What is Nephrology or a Nephrologist?
A nephrologist is a physician who specializes in the field of Nephrology. A Nephrologist has completed an internal medicine residency and subsequently a fellowship in the specialty of nephrology. Nephrology is the study, diagnosis and treatment of kidney disorders. Nephrology primarily focuses on the progressive deterioration in kidney function called chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD is broken down into stages from 1 to 5. The end stage of CKD (ESRD) coincides with the need for renal replacement therapy (dialysis or transplantation). Nephrology also deals with conditions such as kidney stones, blood or protein in the urine, electrolyte disorders and fluid management issues. Nephrologists additionally have a unique perspective and training in Hypertension.
