National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse 

The Kidney 

Diseases Dictionary 

NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH 

U.S. Department 

of Health and 

Human Services National Kidney and Urologic Diseases 

Information Clearinghouse

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Kidney 

Diseases Dictionary 

Some terms listed have many meanings; only those meanings that relate 

to kidney diseases are included. Words that appear in bold italic are listed 

elsewhere in the dictionary. 

Information in this dictionary is not a substitute for a visit to your doctor. 

Talk with a health professional if you have a kidney problem. 

The U.S. Government does not endorse or favor any specific commercial 

product or company. Trade, proprietary, or company names appearing in 

this document are used only because they are considered necessary in the 

context of the information provided. If a product is not mentioned, the 

omission does not mean or imply that the product is unsatisfactory. 

U.S. Department 

of Health and
�

Human Services
�

NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH 

National Kidney and Urologic Diseases 

Information Clearinghouse

 

 

Pronunciation Guide 

This pronunciation guide uses letters and letter combinations, rather than 

phonetic symbols, to stand for the various sounds in the English language. 

Vowels

a cat, bat 

ah father 

air pear, hair 

ar park 

ay say, came, weigh 

aw saw, bought 

e bet, set

 eh (used at the end of a syllable or when 

standing alone) 

examples: 

meadow (MEH-doh) 

enemy (EH-nuh-mee) 

but

diet (DY-et) 

ee feet, neat 

i sit, igloo

 ih (used at the end of a syllable or when 

standing alone) 

examples: 

chicken (CHIH-ken) 

miracle (MIHR-ih-kuhl) 

but

picnic (PIK-nik) 

ihr near, here 

y fire, idol

 eye (used at the beginning of a syllable or 

when standing alone) 

examples: 

iron (EYE-urn) 

chloride (KLOR-eyed) 

but

silent (SY-luhnt) 

o hot, cot 

oh coat, home 

oo food, rude 

or tore, soar, for 

oy soil, boy 

ou now, couch 

u put, foot 

uh about, sum, china 

ur hurt, alert 

yoo use 

yoor cure 

Consonants

b bat, job 

ch chop, itch 

d dig, bed 

f fur, tough, calf 

g grape, big 

h happy 

j joke, nudge 

k kite, car, tack 

l lip, sell 

m move, jam 

n not, knee 

ng ring 

p play, hop 

r rain, fur 

s set, tips 

ss bus, guess, fence 

sh shy, fish 

t toy, boat 

th breath 

v vine, have 

w walk, where 

y yes 

z zip, jazz, has 

zh measure

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A
� ACE inhibitor (ayss) (in-HIB-ih-tur): 

an oral medicine that lowers 

blood pressure. ACE stands for 

angiotensin-converting enzyme. 

For people who have protein 

(albumin) in the urine, it also 

helps slow down kidney damage. 

acute (uh-KYOOT): refers to 

conditions that happen suddenly 

and last a short time. Acute is 

the opposite of chronic, or long 

lasting. 

acute kidney injury (uh-KYOOT) 

(KID-nee) (IN-jur-ee): sudden 

and temporary loss of kidney 

function. See chronic kidney 

disease. 

acute tubular necrosis (ATN) 

(uh-KYOOT) (TOO-byoo-lur) 

(nuh-KROH-siss): a severe 

form of acute kidney injury that 

develops in people with severe 

illnesses, like infections, or with 

low blood pressure. Patients may 

need dialysis. Kidney function 

often improves if the underlying 

disease is treated successfully. 

ADH (AY-DEE-AYTCH): see 

antidiuretic hormone. 

albumin (al-BYOO-min): the main 

protein in blood. Large amounts 

of albumin in the urine may be a 

sign of chronic kidney disease. See 

urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio. 

albuminuria (al-BYOO-min-YOOree-uh): a condition in which 

the urine has more than normal 

amounts of a protein called 

albumin. Albuminuria may be a 

sign of kidney disease. 

allograft (AL-oh-graft): an organ or 

tissue transplant from one human 

to another. 

Alport syndrome (AWL-port) (SINdrohm): an inherited disorder 

that affects the cell membranes 

of the kidneys. It generally 

develops during early childhood 

and is more serious in boys than 

in girls. The condition can lead 

to end-stage renal disease, as well 

as hearing and vision problems. 

The common symptoms of this 

condition are chronic blood and 

protein in the urine. 

amino acids (uh-MEE-noh) (ASSidz): the basic building blocks 

of proteins. The body produces 

many amino acids and others 

come from food, which the body 

breaks down for use by the cells. 

See protein. 

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A
� amyloidosis (AM-ih-loy-DOH-siss): 

a condition in which a proteinlike 

material builds up in one or more 

organs. This material cannot be 

broken down and interferes with 

the normal function of that organ. 

In kidneys, amyloidosis can lead 

to proteinuria, nephrotic syndrome, 

and kidney failure. 

analgesic-associated kidney disease 

(AN-uhl-JEE-zik) (uh-SOH-seeayt-ed) (KID-nee) (dih-ZEEZ): 

loss of kidney function that results 

from long-term use of analgesic, 

or pain-relieving, medications. 

Analgesics that combine aspirin 

and acetaminophen are most 

dangerous to the kidneys. 

anemia (uh-NEE-mee-uh): a 

condition in which the number of 

red blood cells is less than normal, 

resulting in less oxygen carried 

to the body’s cells. Anemia can 

cause extreme fatigue. Anemia 

is common in people with chronic 

kidney disease or those on dialysis. 

See erythropoietin. 

angiotensin (AN-jee-oh-TEN-sin): 

a substance in the blood that 

causes blood vessels to constrict, 

thus raising blood pressure. 

antibiotic (AN-tee-by-OT-ik): a 

medicine that kills bacteria. 

antidiuretic hormone (ADH) 

(AN-tee-DY-yoo-RET-ik) 

(HOR-mohn): a natural body 

chemical that slows down the 

production of urine. Some 

children who wet the bed 

regularly may lack normal 

amounts of antidiuretic hormone. 

