Kidney Disease Overview and Management

Which of the following is NOT a symptom of kidney disease?

What is a common management approach for patients with kidney disease?

Which medication is typically used for immunosuppression after a renal transplant?

What percentage of patients on haemodialysis survive at least 5 years?

Post-transplantation, patients are at an increased risk for which of the following?

What is a common oral complication of cyclosporine treatment in patients with kidney disease?

Which condition is associated with potential infections in kidney disease patients?

What dental issue may arise due to the corticosteroid treatment in patients with kidney disease?

How does kidney disease potentially affect the salivary glands?

Which complication is linked to the treatment of patients with kidney disease and can affect their dental health?

Kidney Disease Signs & Symptoms

Swollen ankles, feet, or hands due to water retention
Shortness of breath
Increased need to urinate, especially at night
Insomnia
Itchy skin
Blood in urine (haematuria)
Weight loss and poor appetite

General Management of Kidney Disease

Low protein diet
Potassium restriction
Salt or water control
Dialysis or transplant
Prevention of further renal damage

Dialysis

Dialysis provides a normal life for up to 20% of patients but cannot prevent all complications
Over 70% of patients on haemodialysis survive at least 5 years
Renal transplant may become necessary

Renal Transplantation

Common and survival of the graft can be up to 90% at one year
Patients need to be immunosuppressed
Typical medications include:
- Corticosteroids
- Azathioprine
- Cyclosporine

Post Transplantation

Patients may still experience problems associated with renal failure.
They are susceptible to infection due to immunosuppression

Dental Relevance

Patients require steroid cover
Patients are susceptible to infections:
- Candida infections
- Herpes Simplex or Zoster
- Cytomegalovirus
- Epstein- Barr Virus infections
Lymphoma and skin, lip and cervical cancer are more common in these patients
Cyclosporine may cause gingival overgrowth
Patients may have bleeding tendencies due to underlying disease
Impaired drug excretion, potentially leading to infections with hepatitis B and other viruses
Hypertension often occurs
Bone lesions of the Jaw
Corticosteroid or other immunosuppressive treatment can impact dental health
Diet plays a vital role

Clinical Dental Relevance

Dry mouth
Halitosis
Metallic taste
Salivary gland swelling
Growth may be stunted
Tooth eruption is delayed
Enamel hypoplasia

Test your knowledge on the signs, symptoms, and management of kidney disease, including dialysis and transplantation. This quiz covers everything from dietary restrictions to post-transplant care, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of renal health.