A. Below are a few of the typical causes for which your doctor might recommend that you consult a nephrologist. - Kidney function loss that occurs suddenly or abruptly renal failure - Chronic kidney disease (CKD) that causes a steady reduction in renal function - Pyelonephritis, a kidney infection, and Cystitis, a bladder illness - Development of kidney stones repeatedly - Urine that contains casts, proteins, crystals, or blood - Electrolyte imbalances or an acid-base imbalance - Diabetic kidney disease - Hypertensive kidney disease (kidney damage from high blood pressure) - Atherosclerosis - Lupus, autoimmune vasculitis, and other autoimmune disorders - Drugs or toxins that could have damaged the kidneys