Also called vasopressin. 

anuria (an-YOO-ree-uh): a 

condition in which the body stops 

making urine. 

ARB (arb): an oral medicine that 

lowers blood pressure. ARB 

stands for angiotensin receptor 

blocker. For people who have 

protein (albumin) in the urine, 

it also helps slow down kidney 

damage. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3 

A 

arteriovenous (AV) fistula 

(ar-TIHR-ee-oh-VEE-nuhss) 

(FISS-tyoo-luh): surgical 

connection of an artery directly 

to a vein, usually in the forearm, 

created in people who will 

need hemodialysis. The AV 

fistula causes the vein to grow 

thicker, allowing the repeated 

needle insertions required for 

hemodialysis. Development of 

the AV fistula takes 4 to 6 months 

after surgery before it can be 

used for hemodialysis. The AV 

fistula is the preferred method of 

vascular access. See hemodialysis 

under dialysis. 

Arteriovenous fistula 

arteriovenous (AV) graft (ar-TIHRee-oh-VEE-nuhss) (graft): in 

hemodialysis, surgical connection 

of an artery to a vein using a soft, 

flexible tube, which can be used 

for repeated needle sticks. See 

hemodialysis under dialysis. 

From 

hemodialysis 

machine 

To 

hemodialysis 

machine 

Arteriovenous graft 

Looped graft 

Artery 

Vein 

artery (AR-tur-ee): a large blood 

vessel that carries blood with 

oxygen from the heart to all parts 

of the body. 

ATN (AY-TEE-EN): see acute 

tubular necrosis. 

autoimmune disease (AW-tohih-MYOON) (dih-ZEEZ): a 

disorder in which the body’s 

immune system attacks and 

destroys body tissue instead 

of protecting the body from 

foreign substances, as it 

normally does. Examples are 

Goodpasture syndrome and 

lupus erythematosus. See lupus 

nephritis.
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B
� bacteria (bak-TIHR-ee-uh): tiny 

organisms that cause infection or 

disease. 

biopsy (BY-op-see): a procedure in 

which a tiny piece of tissue, such 

as from the kidney or bladder, is 

removed for examination with a 

microscope. 

bladder (BLAD-ur): the balloonshaped organ inside the pelvis 

that holds urine. 

blood pressure: the force of blood 

exerted on the inside walls of 

blood vessels. Blood pressure is 

expressed as two numbers. For 

example, a blood pressure result 

of 120/80 is said as “120 over 80.” 

The first number is the systolic 

pressure, or the pressure when 

the heart pushes blood out into 

the arteries. The second number 

is the diastolic pressure, or the 

pressure when the heart rests. 

blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (bluhd) 

(yoo-REE-uh) (NY-troh-jen): 

a waste product in the blood 

that comes from the breakdown 

of protein. The kidneys filter 

blood to remove urea. As kidney 

function decreases, the BUN level 

increases. 

bruit (broo-EE): a whooshing sound 

made when blood flows through 

a narrow vessel. A bruit in the 

abdomen may be a sign of renal 

artery stenosis. 

BUN (BEE-YOO-EN): see blood 

urea nitrogen. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C
� calcitriol (KAL-sih-TRY-ol): a 

hormone produced by the kidneys 

to help the body absorb dietary 

calcium into the blood and bones. 

calcium (KAL-see-uhm): a mineral 

the body needs for strong 

bones and teeth. Under certain 

conditions, calcium may form 

stones in the kidney. 

calcium oxalate stone (KAL-seeuhm) (OK-suh-layt) (stohn): a 

kidney stone made from calcium 

and oxalate. 

CAPD (SEE-AY-PEE-DEE): see 

continuous ambulatory peritoneal 

dialysis under dialysis. 

catheter (KATH-uh-tur): a tube 

inserted through the skin into 

a blood vessel or cavity to draw 

out body fluid or infuse fluid. In 

peritoneal dialysis, a catheter is 

used to infuse dialysis solution 

into the abdominal cavity and 

drain it out again. See peritoneal 

dialysis under dialysis. 

CCPD (SEE-SEE-PEE-DEE): see 

continuous cycling peritoneal 

dialysis under dialysis. 

chronic (KRON-ik): refers to 

disorders that last a long time, 

often years. Chronic kidney 

disease may develop over many 

years and lead to end-stage renal 

disease. Chronic is the opposite 

of acute, or brief. 

chronic kidney disease (CKD) 

(KRON-ik) (KID-nee) (dihZEEZ): any condition that 

causes reduced kidney function 

over a period of time. CKD 

is present when a patient’s 

glomerular filtration rate remains 

below 60 milliliters per minute 

for more than 3 months or 

when a patient’s urine albuminto-creatinine ratio is over 

30 milligrams (mg) of albumin 

for each gram (g) of creatinine 

(30 mg/g). CKD may develop 

over many years and lead to endstage renal disease. 

chronic kidney disease-mineral 

and bone disorder (CKD-MBD) 

(KRON-ik) (KID-nee) (dihZEEZ) (MIN-ur-uhl) (and) 

(BOHN) (diss-OR-dur): 

abnormal bone hormone levels 

caused by the failure of the 

diseased kidneys to maintain 

the proper levels of calcium and 

phosphorus in the blood. CKDMBD results in weak bones, 

a condition known as renal 

osteodystrophy. CKD-MBD is a 

common problem in people with 

kidney disease and affects almost 

all patients receiving dialysis. 

CKD (SEE-KAY-DEE): see chronic 

kidney disease. 

