Uremia

Abstract

Uremia is defi ned as a number of clinical symptoms observed in stages 4 and 5 (GFR 15-29 and <15 ml/min resp.) of chronic kidney disease (CKD). These symptoms may vary in order and severity. Without improvement of renal function or initiation of dialysis treatment, uremia leads to death. In stage 4, CKD symptoms of anemia as fatigue and dyspnea may be the fi rst signs of uremia, often followed by itching, uremic fetor, nausea in the morning, and vomiting. Uremic serositis may cause pericarditis or pleuritis. Without dialysis in CKD 5, diarrhea, dyspnea caused by hyperhydration, and neurologic complications as seizures, somnolence, and coma are observed.