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The kidneys are easily examined, and most pathological changes in the kidneys are distinguishable with ultrasound. US is an accessible, versatile inexpensive and fast aid for decision-making in patients with renal symptoms and for guidance in renal intervention. [1] Renal ultrasound (US) is a common examination, which has been performed for ...
One of the measures of kidney function is the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Other tests that can assess the function of the kidneys include assessment of electrolyte levels such as potassium and phosphate, assessment of acid-base status by the measurement of bicarbonate levels from a vein, and assessment of the full blood count for anaemia.
Distress related to results that are reported; Financial risks related to the scan, especially if it produces an indeterminate result; Risks entailed with treatment or further investigations required following the results. Abdominal obesity, gas within the colon, and barium within the intestines can all impact the accuracy of the test. [1]
Essentially, ultrasound tests can determine whether the composition of the kidney mass is mainly solid or filled with fluid. [ 49 ] A percutaneous biopsy can be performed by a radiologist using ultrasound or computed tomography to guide sampling of the tumour for the purpose of diagnosis by pathology .
Yet, CT scan is the best alternative for diagnosing intra-abdominal injury. [1] Computed tomography provides an overall better surgical strategy planning, and possibly fewer unnecessary laparotomies. Abdominal x-ray is therefore not recommended for adults with acute abdominal pain presenting in the emergency department. [2]
Whilst ultrasound allows for visualisation of the ureters and kidneys (and determine the presence of hydronephrosis and / or hydroureter), an IVU is useful for assessing the anatomical location of the obstruction. Antegrade or retrograde pyelography will show similar findings to an IVU but offer a therapeutic option as well.
Diagnosis is primarily made using ultrasound and CT. [2] CT and MRI imaging can show the space occupying lesions but doppler ultrasound is needed to display the hemodynamic changes occurring in the kidney. [8] Ultrasound is often the initial diagnostic test of choice but due to its low resolution further imaging may be necessary. [1]
The deterioration of kidney function may be signaled by a measurable decrease in urine output. Often, it is diagnosed on the basis of blood tests for substances normally eliminated by the kidney: urea and creatinine. Additionally, the ratio of BUN to creatinine is used to evaluate kidney injury. Both tests have their disadvantages.