>Common Kidney Disorders

Chronic kidney disease, kidney stones, glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, and urinary tract infections are 5 common kidney disorders seen in humans. There are various rodent models of chronic kidney disease, including spontaneous, genetic, and induced models. There are very few studies reported using rodent models of kidney stones because rodents are not prone to developing kidney stones, so rodent models of kidney stones require the induction of long standing hypercalciuria or hyperoxaluria. Humanized mouse prototypes exist that provide insight into mediators of glomerulonephritis. Genetically engineered mouse models are also providing insight into the molecular mechanisms of polycystic kidney disease. Finally, there are robust murine models used to study urinary tract infections, as well.

Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease is the most common form of kidney disease and is usually caused by high blood pressure. High blood pressure increases the pressure on the glomeruli and damages the blood vessels, causing kidney function to decline. When the kidneys deteriorate to the point that they can no longer properly perform their function, a patient needs to go on dialysis. Dialysis can treat kidney disease, but it doesn’t cure it. A kidney transplant is another form of treatment for kidney disease. Chronic kidney disease can also be caused by high blood sugar, due to diabetes, or if your body becomes overloaded with toxins.

Kidney Stones

Another common kidney problem are kidney stones. Solid masses are formed in the kidneys when minerals and other substances in the blood crystallize. Kidney stones often leave the body during urination, which can be extremely painful, but rarely causes severe problems.

Figure 1. Kidney Stones

Glomerulonephritis

An inflammation of the glomeruli is referred to as glomerulonephritis. It can be caused by infections, drugs, or congenital abnormalities and often gets better on its own.

Polycystic Kidney Disease

Polycystic kidney disease is another common kidney disorder, which is genetic and causes numerous cysts to develop in the kidneys. The cysts are small fluid-filled sacs that can interfere with kidney function and lead to kidney failure.

Figure 2. Polycystic Kidney Disease

Urinary Tract Infections

Bacterial infections within the urinary system are referred to as urinary tract infections (UTIs). The most common infections occur in the bladder and the urethra. They are easily treatable with antibiotics and rarely cause more serious problems. UTIs can become more severe if they are caused by an antibiotic resistant strain of bacteria. If they are left untreated, they can spread to the kidneys and cause kidney failure.