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C
� CKD-MBD (SEE-KAY-DEE-EMBEE-DEE): see chronic kidney 

disease-mineral and bone disorder. 

congenital nephrotic syndrome 

(kon-JEN-ih-tuhl) (nef-ROT-ik) 

(SIN-drohm): a genetic kidney 

disease that develops before birth 

or in the first few months of life. 

Congenital nephrotic syndrome 

usually leads to end-stage renal 

disease and the need for dialysis 

or a kidney transplant by the 

second or third year of life. 

continuous ambulatory peritoneal 

dialysis (CAPD) (kon-TIN-yoouhss) (AM-byoo-luh-TOR-ee) 

(PAIR-ih-toh-NEE-uhl) (dy-ALih-siss): see peritoneal dialysis 

under dialysis. 

continuous cycling peritoneal dialysis 

(CCPD) (kon-TIN-yoo-uhss) 

(SY-kling) (PAIR-ih-tohNEE-uhl) (dy-AL-ih-siss): see 

peritoneal dialysis under dialysis. 

creatinine (kree-AT-ih-neen): a 

waste product from protein in 

the diet and from the normal 

breakdown of muscles of the 

body. Creatinine is removed 

from blood by the kidneys; as 

kidney disease progresses, the 

level of creatinine in the blood 

increases. 

creatinine clearance (kree-AT-ihneen) (KLIHR-ants): a test 

that measures how efficiently 

the kidneys remove creatinine 

from the blood. Low creatinine 

clearance indicates impaired 

kidney function. 

cyst (sist): an abnormal sac 

containing gas, fluid, or a 

semisolid material. Cysts may 

form in the kidneys or in other 

parts of the body. See medullary 

sponge kidney, renal cysts, and 

polycystic kidney disease. 

cystine stone (SISS-teen) (stohn): 

a rare form of kidney stone 

consisting of the amino acid 

cystine. 

cystinuria (SISS-tih-NYOO-ree-uh): 

a condition in which urine 

contains high levels of the amino 

acid cystine. If cystine does not 

dissolve in the urine, it can build 

up to form kidney stones. 

cystitis (siss-TY-tiss): inflammation 

of the bladder, causing pain and 

a burning feeling in the pelvis or 

urethra. 

cystoscope (SISS-toh-skohp): a 

tubelike instrument used to 

look inside the urethra and 

bladder. The procedure is called 

cystoscopy. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

D
� diabetes (DY-uh-BEE-teez): a 

condition characterized by high 

blood glucose, resulting from 

the body’s inability to use blood 

glucose for energy. In type 1 

diabetes, the pancreas no longer 

makes insulin, and therefore 

glucose cannot enter the cells 

to be used for energy. In type 2 

diabetes, either the pancreas 

does not make enough insulin or 

the body is unable to use insulin 

correctly. Also called diabetes 

mellitus. 

diabetes insipidus (DY-uh-BEEteez) (in-SIH-puh-duhss): a 

condition characterized by 

frequent and heavy urination, 

excessive thirst, and an overall 

feeling of weakness. This 

condition may be caused by a 

defect in the pituitary gland or 

the kidney. In diabetes insipidus, 

blood glucose levels are normal. 

See nephrogenic diabetes insipidus. 

dialysate (dy-AL-ih-SAYT): the part 

of a mixture that passes through 

a semipermeable membrane. The 

wastes from blood that pass 

into the dialysis solution become 

dialysate. The term dialysate is 

sometimes used as a synonym for 

dialysis solution. 

dialysis (dy-AL-ih-siss): the process 

of filtering wastes from the blood 

artificially. Filtering wastes is 

normally done by the kidneys. 

If the kidneys fail, the blood 

must be filtered artificially. The 

two major forms of dialysis 

are hemodialysis and peritoneal 

dialysis. 

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D
�

● 	 hemodialysis (HEE-mohdy-AL-ih-siss): the use of a 

machine to filter wastes from 

the blood after the kidneys 

have failed. The blood travels 

through tubes to a dialyzer, 

which removes wastes and 

extra fluid. The filtered blood 

then flows through another set 

of tubes back into the body. 

●●	 peritoneal dialysis (PAIR-ihtoh-NEE-uhl) (dy-AL-ih-siss): 

filtering the blood by using the 

lining of the abdominal cavity, 

or belly, as a semipermeable 

membrane. A cleansing liquid, 

called dialysis solution, is 

drained from a bag into the 

abdomen. Fluid and wastes 

flow through the lining of the 

abdominal cavity and remain 

“trapped” in the dialysis 

solution. The solution is then 

drained from the abdomen, 

removing the extra fluid and 

wastes from the body. The 

two main types of peritoneal 

dialysis are continuous 

ambulatory peritoneal dialysis 

and continuous cycling 

peritoneal dialysis. 

Heparin pump 

(to prevent 

clotting) 

Dialyzer inflow 

pressure monitor 

Dialyzer 

Venous 

pressure monitor 

Air detector 

clamp 

Arterial 

pressure 

monitor 

Blood pump 

Filtered blood 

returned to 

body 

Blood removed 

for filtering 

Air trap and 

air detector 

Hemodialysis 

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D
� • continuous ambulatory 

peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) 

(kon-TIN-yoo-uhss) 

(AM-byoo-luh-TOR-ee) 

(PAIR-ih-toh-NEE-uhl) 

(dy-AL-ih-siss): a form of 

peritoneal dialysis that does 

not need a machine. With 

CAPD, the blood is always 

being filtered. The dialysis 

solution passes from a plastic 

bag through a catheter and 

into the abdomen. The 

dialysis solution stays in the 

abdomen with the catheter 

sealed. After several hours, 

the person using CAPD 

drains the solution back into 

a disposable bag. Then the 

person refills the abdomen 

with fresh solution through 

the same catheter to begin 

the filtering process again. 

