NURS 3110 – Human Pathophysiology: Renal Function

These flashcards cover key terminology and concepts related to renal function alterations in human pathophysiology.

Cystitis

Inflammation of the bladder.

Nephrotic syndrome

Disease caused by loss of protein in the urine.

Hydronephrosis

Dilation of the renal pelvis, often due to a kidney stone obstructing a ureter.

Acute glomerulonephritis

Disease induced by group A beta-hemolytic strep infection.

Anuria

No urine output.

Pyelonephritis

Infection of the renal pelvis or kidney.

Creatinine

Waste molecule that is a by-product of muscle metabolism.

Urolithiasis

Synonym for kidney stones.

Calcium oxalate

Most common type of kidney stone.

Hematuria

Blood in the urine.

Dysuria

Painful urination.

Oliguria

Low urine output.

Plasma creatinine

An indicator of kidney function; levels increase when glomerular filtration rate decreases.

Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)

A test that measures the amount of nitrogen in your blood that comes from the waste product urea; levels increase when GFR decreases.

Creatinine clearance

A measure of the kidney's ability to filter creatinine from the blood; levels decrease when GFR decreases.

Urinary tract infection (UTI)

An infection in any part of the urinary system, often associated with certain risk factors such as gender and age.

Acute pyelonephritis

A severe kidney infection that can result from a UTI or other complications.

Hypoalbuminemia

Low levels of albumin in the blood, which can lead to fluid accumulation and edema.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD)

A long-term, progressive condition characterized by the gradual loss of kidney function.

Anemia in CKD

Often occurs due to decreased erythropoietin production by the kidneys.