Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease is encountered by the primary care physician, in no small part owing to the high rates of hypertension and diabetes, the 2 most common etiologies of chronic kidney disease in the United States. As a primary care physician, it is important to understand the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and evaluation methods of chronic kidney disease even before a referral to nephrology. Additionally, the primary care physician plays a vital role in mitigating the risks of chronic kidney disease as well as the complications and comorbidities. (Source: Primary Care: Clinics in Office Practice)
Source: Primary Care: Clinics in Office Practice - September 23, 2020 Category: Primary Care Authors: Cornelia Charles, Allison H. Ferris Source Type: research

Nephritic Syndrome
This article describes the pathophysiology, incidence, clinical presentation, treatment, and di sease progression of these nephritic syndrome entities, and provides guidance for when to refer to a nephrologist. (Source: Primary Care: Clinics in Office Practice)
Source: Primary Care: Clinics in Office Practice - September 23, 2020 Category: Primary Care Authors: Perola Lamba, Ki Heon Nam, Jigar Contractor, Aram Kim Source Type: research

Diabetic Kidney Disease
Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the most common cause of chronic kidney disease in the United States. Approximately 30% to 40% of individuals with diabetes mellitus develop DKD, and the presence of DKD significantly elevates the risk for morbidity and mortality. Understanding of DKD has grown in recent years. This review describes the pathogenesis of DKD and expands on evidence-based strategies for DKD management, integrating traditional approaches for hyperglycemia, hypertension, and albuminuria management with emerging therapeutic options. Given the public health burden of DKD, it is essential to prioritize prevention, ...
Source: Primary Care: Clinics in Office Practice - September 22, 2020 Category: Primary Care Authors: Ryan Bonner, Oltjon Albajrami, James Hudspeth, Ashish Upadhyay Source Type: research

Nephrolithiasis
This article highlights the pathogenesis of kidney stones, the risk factors for their formation, and common complications. The article concludes with management guidelines for nephrolithiasis and when primary care physicians should refer patients to nephrology or urology. In light of the current opioid epidemic, salient points for nonopioid treatment as initial treatment of nephrolithiasis likewise are discussed. (Source: Primary Care: Clinics in Office Practice)
Source: Primary Care: Clinics in Office Practice - September 22, 2020 Category: Primary Care Authors: Kelley Bishop, Tobe Momah, Janet Ricks Source Type: research

Renal Repercussions of Medications
Medications are a common cause of acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease. Older patients with multiple comorbidities and polypharmacy are at increased risk and require extra diligence. Antimicrobials, antihypertensives, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are common offenders of drug-induced kidney injury. Other drug classes that can cause kidney damage include immunosuppressive medications, statins, proton pump inhibitors, and herbal supplements. Awareness of such medications and their mechanisms of nephrotoxicity helps decrease morbidity and mortality. If nephrotoxic agents cannot be avoided, hydration, avoi...
Source: Primary Care: Clinics in Office Practice - September 22, 2020 Category: Primary Care Authors: Rachel Shaddock, Katherine Vogel Anderson, Rebecca Beyth Source Type: research