Nephrology

Nephrology

Nephrology is a specialty of medicine that concerns itself with the study of normal kidney function, kidney problems, the treatment of kidney problems and renal replacement therapy. Systemic conditions that affect the kidneys and systemic problems that occur as a result of kidney problems are also studied in nephrology. A physician who has undertaken additional training to become an expert in nephrology may call themselves a nephrologist or renal physician. Kidneys are essential to our health. Kidneys sit just below the rib cage, toward your back.

The kidneys, two bean-shaped organs about the size of a fist, act as a filtering system for the body. Kidneys are the organs that help filter waste products from the blood. They are also involved in regulating blood pressure, electrolyte balance, and red blood cell production in the body. Renal pertaining to the kidney; called also nephric. Renal clearance tests laboratory tests that determine the ability of the kidney to remove certain substances from the blood.