Nephrology Rotation

Description

The Nephrology clerkship is designed to provide the student with an introduction to the pathophysiologic basis of renal disease. Clinical relevance of the pathophysiologic process is emphasized. Focus is on active student participation in the diagnosis and management of patients with acute and chronic renal disease under close supervision of faculty. In addition, elaboration on the principles of fluid and electrolyte therapy as well as the diagnosis and management of hypertension will be an integral part of the clerkship rotation. Patients with chronic renal failure often present with diseases involving multiple organ systems. This clerkship rotation will also offer first-hand experience on diagnosis and management of many acute medical problems including serious infections, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and neurologic emergencies.

You will have at least one weekend day off each week at the discretion of the attending.

Objectives

Recognition of the clinical symptomatology and management of common renal diseases, e.g., acute glomerulonephritis, nephrotic syndrome, acute and chronic renal failure based on the pathophysiology of the disease process.
Understanding the significance and physiologic principles of laboratory tests employed in the assessment of renal function.
Understanding the normal physiology of fluid, electrolyte and acid base balance. Diagnosis and management of common electrolyte and acid base disorders.
Understanding the immunologic mechanisms of renal disease. In-depth study of renal biopsy and correlation of renal histology with clinical renal diseases.
Insight into the metabolic and endocrine functions of the kidneys and metabolic consequences of renal failure.
Instructions pertaining to the diagnosis and management of various forms of hypertension, including renin-agiotensin aldosterone system.
Diagnosis and management of acute and chronic medical problems in patients with renal disease and renal failure.

Evaluation

H & P exam, patient evaluation and written plan of patient management.
Participate in daily patient rounds with faculty (and residents).
Renal biopsy sessions with the pathologist, renal attending and residents.

Faculty Responsible for Elective:

Lawrence J. Smith , M.D. (217) 788-3887

Additional Faculty:

Pradeep K. Mehta, M.D.
Sumantra Mitra, M.D.
Ashraf Tamizuddin, M.D.
Allen S. Krall, M.D.

Renal Disease and Electrolytes Recommended Books, Journals and Articles For Residents and Students

The Kidney, 2000 Rector and Brenner; W.B. Saunders and Company
Renal and Electrolyte Disorders, 6th Edition, 2002 Robert W. Schrier, M.D. Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins
Clinical Hypertension, 8th Edition, 2002 Norman Kaplan, M.D. Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins
Clinical Physiology of Acid Base and Electrolytes Disorders, 5th Edition, 2000 Burton David Rose, M.D.
Nephrology and Hypertension, 4th Edition, 1999 Tisher, CC, Wilcos, CS, eds, Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins
Manual of Nephrology, 5th Edition, 2000 Robert W. Schrier Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins

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