1. What is united network of organ sharing (UNOS)? UNOS is the nonprofit, scientific and educational organization that administrates over the United States national organ registry known as the Organ…

1. What is home hemodialysis (HHD)? HHD is a kidney replacement modality for patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) that can be performed safely in the patient’s home environment. Assistance…

1. What is a urinary tract infection (UTI)? UTI is the presence of microorganisms in the urine or tissues of the normally sterile genitourinary tract. Infection may be localized to…

Technical aspects of hemodialysis 1. What are the components used during a hemodialysis procedure? The components needed to conduct dialysis include a dialysis machine, a method to access the patient’s…

1. What is the incidence of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) in african americans? African Americans represent about 13% of the United States population but account for more than one-third of…

1. What is the prevalence of chronic kidney disease in the elderly? Approximately 11% of patients older than age 65 years are noted to have chronic kidney disease (CKD) as…

1. What is the pathophysiology of sickle cell disease (SCD)? Hemolysis, vasoocclusion, and ischemia reperfusion are the clinical hallmarks of SCD. The substitution of glutamate for valine at position 6…

1. What changes take place in the kidney during pregnancy? The kidney undergoes anatomic and physiologic changes during normal pregnancy. The length of the kidney increases by 1 to 1.5…

1. What are cystic diseases of the kidneys? Cystic diseases of the kidney are a heterogeneous group of disorders that can be inherited, developmental, or acquired ( Box 43.1 )….

Acute tubulointerstitial nephritis 1. What is acute tubulointerstitial nephritis? Acute tubulointerstitial nephritis (ATIN) is characterized by inflammation and edema in the kidney tubulointerstitium and can cause acute kidney injury (AKI)….