nephrologists

Nephrologists are physicians who specialize in kidney care and diseases. They diagnose and treat a wide range of kidney conditions and oversee long-term management of patients with chronic kidney disease and those requiring renal replacement therapy. They work in hospital settings, outpatient clinics, and dialysis and transplant programs, often coordinating care with other specialists.

Training for nephrologists typically follows medical school and an internal medicine residency, followed by specialized fellowships in nephrology. In many countries, board certification requires demonstrating expertise in nephrology after completing internal medicine training. Ongoing continuing medical education is a standard part of maintaining certification.

The scope of nephrology encompasses evaluation and management of kidney function, electrolyte and acid-base disorders, and high-blood-pressure related to kidney disease. Common conditions treated include chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, glomerular diseases, inherited kidney disorders such as polycystic kidney disease, and disorders of mineral metabolism. Nephrologists also manage complex metabolic and hypertensive problems that affect kidney health and dialysis-related care.

Renal replacement therapy is a major component of the field. Nephrologists plan and oversee dialysis—including hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis—and coordinate with dialysis units and transplant teams. They may be involved in transplant evaluation and post-transplant care in collaboration with transplant surgeons and other clinicians.

Procedures and collaboration: In some centers, nephrologists perform kidney biopsies or assist with image-guided procedures, interpret laboratory and imaging results, and adjust medications such as antihypertensives, diuretics, and agents used to manage mineral metabolism. They frequently work with urologists, radiologists, pathologists, and allied healthcare professionals to optimize kidney health and patient outcomes.