Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
What Is It?
Progressive loss of kidney function over months to years, commonly caused by diabetes and hypertension. Staged by GFR and albuminuria.
How Is It Diagnosed?
GFR <60 mL/min for >3 months, or albuminuria >=30 mg/g on urinalysis. BMP with creatinine trending. Renal ultrasound.
How Is It Treated?
Control blood pressure (goal <130/80), optimize blood sugar, ACE inhibitor or ARB for proteinuria, SGLT-2 inhibitor, low-protein diet, avoid nephrotoxins. Nephrology referral for stage 3b+.
Tests and Imaging Typically Needed
BMP, urinalysis with microalbumin-to-creatinine ratio, CBC, phosphorus, PTH, lipid panel, renal ultrasound.
Approximate Self-Pay Costs
Office visit: $95-$150. Comprehensive labs: $80-$130. Renal ultrasound: $150-$350.