Review of Kidney Function and Renal Replacement Therapy

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to kidney function and renal therapy mechanisms discussed in the notes.

Incidence Rate

The number of adult patients starting renal replacement therapy (RRT) in a given population, expressed per million people.

Renal Replacement Therapy (RRT)

A medical treatment for kidney failure, including dialysis and transplantation.

Dialysis

A procedure that removes waste and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys can no longer do so.

Peritoneal Dialysis

A form of dialysis where the peritoneum is used as the membrane across which fluids and dissolved substances are exchanged from the blood.

Erythropoietin (EPO)

A hormone produced by healthy kidneys that stimulates the production of red blood cells.

Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)

A test that measures the rate at which blood is filtered in the kidneys.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

A gradual loss of kidney function over time, categorized into five stages based on eGFR.

Loop of Henle

A part of the nephron involved in the concentration of urine and maintenance of fluid balance.

Aquaporins

Proteins that form channels in the cell membrane allowing water to pass through, increased by anti-diuretic hormone (ADH).

Podocytes

Specialized cells in the Bowman's capsule of the kidney that wrap around capillaries and are involved in filtration.