Handbook of Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a disease of the kidneys whereby they lose their function gradually over time. It also increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The cause of mortality in individuals with CKD is cardiovascular disease. CKD progresses over a number of stages in increasing order of kidney damage. Kidney damage with glomerular filtration rate (GFR) greater than 90 ml/min and persistent albuminuria qualifies for stage 1. As it advances, GFR reduces progressively. Finally when GFR becomes less than 15 ml/min (stage 5), kidney failure sets in and the disease enters its end-stage. At this stage, a permanent renal replacement therapy is required for survival of the patient. Although renal replacement therapies can sustain people indefinitely, the quality of life is severely compromised. For individuals with hypertension, diabetes or obesity, above 60 years of age, or with a history of cardiovascular disease or kidney disease in family, screening is recommended. Research in CKD is aimed at the development of effective compounds for treating the disease. The efficacy of sulodexide and olmesartan medoxomil in the management of CKD is currently under investigation. This book provides comprehensive insights into chronic kidney disease. It presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will be greatly assisted by this book.