Glomerular & Tubular Functions in Kidney Health

Flashcards covering key concepts related to kidney functions, acute and chronic kidney diseases.

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR)

A measure of the rate at which blood is filtered in the kidneys, normal value is 125 ml/min.

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

A condition characterized by a sudden decrease in kidney function, which can range from mild to severe.

Prerenal causes of AKI

Conditions that affect systemic circulation leading to reduced renal blood flow, such as severe dehydration and heart failure.

Intrarenal causes of AKI

Conditions that cause direct damage to kidney tissue, which may include acute tubular necrosis and nephrotoxins.

Postrenal causes of AKI

Mechanical obstruction of urinary outflow leading to kidney injury, examples include benign prostatic hyperplasia and kidney stones.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

A progressive, irreversible loss of kidney function characterized by a gradual decrease in GFR.

Stages of CKD

Stage 1: GFR > 90; Stage 2: GFR 60-89; Stage 3a: GFR 45-59; Stage 3b: GFR 30-44; Stage 4: GFR 15-29; Stage 5: GFR < 15 (Dialysis required).

Uremia

The buildup of waste products in the body due to kidney failure, affecting multiple organ systems.

Acute Tubular Necrosis (ATN)

A condition causing damage to kidney tubules, often due to prolonged ischemia or exposure to nephrotoxins.

Erythropoietin

A hormone produced by the kidneys that stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow.