failure. The chief function of the kidneys is to filter waste products from the blood. When the kidneys fail, dialysis takes over their function. During dialysis, blood is removed from a vein in the patient's arm (the leg is also used, albeit much less frequently), circulated through a filtering machine, and returned to the body through an artery. Before dialysis begins, a point of vascular access (the site where blood is removed and returned) must be created. ...

Wegener's Granulomatosis

Wegener's granulomatosis, also known as granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), is a rare disease characterized by the inflammation of blood vessels. In addition to blocking blood flow to vital organs, this condition causes the formation of granulomas (inflamed masses) around the blood vessels, destroying normal tissue. ...

Wound Care and Lymphedema Treatment

Lymphedema results from insufficient drainage of lymphatic fluid in an extremity. The resultant pooling of lymphatic fluid causes the extremity to swell, which can lead to infection or ulceration. Lymphedema may be caused by any of several disease processes, or may be a congenital condition. It is also possible for lymphedema and venous disorders to exist in the same patient. When lymphedema is complicated by poor circulation, there is likely to be great difficulty in healing the patient's wounds. ...

Acute Renal Failure

Causes of Acute Renal Failure

Acute renal failure can be caused by a loss of blood flow to the kidneys, or when blocked or damaged kidneys prevent urine from flowing. Although ARF can affect anyone, it is more common in older people, and those who suffer from underlying conditions that include the following: ...