Nephrology, derived from the Greek words "nephros" (kidneys) and "logos" (science), is a medical specialty focused on the kidneys’ normal functions, pathologies, and the management of related conditions, including dialysis and kidney transplants. This field also addresses systemic diseases such as diabetes mellitus and rheumatic conditions that affect the kidneys, as well as secondary complications like hypertension and bone disorders related to renal disease.
Who Are Nephrologists?
Nephrologists are physicians who specialize in kidney care, having completed a six-year medical degree followed by a four-year internal medicine residency and a three-year nephrology fellowship.
Nephrologists diagnose and treat kidney diseases and associated conditions such as hypertension, fluid-electrolyte imbalances, and renal replacement therapies including dialysis and transplantations. Patients are referred for symptoms and conditions like acute and chronic renal failure, hematuria, proteinuria, dysuria, edema, kidney stones, diabetic nephropathy, and complications from systemic diseases affecting the kidneys. Nephrologists perform procedures such as renal biopsies, placement of hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis catheters, management of dialysis access, and care before and after kidney transplantation.
