4th July 2024

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is defined by abnormalities in the function or structure of the kidney which is present for more than 3 months. This can also be defined as a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of <60mL/minute/1.73m² or abnormal kidney structure or albuminuria. GFR and albuminuria are used to stage CKD. The former is based on age, sex, height and serum creatinine and cystatin C.  The most common causes of CKD are diabetes, hypertension, and glomerulonephritis. Complications are progressive, based on the level of CKD, and can include hypertension, anaemia, electrolyte disturbance, and end-stage renal failure.