The Pathophysiology of End-Stage Renal Disease

Functional changes that occur as a result of a disease are known as pathophysiology. The pathophysiology of end-stage renal (kidney) disease is significant, as there is a substantial decline in kidney function.

Impairment

• In end-stage renal disease, the kidneys are unable to filter wastes from the blood or eliminate excess fluid from the body. They also are unable to maintain normal levels of electrolytes in the blood.

Significance

• End-stage renal disease increases the risk of high blood pressure, iron-deficiency anemia and infections. The American Heart Association reports that end-stage renal disease also increases the risk for cardiovascular disease and causes increased levels of low-density lipoprotein (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides.

Identification

• Blood tests determine if excess waste products are present in the blood. High levels of microalbumin and protein in urine indicate progressive kidney damage. Hypertension caused by abnormal kidney function is detected with regular blood pressure measurements.

Classification

• End-stage renal disease is diagnosed when a person’s glomerular filtration rate (GFR) drops to less than 15 mL/min, according to the National Kidney Foundation. GFR is a measurement of kidney function calculated using a person’s age, gender, race, serum creatinine (waste product) levels and other factors.

Effects

• As waste products build up in your body, you may feel weak or sick. Nausea, vomiting and itching are common symptoms of end-stage renal disease. If electrolyte levels are severely imbalanced, serious complications such as abnormal heart rhythm, fainting, confusion, seizures and coma can occur. As excess fluid accumulates in the body, you may experience swelling of the feet, ankles, hands and face.