• continuous cycling peritoneal 

dialysis (CCPD) (konTIN-yoo-uhss) (SY-kling) 

(PAIR-ih-toh-NEE-uhl) 

(dy-AL-ih-siss): a form of 

peritoneal dialysis that uses 

a machine. This machine 

automatically fills and drains 

the dialysis solution from the 

abdomen. A typical CCPD 

schedule involves three to 

five exchanges during the 

night while the person sleeps. 

During the day, the person 

using CCPD performs one 

exchange with a dwell time 

that lasts the entire day. 

dialysis solution (dy-AL-ih-siss) 

(suh-LOO-shuhn): a cleansing 

liquid used in the two major 

forms of dialysis—hemodialysis 

and peritoneal dialysis. Dialysis 

solution contains dextrose, 

a sugar, and other chemicals 

similar to those in the body. 

Dextrose draws wastes and 

extra fluid from the body into 

the dialysis solution. The term 

dialysate is sometimes used as a 

synonym for dialysis solution. 

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D–

dialyzer (DY-uh-LY-zur): an 

attachment to the hemodialysis 

machine. The dialyzer has 

two sections separated by a 

semipermeable membrane. One 

section holds dialysis solution. The 

other holds the patient’s blood. 

See hemodialysis under dialysis. 

Structure of a typical hollow fiber 

dialyzer 

diuretic (DY-yoo-RET-ik): an 

oral medicine that lowers blood 

pressure by aiding the kidneys in 

removing fluid from the blood. 

dwell time: in peritoneal dialysis, 

the amount of time dialysis 

solution remains in the patient’s 

abdominal cavity between 

exchanges. See peritoneal dialysis 

under dialysis. 

E

edema (eh-DEE-muh): swelling 

caused by too much fluid in the 

body. 

electrolytes (ee-LEK-troh-lyts): 

chemicals in the body fluids 

and dialysis solution, including 

sodium, potassium, magnesium, 

and chloride. The kidneys control 

the amount of electrolytes in the 

body. When the kidneys fail, 

electrolytes get out of balance, 

causing potentially serious health 

problems. Dialysis can restore 

the balance. 

end-stage renal disease (ESRD) 

(END-STAYJ) (REE-nuhl) 

(dih-ZEEZ): total and 

permanent kidney failure. When 

the kidneys fail, the body retains 

fluid. Harmful wastes build 

up. A person with ESRD needs 

treatment to replace the work of 

the failed kidneys. 

erythropoietin (uh-RITH-roh-POYuh-tin): a hormone made by the 

kidneys to help form red blood 

cells. Lack of this hormone may 

lead to anemia. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

E–

ESRD (EE-ESS-AR-DEE): see 

end-stage renal disease. 

ESWL (EE-ESS-DUHB-uhlYOO-EL): see extracorporeal 

shock wave lithotripsy. 

exchange (eks-CHAYNJ): in 

peritoneal dialysis, the draining 

of used dialysis solution from the 

abdomen, followed by refilling 

with a fresh bag of solution. See 

peritoneal dialysis under dialysis. 

extracorporeal shock wave 

lithotripsy (ESWL) (EKStruh-kor-POH-ree-uhl) (shok) 

(wayv) (LITH-oh-TRIP-see): a 

nonsurgical procedure using 

shock waves to break up kidney 

stones. 

F

feces (FEE-seez): the solid waste 

that passes through the rectum 

as a bowel movement. Feces are 

undigested food, bacteria, mucus, 

and dead cells. 

fistula (FISS-tyoo-luh): see 

arteriovenous fistula. 

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G
� GFR (JEE-EF-AR): see glomerular 

filtration rate. 

glomerular filtration rate (GFR) 

(gloh-MAIR-yoo-lar) (fil-TRAYshuhn) (rayt): the rate at which 

the kidneys filter wastes and extra 

fluid from the blood, measured in 

milliliters per minute. 

glomeruli (gloh-MAIR-yoo-ly): 

plural of glomerulus. 

glomerulonephritis (gloh-MAIR-yooloh-neh-FRY-tiss): inflammation 

of the glomeruli. Most often, 

it is caused by an autoimmune 

disease, but it can also result from 

infection. 

glomerulosclerosis (gloh-MAIRyoo-loh-skluh-ROH-suhss): 

scarring of the glomeruli. It 

may result from diabetes 

(diabetic glomerulosclerosis) 

or from deposits in parts of 

the glomeruli (focal segmental 

glomerulosclerosis). The 

most common signs of 

glomerulosclerosis are proteinuria 

and chronic kidney disease. 

glomerulus (gloh-MAIR-yoo-luhss): 

a tiny set of looping blood vessels 

in the nephron where blood is 

filtered in the kidney. 

Glomerulus 

Tubule 

Glomerulus 

Nephron 

Goodpasture syndrome (GUDpass-tyur) (SIN-drohm): a 

rare disease that usually 

includes bleeding from the 

lungs, coughing up blood, and 

inflammation of the kidneys that 

can lead to kidney failure. This 

condition is an autoimmune 

disease. 

graft: in a transplant, the 

transplanted organ or tissue. See 

also arteriovenous graft. 

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H
� hematocrit (hee-MAT-oh-krit): a 

measure that tells what portion 

of a blood sample consists of 

red blood cells. Low hematocrit 

suggests anemia or massive blood 

loss. 

hematuria (HEE-muh-TYOOree-uh): blood in the urine, 

which can be a sign of a kidney 

stone, glomerulonephritis, or other 

kidney problem. 

hemodialysis (HEE-moh-dy-AL-ihsiss): see dialysis. 

hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) 

(HEE-moh-LIT-ik) (yoo-REEmik) (SIN-drohm): a disease 

that affects the blood and blood 

vessels. It destroys red blood 

cells, cells that cause the blood 

to clot, and the lining of blood 

vessels. HUS is often caused by 

the Escherichia coli bacterium in 

contaminated food. People with 

HUS may develop acute kidney 

injury. 

