Summary
The kidneys are vital organs that perform several functions in the human body, but they are susceptible to a variety of illnesses and disorders. Although many kidney diseases can be successfully treated, early detection is crucial, and symptoms of kidney disease often go unnoticed until the late stages of an illness. The National Kidney Foundation estimates that 26 million Americans have chronic kidney disease and that millions more are at risk and do not know it. Chronic kidney disease and kidney failure—including nephritis, nephrotic syndrome, and nephrosis—are the ninth leading cause of death among Americans, and kidney disease is connected to other serious health issues, such as diabetes and heart disease.
The Encyclopedia of Kidney Diseases and Disorders contains more than 100 detailed articles covering all aspects of the kidneys and kidney diseases. This comprehensive new A-to-Z resource explains how the kidneys work, as well as what diseases and disorders affect them, how they can be diagnosed, and how they can be treated. Appendixes provide directories of helpful organizations and resources, as well as kidney disease statistics.
Topics include:
- Acute kidney injury
- Chronic kidney disease
- Diabetic nephropathy
- End-stage renal disease
- Hemodialysis
- Kidney cancer
- Kidney stones
- Polycystic kidney disease.