HomeWhat is kidney failure ?
CKD – Chronic kidney disease
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterised by a gradual and irreversible decline in kidney function. It is often silent in its early stages and may progress slowly over several years. At present, there is no treatment capable of fully restoring lost kidney function, except for kidney transplantation, which can replace the function of failing kidneys.19,22
The 5 stages of chronic kidney disease33
Stage 1 :
Kidney damage with normal kidney function (Glomerular Filtration Rate > 90 mL/min). Few or no symptoms.
Stage 2 :
Early mild kidney impairment (Filtration Rate between 60 and 89 mL/min). Medical monitoring is recommended.
Stage 3 :
Moderate kidney impairment (Filtration Rate between 30 and 59 mL/min). The first symptoms may begin to appear.
Stage 4 :
Severe kidney impairment (Filtration Rate between 15 and 29 mL/min). Preparation for replacement therapy (dialysis or transplantation) should be considered.
Stage 5 :
End-stage kidney disease (Filtration Rate < 15 mL/min). Dialysis or kidney transplantation becomes essential.
When kidney disease reaches an advanced stage (Stage 5), replacement therapies become necessary.
Although CKD cannot currently be cured, it is possible to slow its progression and preserve kidney function for as long as possible through several measures21,23 :
- Regular medical follow-up: blood and urine tests help monitor disease progression and adjust treatment when necessary.
- Strict management of associated conditions: diabetes and high blood pressure are the leading causes of CKD, and controlling them is essential to prevent worsening kidney function.
- A kidney-friendly diet: reducing salt, protein and phosphate intake helps lessen the workload on the kidneys.
- Proper hydration: drinking an appropriate amount of water according to medical advice.
- Stopping smoking and limiting certain medications: some anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics may worsen CKD.
AKI – Acute kidney injury
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a sudden and rapid decline in kidney function. Unlike chronic kidney disease, which develops gradually, AKI occurs abruptly and requires immediate medical attention.25
What are the main causes of AKI ?
AKI can be triggered by several factors25 :
- A sudden decrease in blood flow to the kidneys, caused by severe dehydration, major haemorrhage or septic shock.
- Direct kidney damage, caused by certain infections, toxins, or nephrotoxic medications (such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or certain antibiotics).
- Obstruction of the urinary tract caused by kidney stones, an enlarged prostate or tumours.
What are the symptoms of AKI?
AKI may present with25 :
- A sudden decrease in urine output (oliguria) or complete absence of urine (anuria).
- Severe fatigue, nausea and vomiting.
- Swelling of the legs or face (oedema).
- Disturbances in consciousness in severe cases.
In many cases, AKI is reversible if treated promptly. Hospitalisation may be required to identify the cause and provide appropriate treatment (rehydration, correction of electrolyte imbalances, medication adjustment). However, in some cases, kidney function does not fully recover, and AKI may progress to Stage 5 chronic kidney disease, requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation.25 Early detection and regular follow-up can help slow disease progression and better anticipate appropriate treatment options.