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) 

(HEH-nok) (SHURN-lyn) 

(PUR-poo-ruh): an autoimmune 

disease affecting mostly children 

between ages 2 and 11 that 

causes the blood vessels in the 

skin to swell. Rash and bruising 

are the main symptoms. Kidney 

damage results in a small 

percentage of children with HSP. 

hormone (HOR-mohn): a natural 

chemical produced in an organ 

or gland and released into the 

blood to trigger or regulate 

particular body functions. The 

kidney releases three hormones: 

erythropoietin, renin, and calcitriol. 

HSP (AYTCH-ESS-PEE): see 

Henoch-Schönlein purpura. 

HUS (AYTCH-YOO-ESS): see 

hemolytic uremic syndrome. 

hydronephrosis (HY-droh-nehFROH-siss): swelling of the 

kidney and renal pelvis, usually 

because something is blocking 

urine from flowing into or out of 

the bladder. 

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14 

hydroureter (HY-droh-YOORuh-tur): swelling of the ureter, 

usually because something is 

blocking urine from flowing into 

or out of the bladder. 

Hydronephrosis and hydroureter 

hypercalciuria (HY-pur-KAL-seeYOO-ree-uh): abnormally large

amounts of calcium in the urine. 

hyperkalemia (HY-pur-kuh-LEEmee-uh): abnormally large 

amounts of potassium in the 

blood, often as a result of poor 

kidney function or inadequate 

dialysis. 

Hydroureter 

Hydronephrosis 

hyperoxaluria (HY-pur-OK-suhLYOO-ree-uh): unusually large 

amounts of oxalate in the urine, 

leading to kidney stones. 

hypertension (HY-pur-TEN-shuhn): 

a condition present when blood 

flows through the blood vessels 

with a force greater than normal. 

Also called high blood pressure. 

Hypertension can strain the 

heart, damage blood vessels, 

and increase the risk of kidney 

problems, heart attack, stroke, 

and death. 

Amount of 

blood 

in vessel 

Diameter of 

blood vessel 

Blood 

pressure 

Normal 

Too much 

Normal 

Normal 

Normal 

Narrow 

High 

Normal 

High 

Normal 

High 

Normal 

Hypertension 

H 

hypokalemia (HY-poh-kuh-LEEmee-uh): abnormally small 

amounts of potassium in the 

blood, often as the result of a 

kidney defect, including some 

forms of renal tubular acidosis. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I 

IgA nephropathy (EYE-JEE-AY) 

(neh-FROP-uh-thee): a kidney 

disorder caused by deposits of 

the protein immunoglobulin A 

(IgA) inside the glomeruli (filters) 

within the kidney. The IgA 

protein damages the glomeruli, 

leading to blood and protein in 

the urine, swelling in the hands 

and feet, and sometimes kidney 

failure. 

immune system (ih-MYOON) 

(SISS-tuhm): the body’s system 

for protecting itself from viruses 

and bacteria or any foreign 

substances. 

immunosuppressant (IM-yoo-nohsoo-PRESS-uhnt): a drug given 

to stop the natural responses 

of the body’s immune system. 

Immunosuppressants are given to 

prevent organ rejection in people 

who have received a transplant 

and to people with certain 

autoimmune diseases, like lupus. 

inflammation (IN-fluh-MAY-shuhn): 

swelling and redness that results 

from injury to tissue. 

insulin (IN-suh-lin): a hormone 

that helps the body use glucose 

for energy. The beta cells of the 

pancreas make insulin. When 

the body cannot make enough 

insulin, insulin must be taken by 

injection or other means. 

interstitial nephritis (IN-turSTISH-uhl) (neh-FRY-tiss): 

inflammation of the kidney cells 

that are not part of the fluidcollecting units. Interstitial 

nephritis is a condition that can 

lead to acute kidney injury or 

chronic kidney disease. 

intravenous pyelogram (IN-truhVEE-nuhss) (PY-el-oh-GRAM): 

an x ray of the urinary tract. A 

dye is injected into a vein in the 

patient’s arm to make the kidneys, 

ureters, and bladder visible on the 

x ray and to show any blockage in 

the urinary tract. 

15
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K
� kidney (KID-nee): one of the two 

bean-shaped organs that filter 

wastes from the blood. The 

kidneys are located near the 

middle of the back, one on each 

side of the spine. They create 

urine, which is delivered to the 

bladder through tubes called 

ureters. 

kidney disease (KID-nee) (dihZEEZ): see acute kidney injury 

and chronic kidney disease. 

kidney dysplasia (KID-nee) (dissPLAY-zee-uh): a condition in 

which the internal structures of 

one or both of a baby’s kidneys 

do not develop normally while 

the baby is growing in the womb. 

Fluid-filled sacs called cysts 

replace normal kidney tissue. 

Kidney dysplasia usually happens 

in only one kidney. 

kidney failure (KID-nee) (FAYLyoor): loss of kidney function. 

See end-stage renal disease, acute 

kidney injury, and chronic kidney 

disease. 

kidney function (KID-nee) 

(FUHNK-shuhn): the amount 

of work done by the kidneys. A 

decline in kidney function means 

the kidneys are not filtering 

wastes and fluid from the blood 

as well as they should. See 

glomerular filtration rate. 

kidney stone (KID-nee) (stohn): 

a stone that develops from 

crystals that form in urine and 

build up on the inner surfaces 

of the kidney, in the renal pelvis, 

or in the ureters. Kidney stones 

include calcium oxalate stones, 

cystine stones, struvite stones, and 

uric acid stones. 

Kt/V (KAY-TEE-OH-vur-VEE): a 

measurement of dialysis dose. 

