Objective: To help inform primary care physicians about how to identify and slow progressive chronic renal failure.
Quality of evidence: The National Library of Medicine (1996 to 2000) was searched using PubMed with search terms pertinent to studies on identification, course, and management of chronic renal failure. References in retrieved papers and older literature known to the authors supplemented the searches. In general, sufficient high-quality studies, systematic reviews, or guidelines based on such evidence were available to support our main points.
Main message: End-stage renal disease (ESRD) poses a large and growing morbidity, mortality, and financial burden. Almost all patients reach ESRD as a result of chronic progressive conditions, particularly diabetic nephropathy, hypertensive-vascular renal disease, and glomerular disorders. Patients at risk merit regular renal assessment with serum creatinine tests and urinalysis. Persistent high blood pressure and heavy proteinuria are the strongest predictors of progression of chronic renal failure. Patients with renal disease should be examined and treated for vascular disease and vice versa. Blood pressure lowering, ACE inhibition, and avoidance of further renal insults (such as use of nephrotoxins) can slow the decline of renal function. Restricting dietary protein has a weak effect on slowing renal failure and is not easy to apply in primary care. Timely involvement of specialized nephrology teams is important.
Conclusion: Family physicians play an important role in recognizing patients with potential for renal failure, in demonstrating progressive chronic renal failure, and in initiating therapy early to improve outcomes.