Definition:
Nephropathy pertains to disease or damage of the kidney. Previously, nephropathy was known by its older term, nephrosis.
Diagnosis:
Tests to determine nephropathy include: kidney ultrasound; abdominal CT scan; creatinine clearance; IVP; radionuclide cystogram; serum BUN; serum creatinine; urinalysis; and urine culture. More specific diagnostic testing depends on the type of nephropathy involved.
Treatment:
Treatment for nephropathy depends on the underlying cause or condition.
Symptoms and Signs:
Symptoms of nephropathy resemble those of nephritis, which may include: edema; reduced urine; bloody urine; cloudy urine; kidney inflammation; and edema, among others.
Causes:
Nephropathy can be attributed to: long-term usage of analgesics; a deficiency in xanthine oxidase; as well as long-term exposure to lead or its salts. Analgesics that can cause nephropathy and other liver problems include acetaminophen, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
