Case 22 - CKD

Question 1

How would you explain CKD to a patient?

Answer 1

A long term condition where the kidneys don’t work as well as they should.
It is common and is often assoicated with aging.
It is more common in people who are black or of south Asian origin.
Most people are able to live long lives with CKD, and it is uncommon for it to develop to ESRD.

Question 2

What are the symptoms of CKD?

Answer 2

Early stages: often no symptoms. 
Later stages: 
- weight loss. 
- poor appetite. 
- peripheral oedema (ankles, feet or hands). 
- SOB. 
- tiredness. 
- blood in the urine 
- increased need to pee - especially at night. 
- difficulty sleeping. 
- itchy skin. 
- muscle cramps. 
- feeling sick. 
- headaches. 
- erectile dysfunction.

Question 3

Investigations for CKD?

Answer 3

Bloods (to measure eGRF).
Urine analysis (PCR / ACR / casts or crystals / dipstick (presence of blood / protein / glucosuria)).
Kidney USS (atrophic, hypertrophic, polycystic).
Renal biopsy