Important aspects of physical examination in kidney disease

What are the important aspects of physical examination in kidney disease?

• BP measurement is a keystone of assessment of kidney disease. High BP can be a cause or a consequence of kidney disease. Proper measurement, with adequate resting, measurement of both arms, and assessment of change with posture should be a part of BP measurement.

• Assessment of volume: This is important for any case of acute kidney injury to make decisions about volume resuscitation, as well for advanced kidney disease to assess for volume overload. Typical components include jugular venous pressure, orthostatic BP measurements, skin turgor, and mucus membranes.

• Chest examination: Signs of volume overload (pulmonary edema); pericardial friction rub (in uremic pericarditis)

• Musculoskeletal system: See “Arthritis” section earlier.

• Skin: Many diseases, especially autoimmune diseases, can be accompanied by a skin rash, such as SLE and Henoch-Schönlein purpura. Kidney disease can also have skin manifestations (see Question 11 for more details).

15585

Sign up to receive the trending updates and tons of Health Tips

Join SeekhealthZ and never miss the latest health information

15856