This section focuses on the early detection of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and what can be done to slow disease progression.
Learn about:
- what kidneys do when they work, and what happens when they don’t
- tests used to diagnose CKD
- steps general practitioners (GPs) and their patients can take to prevent CKD progressing to kidney failure
- advice on when a GP should refer their patient to a nephrologist (kidney specialist).
Use this information to guide discussions between the GP, patient, and their family and carers.
What the kidneys do
Learn what kidneys are, where they are located and how they support overall health.
More about chronic kidney disease
Overview of chronic kidney disease, including causes, symptoms, complications and screening.
Diagnosis and staging of chronic kidney disease
Key tests, staging criteria, and what results mean for ongoing care and management.
Referral to a nephrologist
Information and resources for people whose kidney disease is progressing and who may need to be referred to a kidney specialist, called a nephrologist.
Discussion points
Topic areas that should be discussed between patients and clinicians before deciding treatment for kidney failure.