From the Guidelines
Nephronia is not a recognized medical term, and it is possible that it may be a misspelling or a term that is not widely used in the medical field. However, based on the provided evidence, it appears that the question may be related to kidney disease or kidney infection. The most recent and highest quality study provided is from 2021, which discusses the ACR Appropriateness Criteria for renal failure 1. According to this study, acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common condition that affects up to 20% of hospital inpatients and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The study also discusses the importance of identifying the underlying cause of AKI, which can be categorized as prerenal, renal, or postrenal. The treatment of AKI typically involves addressing the underlying cause and may include supportive care such as fluid management and renal replacement therapy. In terms of chronic kidney disease (CKD), the study discusses the importance of early detection and treatment to prevent progression to kidney failure. The diagnosis of CKD is typically based on the presence of kidney damage or decreased kidney function, as indicated by a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of less than 60 mL/min per 1.73 m2 1. Other studies provided discuss the evaluation and treatment of patients with CKD, including the use of biomarkers such as albuminuria and urinary sediment to diagnose kidney damage 1. Additionally, the studies discuss the importance of monitoring renal function in patients with heart failure and the use of contrast-enhanced CT scans to diagnose kidney disease 1. Overall, the evidence suggests that kidney disease is a significant health concern that requires early detection and treatment to prevent progression and improve outcomes. Some key points to consider in the management of kidney disease include:
- Identifying the underlying cause of AKI or CKD
- Using biomarkers such as albuminuria and urinary sediment to diagnose kidney damage
- Monitoring renal function in patients with heart failure
- Using contrast-enhanced CT scans to diagnose kidney disease
- Providing supportive care such as fluid management and renal replacement therapy for patients with AKI
- Implementing early detection and treatment strategies to prevent progression to kidney failure in patients with CKD.
From the Research
Definition and Diagnosis of Nephronia
- Nephronia is a term that refers to a type of kidney infection, specifically acute lobar nephronia (ALN), which is considered a midpoint in the spectrum of upper urinary tract infections between acute pyelonephritis and intrarenal abscess 2.
- The diagnosis of ALN can be difficult, and a normal urinalysis may lead clinicians to dismiss a nephrogenic or urologic process 2.
- Imaging studies, such as contrasted computed tomography scans, can help confirm the diagnosis of ALN 2.
Treatment and Management of Nephronia
- The treatment of ALN typically involves inpatient management, which can be prolonged 2.
- The use of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) may be considered in patients with hypertension and albuminuria, which can help reduce the risk of kidney damage 3, 4.
- However, the use of ACE inhibitors or ARBs in patients with nephronia is not directly addressed in the available studies.
Related Kidney Conditions
- Hydronephrosis, a condition characterized by the dilation of the upper urinary tract, can lead to acute kidney injury and permanent nephron loss if not corrected 5.
- The management of hydronephrosis involves addressing the underlying cause of the condition, such as obstruction or infection 5.
- Nephrologists consider various patient characteristics, including age, cognition, comorbidity, and quality of life, when recommending dialysis or non-dialysis care for patients with renal failure 6.