What is CKD?

CKD, or Chronic Kidney Disease, is defined the presence of reduced kidney function for more than 3 months (no matter what the cause) OR the presence of ‘kidney damage’.

‘Kidney Damage’ includes:

  • Pathologic abnormalities (diagnosed by a kidney biopsy)
  • History of kidney transplantation.
  • Urinary sediment abnormalities (found on urinalysis). For example, findings of RBC, WBC, granular or fatty casts
  • Protein in urine, more specifically albumin in more than normal amounts.
  • Abnormalities found on imaging  (ultrasound, CT and MRI with or without contrast).

Symptoms of CKD

Possible findings in those with CKD

Low GFR Less than 60 mL/min
Anemia Low kidney hormone production
Abnormal urine Contains blood or protein
Abnormal CT scan or kidney ultrasound Indicated by kidney size change or shadowing
Low blood calcium Caused by low vitamin D production
Other diseases Pathologic changes on kidney biopsy