The measurement takes into 

account the efficiency of the 

creatinine clearance, the treatment 

time, and the total volume of 

urea in the body. Kt/V is also 

used in determining the adequacy 

of peritoneal dialysis. See urea 

reduction ratio. See peritoneal 

dialysis under dialysis. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

L–M

lithotripsy (LITH-oh-TRIP-see): a 

method of breaking up kidney 

stones by using shock waves or 

other means. 

lupus nephritis (LOO-puhss) (nehFRY-tiss): inflammation of the 

kidneys caused by an autoimmune 

disease called systemic lupus 

erythematosus. The condition 

can cause hematuria and 

proteinuria, and it may progress 

to end-stage renal disease. 

MCDK (EM-SEE-DEE-KAY): see 

multicystic dysplastic kidney and 

kidney dysplasia. 

medullary sponge kidney (MSK) 

(MED-yoo-LAIR-ee) (spuhnj) 

(KID-nee): a birth defect in 

which cysts form in the central 

part of the kidney, causing a 

spongelike appearance and 

blocking the flow of urine 

through the tubules. 

membrane (MEM-brayn): see 

semipermeable membrane. 

membranoproliferative 

glomerulonephritis 

(MPGN) (MEM-bruhnoh-proh-LIF-ur-uh-tiv) 

(gloh-MAIR-yoo-loh-neh-FRY-tiss): 

a disease in which inflammation 

leads to scarring in the glomeruli, 

causing proteinuria, hematuria, 

and sometimes chronic kidney 

disease or end-stage renal disease. 

MPGN occurs primarily in 

children and young adults. 

17
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M–

membranous nephropathy 

(MEM-bruh-nuhss) (nehFROP-uh-thee): a disorder 

that hinders the kidneys’ ability 

to filter wastes from the blood 

because of harmful deposits 

on the glomerular membrane. 

Some cases of membranous 

nephropathy develop after 

an autoimmune disease or 

malignancy, but most develop 

without a known cause. 

MPGN (EM-PEE-JEE-EN): 

see membranoproliferative 

glomerulonephritis. 

MSK (EM-ESS-KAY): see 

medullary sponge kidney. 

multicystic dysplastic kidney 

(MCDK) (MUHL-tee-SISS-tik) 

(diss-PLASS-tik) (KID-nee): 

see kidney dysplasia. 

N

nephrectomy (neh-FREK-toh-mee): 

surgical removal of a kidney. 

nephrogenic diabetes insipidus 

(NEF-roh-JEN-ik) (DY-uhBEE-teez) (in-SIH-puh-duhss): 

constant thirst and frequent 

urination because the kidney 

tubules cannot respond to 

antidiuretic hormone. The result 

is an increase in urine formation 

and excessive urine flow. 

nephrolithiasis (NEF-roh-lih-THYuh-siss): the condition of having 

kidney stones. 

nephrologist (neh-FROL-uh-jist): 

a doctor who treats people who 

have kidney problems or related 

conditions, such as hypertension. 

nephrology (neh-FROL-uh-jee): a 

branch of medicine concerned 

with diseases of the kidneys. 

nephron (NEF-ron): a tiny part of 

the kidneys. Each kidney is made 

up of about 1 million nephrons, 

which are the working units of 

the kidneys, removing wastes and 

extra fluids from the blood. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

N–

nephropathy (neh-FROP-uh-thee): 

disease of the kidneys. See acute 

kidney injury and chronic kidney 

disease. 

nephrostomy (neh-FROST-uh-mee): 

a catheter, or tube, inserted into 

the kidney through the skin to 

allow urine to drain directly from 

the kidney into an external bag. 

nephrotic syndrome (nef-ROT-ik) 

(SIN-drohm): a collection of 

symptoms that indicate kidney 

damage. Symptoms include high 

levels of protein in the urine, lack 

of protein in the blood, and high 

blood cholesterol. 

nuclear scan (NOO-klee-ur) (skan): 

a test of the structure, blood flow, 

and function of the kidneys. The 

doctor injects a mildly radioactive 

solution into a patient’s arm vein 

and uses x rays to monitor its 

progress through the kidneys. 

O

oxalate (OK-suh-layt): a chemical 

that combines with calcium in 

urine to form the most common 

type of kidney stone, the calcium 

oxalate stone. 

19
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P
� pancreas (PAN-kree-uhss): an organ 

that makes insulin and enzymes 

for digestion. The pancreas is 

located behind the lower part of 

the stomach and is about the size 

of a hand. 

pelvis (PEL-viss): the bowl-shaped 

bone that supports the spine and 

holds up the digestive, urinary, 

and reproductive organs. The 

legs connect to the body at the 

pelvis. 

percutaneous nephrolithotomy 

(PUR-kyoo-TAY-nee-uhss) 

(NEF-roh-lih-THOT-uh-mee): 

a method for removing kidney 

stones via surgery through a small 

incision in the back. 

peritoneal cavity (PAIR-ih-toh-NEEuhl) (KAV-ih-tee): the space 

inside the lower abdomen but 

outside the internal organs. 

peritoneal dialysis (PAIR-ih-tohNEE-uhl) (dy-AL-ih-siss): see 

dialysis. 

peritoneum (PAIR-ih-toh-NEEuhm): the semipermeable 

membrane lining the peritoneal 

cavity. 

phosphate (FOSS-fayt): phosphorus 

combined with oxygen. 

phosphate binders (FOSS-fayt) 

(BYND-urz): medications that 

bind phosphate in the digestive 

tract so that phosphate leaves the 

body in feces. 

phosphorus (FOSS-for-uhss): a 

mineral found in many foods, 

such as beans, nuts, milk, and 

meat. Too much phosphorus in 

the blood pulls calcium from the 

bones. 

pituitary gland (pih-TOO-ihTAIR-ee) (gland): a pea-sized 

gland at the base of the brain that 

regulates the body’s balance of 

hormones. 

