Chronic kidney disease and its complications

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a complex disease affecting more than 20 million individuals in the United States. Progression of CKD is associated with a number of serious complications, including increased incidence of cardiovascular disease, hyperlipidemia, anemia, and metabolic bone disease. CKD patients should be assessed for the presence of these complications and receive optimal treatment to reduce their morbidity and mortality. A multidisciplinary approach is required to accomplish this goal.

Figures

Figure 1

Interplay of processes secondary to chronic kidney disease leading to cardiovascular disease and death. Red arrows: Pathogenetic pathways; black arrow: Feedback loop; kidney disease worsened by heart failure