Name of the Condition

• Chronic Kidney Disease, Stage 5 (CKD Stage 5)
• Also known as End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)

Summary

Chronic Kidney Disease, Stage 5 is the most severe form of kidney disease, where the kidneys have lost nearly all of their ability to function effectively. This stage requires dialysis or kidney transplantation to maintain life.

Causes

• Diabetes and high blood pressure are the most common causes.
• Other causes include glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, obstructive uropathy, and autoimmune diseases.

Risk Factors

• Uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension
• Family history of kidney disease
• Older age
• Ethnic background (African American, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American populations are at higher risk)
• Smoking and obesity

Symptoms

• Severe fatigue and weakness
• Swelling in the legs, feet, or ankles
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• Changes in urination patterns

Diagnosis

• Blood tests measuring creatinine and glomerular filtration rate (GFR)
• Urine tests for protein or blood
• Imaging studies such as ultrasounds
• Kidney biopsy in certain cases

Treatment Options

• Dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis) to remove waste products from the blood
• Kidney transplantation
• Medications to control blood pressure and manage other symptoms
• Dietary changes to reduce waste buildup

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With appropriate treatment such as dialysis or a kidney transplant, patients can live for many years.
• Regular monitoring is essential to assess kidney function, blood pressure, and overall health status.

Complications

• Heart disease
• Bone disease and mineral disorder
• Anemia
• Infections due to weakened immune system

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Adhere to prescribed dietary guidelines to limit sodium, potassium, and phosphorus
• Regular exercise
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake
• Strict control of blood sugar and blood pressure levels

When to Seek Professional Help

• Sudden increase in swelling or blood pressure
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Sudden changes in mental status, such as confusion

Additional Resources

• National Kidney Foundation: kidney.org
• American Kidney Fund: kidneyfund.org
• Local support groups and kidney care clinics

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate documentation specifying kidney function tests and stage of the disease.
• Avoid confusion between CKD stage 5 and earlier stages of CKD for accurate coding.
• Note if the patient has started dialysis or has received a kidney transplant, as this affects coding.