Dictionary

neuropathy Any disease or malfunction of the nerves.

nephrolithotripsy, percutaneous See percutaneous nephrolithotripsy.

nephrologist A physician specializing in treating diseases of the kidneys.

nephrology The art and science of the care of the kidneys.

nephron A key unit of the kidney, a tiny funnellike structure that filters wastes as they enter and progress through the kidney.

nephropathy Any kidney disease.

nephropathy, diabetic See diabetic nephropathy.

nephrosclerosis A progressive disease of the kidneys that results from sclerosis (hardening) of the small blood vessels in the kidneys. Nephrosclerosis is most commonly associated with hypertension or diabetes and can lead to kidney failure.

nephrosis Any degenerative disease of the kidney tubules, the tiny canals that make up much of the substance of the kidney. Nephrosis can be caused by kidney disease, or it may be a complication of another disorder, particularly diabetes. Diagnosis is made via urine testing for the presence of protein, blood testing for lower-than-normal levels…

nephrotic syndrome See nephrosis.

nephrotomogram A series of X-rays of the kidneys that are taken from different angles to clearly show the kidneys, without the shadows of the organs around them.

nephrotoxic Poisonous to the kidney.