Q: My 31 years old relative recently underwent an ultrasound test for kidneys, and was diagnosed with bilateral renal parenchymal disease and the blood test also revealed an increase in serum creatinine values and urea. She consulted a nephrologist who said the kidneys were about 70% damaged and suggested biopsy for kidney. What is the best possible treatment for the same? Is this condition curable?

A:Based on the limited information, it seems that your relative has chronic kidney disease (CKD) characterised by persistently elevated serum creatinine level for more than 3 months. He is too young to have CKD especially if he doesn’t have common risk factors for kidney disease like diabetes and hypertension. As advised by his nephrologist, he would need extensive tests including blood tests, urine examination and possible kidney biopsy to ascertain the cause. Basic treatment is directed at the cause of CKD intended to stop or arrest the initial disease process. This often involves the need for steroids and certain immunosuppressive medications for certain types of kidney diseases involving inflammation of kidneys called nephritis. In addition, one needs common treatment measures directed to delay the progression of kidney disease over a period of time. Later includes strict control of blood pressure (target goal being <130/80 mm Hg) and avoidance of continuous daily intake of common kidney toxic medications like Voveran and Nimulid. Any qualified nephrologist in your city should be able to offer him the standard care.