Medical dictionary

What is a kidney biopsy? A kidney biopsy (or renal biopsy) is a diagnostic test in which the nephrologist extracts a small piece of tissue from the patient’s kidney to examine in a laboratory for signs of disease or kidney damage.   Why is a kidney biopsy done? A kidney biopsy may be performed to diagnose or determine the severity of a suspected kidney problem, to m

What is kidney cancer? Kidney cancer, sometimes referred to as renal cancer, is a type of cancer affecting the kidneys which most commonly occurs in people over the age of 60. It is one of the commonest cancers in the UK. There are different types of kidney cancer: renal cell carcinoma transitional cell carcinoma Wilm’s tumour Kidney cancers are graded on a scale of one-fou

What is pyelonephritis? Kidney infection, or pyelonephritis is a condition that causes one or two kidneys to become infected, resulting in inflammation. The infection first affects the lower urinary tract - usually the bladder - and then the kidneys, as it moves upstream.  It can be of two types: Acute: it is sudden and severe, and caused by a bacterial urinary trac

What is being analysed? A kidney stone risk profile is a comprehensive examination aimed at identifying factors that increase the likelihood of developing kidney stones. This profile assesses various parameters such as urine composition, blood chemistry, and other relevant markers to determine an individual's susceptibility to kidney stone formation.   What does the result me

What exactly are kidney stones, and how big are they? Kidney stones are solid masses, or, in other words, hard stone-like lumps, that form in the kidney or ureter (the tube that connects the kidneys to the bladder) as a result of substances in the urine. The size of a kidney stone can vary, but most typically they are as small as a grain of sand or as big as a pearl.   What

What is being analysed in this type of test? The analysis focuses on the presence and composition of kidney stones, which are hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys. How is the test used? Kidney stone analysis helps identify the type of stone present, such as calcium oxalate, uric acid, or struvite. This information guides treatment and prevention strategies.   Why is

What is a kidney transplant? A kidney transplant is an operation that involves placing a healthy kidney in a person with kidney failure. To do so a kidney donated by a healthy individual is required. This can either come from a living donor, related or not with the patient, or from a deceased person.   When are kidney transplantations needed? This treatment is indicated for pa

What is a kid's diet? A child’s diet should be balanced and nutritious. It is important to teach children that good eating habits are essential for their proper physical and intellectual development, and to establish appropriate eating habits. Children’s nutrition should be the responsibility of family, guardians, and the school.     Why is a kid&

What is kinesiotherapy? Kinesiotherapy, also known as kinesiology, is the core element of physical therapy (physiotherapy), using both active and passive movements of the body to strengthen the muscles or rehabilitate injuries, and enhance the individual’s mobility, endurance, and strength. According to some descriptions, it differs from physical therapy in that physical therapy emphasise