U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Improving the understanding, detection, and management of kidney disease.
Learn about the basics of kidney disease and how to keep the kidneys healthier longer.
Learn about the two recommended tests for kidney disease.
Learn MoreInformation for people living with kidney disease and their loved ones.
Learn about diet and lifestyle changes to help you live a healthier and longer life.
Learn MoreClinical information for health professionals on CKD evaluation, monitoring, management, and patient education.
Learn about laboratory measurement and reporting.
Information for family reunion planners, health educators, faith leaders and community organization leaders interested in sharing kidney health information in a variety of settings.
Learn how Federal agencies are leading the multi-faceted and interconnected response to CKD.
Explore and order NKDEP's free materials and tools for a variety of audiences on a variety of CKD-related topics.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is best identified and treated early as part of comprehensive primary medical care. Goals of medical management are to: identify and treat, monitor, slow progression, and reduce and treat complications. Additional goals include providing patient education about CKD, diet, lifestyle, and preparation for renal replacement therapy (RRT).
Urine and blood tests are used to detect and monitor kidney disease. The key markers are abnormal urine albumin levels and a persistent reduction in the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Identification of the etiology may help guide management. Early detection and appropriate treatment may improve prognosis in all age groups.
Learn MoreManagement of CKD involves an interdisciplinary approach. Monitoring trends in urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) and eGFR are used to assess response to interventions. Medical interventions include control of blood pressure, use of medications that block the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system; and glucose control in those with diabetes. Complications include cardiovascular disease, anemia, malnutrition, mineral and bone disorders, depression, and reduced functional status.
Learn MoreThe purpose of medical nutrition therapy (MNT) for CKD is to maintain good nutritional status, slow progression, and to treat complications. The key diet components to slowing progression of CKD are controlling blood pressure by reducing sodium intake, reducing protein intake, if excessive, and managing diabetes. NKDEP offers clinical reference and training tools for registered dietitians, as well as educational materials to use in MNT.
Learn MoreBecause routine urinalysis is no longer recommended as part of routine pediatric care, some children who would benefit from a urinalysis may not undergo this simple test. As a result, children with kidney disease may go undetected or not receive appropriate follow up. Urinalysis is important for pediatric patients who have one or more CKD risk factors. NKDEP offers educational materials for health professionals and parents of at-risk patients that encourage screening for CKD.
Learn MorePatients who develop kidney failure may benefit from early education about RRT. Early education gives the patient time to process the information and prepare both psychologically and physically. Treatment options include conservative management (no dialysis), hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and kidney transplantation.
Learn MoreCollaborative management by primary providers and consultants helps maintain continuity of care and may improve outcomes. Effective communication between providers facilitates collaborative care. The NKDEP Nephrology Referral from helps providers share important patient data with the consulting nephrologist.
Learn MoreThis section helps educators create and implement lessons plans for counseling patients with CKD about managing their disease and preparing for RRT. It also helps them find patient education content and resources based on CKD topic. The content meets the needs of qualified providers seeking to deliver the Kidney Disease Education Services benefit, as defined by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
Learn More
Nephrology Referral Form - for use when referring to nephrologists.
PDF files require Adobe Acrobat
Page last updated: March 1, 2012
NKDEP is an initiative of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), National Institutes of Health (NIH), U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS)
"NIH...Turning Discovery Into Health"
