Nephrology

Nephrology is the branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, kidney stones, and conditions that affect how the kidneys filter waste and balance fluids in the body. It also covers the medical management of patients on dialysis or those being evaluated for a kidney transplant.

Because the kidneys are closely tied to blood pressure regulation, this branch frequently manages patients with hypertension that is either a cause or a result of kidney disease. Patients are commonly referred to this branch for abnormal blood or urine test results, persistent swelling in the legs or around the eyes, or a family history of kidney disease.

Kidney function is typically assessed through blood tests that estimate filtration rate, along with urine tests that check for protein or blood. Because kidney disease often progresses slowly and without obvious symptoms in its early stages, routine testing plays an important role in catching problems before significant kidney function is lost.