PKD (PEE-KAY-DEE): see 

polycystic kidney disease. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

21 

P 

polycystic kidney disease (PKD) 

(POL-ee-SISS-tik) (KID-nee) 

(dih-ZEEZ): an inherited 

disorder characterized by many 

grapelike clusters of fluid-filled 

cysts that make both kidneys 

larger over time. These cysts 

take over and destroy working 

kidney tissue. PKD may cause 

chronic kidney disease and endstage renal disease. 

Polycystic kidney disease 

potassium (poh-TASS-ee-uhm): a 

mineral and electrolyte found in 

the body and in many foods. 

protein (PROH-teen): 1. one 

of the three main nutrients in 

food. Foods that provide protein include meat, poultry, fish, 

cheese, milk, dairy products, 

eggs, and dried beans. 2. proteins are also used in the body 

for cell structure, fighting infection, and other functions. After 

the body’s cells use protein, it is 

broken down into waste products 

containing nitrogen that must 

be removed by the kidneys. The 

blood absorbs amino acids and 

uses them to build and mend 

cells. 

Cysts 

Ureter 

Polycystic 

kidney 

Healthy kidney 

Sources of protein 

proteinuria (proh-teen-YOOree-uh): a condition in which the 

urine contains large amounts of 

protein, a sign that the kidneys are 

damaged. See albumin and urine 

albumin-to-creatinine ratio. 

pyelonephritis (PY-uh-loh-neh-FRYtiss): an infection of the kidneys, 

usually caused by a germ that has 

traveled up through the urethra, 

bladder, and ureters from outside 

the body. 
22 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

R
� renal (REE-nuhl): of or relating to 

the kidneys. A renal disease is 

a disease of the kidneys. Renal 

failure means the kidneys are 

damaged. 

renal agenesis (REE-nuhl) (ay-JENuh-siss): the absence or severe 

malformation of one or both 

kidneys. 

renal artery stenosis (REE-nuhl) 

(AR-tur-ee) (steh-NOH-siss): 

narrowing of the artery that 

supplies blood to the kidney, 

often resulting in hypertension 

and kidney damage. 

renal cell carcinoma (REE-nuhl) 

(sel) (KAR-sih-NOH-muh): a 

type of kidney cancer. 

renal cysts (REE-nuhl) (sists): 

abnormal fluid-filled sacs in the 

kidney that range in size from 

microscopic to much larger. 

Many simple cysts are harmless, 

while other types can seriously 

damage the kidneys. 

renal osteodystrophy (REE-nuhl) 

(OSS-tee-oh-DISS-troh-fee): 

weak bones caused by chronic 

kidney disease-mineral and bone 

disorder. Renal osteodystrophy is 

a common problem for people on 

dialysis who have high phosphate 

levels or insufficient vitamin D 

supplementation. 

renal pelvis (REE-nuhl) (PEL-viss): 

the basin into which the urine 

formed by the kidneys is excreted 

before it travels to the ureters and 

bladder. 

renal tubular acidosis (REE-nuhl) 

(TOO-byoo-lur) (ASS-ih-DOHsiss): a defect in the kidneys that 

hinders their normal excretion 

of acids. Failure to excrete 

acids can lead to weak bones, 

kidney stones, and poor growth in 

children. 

renal vein thrombosis (REE-nuhl) 

(vayn) (throm-BOH-siss): blood 

clots in the vessel that carries 

blood away from one of the 

kidneys. This condition can 

occur in people with nephrotic 

syndrome. 

renin (REE-nin): a hormone made 

by the kidneys that helps regulate 

the volume of fluid in the body 

and blood pressure. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

S–T

semipermeable membrane 

(SEM-ee-PUR-mee-uh-buhl) 

(MEM-brayn): a thin sheet, or 

layer, of tissue that lines a body 

cavity or separates two parts 

of the body. A semipermeable 

membrane can act as a filter, 

allowing some particles to pass 

from one part of the body to 

another while keeping other 

particles in place. In hemodialysis, 

the artificial membrane in a 

dialyzer acts as the semipermeable 

membrane filtering waste products 

from the blood. In peritoneal 

dialysis, the peritoneum acts as the 

semipermeable membrane. 

Blood compartment 

Waste 

Waste products 

Blood cells 

Semipermeable 

membrane 

products 

Dialysis solution 

compartment 

Semipermeable membrane 

struvite stone (STROO-vyt) (stohn): 

a type of kidney stone caused by 

infection. 

thrill: a vibration or buzz that 

can be felt in an arteriovenous 

fistula, an indication that blood is 

flowing through the fistula. 

transplant (TRANZ-plant): 

placement of a healthy organ into 

the body to take over the work 

of a damaged organ. A kidney 

transplant may come from a 

living donor, often a relative, or 

from someone who has just died. 

tubule (TOO-byool): one of millions 

of tiny structures within the 

kidneys that collect urine from the 

glomeruli. 

23
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U
� UACR (YOO-AY-SEE-AR): see 

urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio. 

ultrasound (UHL-truh-sound): a 

technique that bounces safe, 

painless sound waves off organs to 

create an image of their structure. 

urea (yoo-REE-uh): a waste 

product found in the blood 

that results from the normal 

breakdown of protein in the 

liver. Urea is normally removed 

from the blood by the kidneys 

and then excreted in the urine. 

Urea accumulates in the body of 

people with kidney failure. 

urea reduction ratio (URR) 

(yoo-REE-uh) (ree-DUHKshuhn) (RAY-shee-oh): a blood 

test that compares the amount 

of blood urea nitrogen before 

and after dialysis to measure the 

effectiveness of the dialysis dose. 

uremia (yoo-REE-mee-uh): the 

illness associated with the 

buildup of urea in the blood 

because the kidneys are damaged. 

