Chronic Kidney Disease - Novel Insights into Pathophysiology and Treatment

Book excerpt: In clinical practice, all physicians have to deal with patients suffering from chronic kidney disease. Large numbers of these patients suffer from mild conditions, but nevertheless, they deserve special attention because inappropriate management may accelerate kidney function deterioration. On the other side, patients affected by end-stage renal disease require replacement therapies and often represent a challenge for clinicians due to their complex pathophysiology. Therefore, an adequate knowledge of the most important clinical and therapeutic aspects of renal failure is an essential requirement for every doctor, especially if we consider the increasing incidence and prevalence of this condition. The book summarises the most important etiopathogenetic and pathophysiologic aspects of chronic kidney disease and focuses the attention on important emerging topics: nutritional and dietary management, renoprotective interventions, new evidence about pathophysiological mechanisms provided by base research, innovations in pharmacological treatment, and strategies to improve patient’s quality of life. Data are reported in clear and concise language, supported by graphics, tables, and pictures that facilitate the comprehension of all the arguments.