(nĕ-frīt'ĭs )

(nĕ-frit'ĭ-dēz‵)

Plural: nephritides

[ nephr- + -itis ]

Inflammation of the kidneys. The condition whether either acute or chronic, is caused by bacteria or their toxins, e.g., pyelonephritis, autoimmune disorders, e.g., poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, or toxic chemicals, e.g., pesticides, mercury, arsenic, lead, alcohol. The glomeruli, tubules, interstitial tissues, and renal pelvis may be affected.

Patient Care: Renal function is assessed by measuring serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and urine creatinine clearance levels. Signs of renal failure (oliguria, azotemia, acidosis) are reported. Hemoglobin, hematocrit, electrolyte levels, intake and output of fluids, and body weights are monitored. The health care provider observes, records, and reports hematuria and monitors blood pressure using the same cuff, arm, and position each time. Antihypertensive drugs are administered as prescribed. The patient is encouraged to maintain adequate hydration and follow the prescribed dietary restrictions, which may include limits on the amounts of sodium, potassium, fluid volume, and protein ingested. Intravenous fluid intake is monitored. Complications of hypertension are anticipated and prevented.

acute n.An inflammatory nephritis involving the glomeruli, the tubules, or the entire kidney. It may be degenerative, diffuse, suppurative, hemorrhagic, interstitial, or parenchymal, depending upon the portion of the kidney involved.

analgesic n.Analgesic nephropathy.

chronic n.A progressive nephritis in which the entire structure of the kidney or only the glomerular or tubular processes may be affected.

glomerular n.Glomerulonephritis.

hereditary n.Alport syndrome.

interstitial n.Nephritis associated with pathological changes in the renal interstitial tissue. The diseased tissue may be primary or due to a toxic agent such as a drug or chemical. Common findings include fever, rash, itch, and eosinophiles in the urine. The result is the destruction of the nephrons and serious impairment of renal function.

scarlatinal n.Acute glomerulonephritis complicating scarlet fever.

suppurative n.Nephritis associated with abscesses in the kidney.

transfusion n.Renal failure and tubular disease caused by transfusion of incompatible blood.

tubal n.An obsolete term for inflammation of kidney tubules.

tubulointerstitial n.Pyelonephritis.