Symptoms include nausea, 

vomiting, loss of appetite, 

weakness, and mental confusion. 

ureteroscope (yoo-REE-tur-ohskohp): a tool for examining 

the bladder and ureters and for 

removing kidney stones through 

the urethra. The procedure is 

called ureteroscopy. 

ureters (YOOR-uh-turz): tubes that 

carry urine from the kidneys to 

the bladder. 

urethra (yoo-REE-thruh): the tube 

that carries urine from the bladder 

to the outside of the body. 

uric acid stone (YOOR-ik) (ASS-id) 

(stohn): a kidney stone that may 

result from a diet high in animal 

protein. When the body breaks 

down this protein, uric acid levels 

rise and can form stones. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

U
� urinalysis (YOOR-ih-NAL-ih-siss): 

a test of a urine sample that can 

reveal many problems of the 

urinary tract and other body 

systems. The sample may be 

observed for color, cloudiness, 

and concentration; signs of drug 

use; chemical composition, 

including glucose; the presence 

of protein, blood cells, or germs; 

or other signs of disease. 

urinary tract (YOOR-ih-NAIR-ee) 

(trakt): the system that takes 

wastes from the blood and 

carries them out of the body in 

the form of urine. The urinary 

tract includes the kidneys, renal 

pelvises, ureters, bladder, and 

urethra. 

urinary tract infection (UTI) 

(YOOR-ih-NAIR-ee) (trakt) 

(in-FEK-shuhn): an illness 

caused by harmful bacteria 

growing in the urinary tract. 

urinate (YOOR-ih-nayt): to release 

urine from the bladder to the 

outside of the body. 

urine (YOOR-in): liquid waste 

product filtered from the blood 

by the kidneys, stored in the 

bladder, and expelled from the 

body through the urethra by the 

act of voiding, or urinating. See 

urinate and void. 

urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio 

(UACR) (YOOR-in) (al-BYOOmin) (too) (kree-AT-ih-neen) 

(RAY-shee-oh): a measurement 

that compares the amount of 

albumin with the amount of 

creatinine in a urine sample. 

A patient has chronic kidney 

disease if the UACR is over 

30 milligrams (mg) of albumin 

for each gram (g) of creatinine 

(30 mg/g). 

urolithiasis (YOOR-oh-lih-THYuh-siss): the condition of having 

stones in the urinary tract. 

URR (YOO-AR-AR): see urea 

reduction ratio. 

UTI (YOO-TEE-EYE): see urinary 

tract infection. 

25
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26 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

V–W

vascular access (VASS-kyoo-lur) 

(AK-sess): a general term to 

describe where blood is removed 

from and returned to the body 

during hemodialysis. A vascular 

access may be an arteriovenous 

fistula, an arteriovenous graft, or a 

catheter. See hemodialysis under 

dialysis. 

vasculitis (VASS-kyoo-LY-tiss): 

inflammation of the blood vessel 

walls. This swelling can cause 

rash and disease in multiple 

organs of the body, including the 

kidneys. 

vasopressin (VAY-soh-PRESS-in): 

see antidiuretic hormone. 

vein (vayn): a blood vessel that 

carries blood to the heart. 

vesicoureteral reflux (VESS-ih-kohyoo-REE-tur-uhl) (REE-fluhks): 

an abnormal condition in which 

urine backs up into the ureters, 

and occasionally into the kidneys, 

raising the risk of infection. 

void: to urinate; to empty the 

bladder. 

Wegener’s granulomatosis 

(VUHG-uh-nurz) (GRANyoo-loh-muh-TOH-siss): an 

autoimmune disease that damages 

the blood vessels and causes 

disease in the lungs, upper 

respiratory tract, and kidneys. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

National Kidney Disease Education Program 

3 Kidney Information Way 

Bethesda, MD 20892 

Phone: 1–866–4–KIDNEY (1–866–454–3639) 

TTY: 1–866–569–1162 

Fax: 301–402–8182 

Email: nkdep@info.niddk.nih.gov 

Internet: www.nkdep.nih.gov 

The National Kidney Disease Education Program (NKDEP) is an initiative 

of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 

National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services. The NKDEP aims to raise awareness of the seriousness of kidney 

disease, the importance of testing those at high risk, and the availability of 

treatment to prevent or slow kidney disease. 

27
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National Kidney and Urologic Diseases 

Information Clearinghouse 

3 Information Way 

Bethesda, MD 20892–3580 

Phone: 1–800–891–5390 

TTY: 1–866–569–1162 

Fax: 703–738–4929 

Email: nkudic@info.niddk.nih.gov 

Internet: www.kidney.niddk.nih.gov 

The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse 

(NKUDIC) is a service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive 

and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). The NIDDK is part of the National 

Institutes of Health of the U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services. Established in 1987, the Clearinghouse provides information 

about diseases of the kidneys and urologic system to people with kidney 

and urologic disorders and to their families, health care professionals, 

and the public. The NKUDIC answers inquiries, develops and distributes 

publications, and works closely with professional and patient organizations 

and Government agencies to coordinate resources about kidney and 

urologic diseases. 

Publications produced by the Clearinghouse are carefully reviewed 

by both NIDDK scientists and outside experts. This publication was 

reviewed by Beth Ulrich, Ed.D., R.N., editor, Nephrology Nursing Journal.

This publication is not copyrighted. The Clearinghouse encourages 

users of this publication to duplicate and distribute as many copies as 

desired. 

This publication is available at www.kidney.niddk.nih.gov.

This publication may contain information about medications. When 

prepared, this publication included the most current information 

available. For updates or for questions about any medications, contact 

the U.S. Food and Drug Administration toll-free at 1–888–INFO–FDA 

(1–888–463–6332) or visit www.fda.gov. Consult your health care provider 

for more information. 
 

U.S. DepArTmeNT oF HeALTH 

AND HUmAN SerViCeS 

National institutes of Health 

NIH Publication No. 11–4359 

February 2011

The NIDDK prints on recycled paper with bio-based ink.
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