What is chronic kidney disease stage 3
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Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 3
Definition and Importance of CKD Stage 3
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Stage 3 is a critical phase in the progression of kidney disease, characterized by a moderate decrease in kidney function. This stage is defined by an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) between 30 and 59 mL/min/1.73 m² . CKD Stage 3 is significant because it is often the first stage that can be identified through routine blood tests, making early detection and management crucial to prevent further progression to more severe stages.
Prevalence and Diagnosis Challenges
The prevalence of undiagnosed CKD Stage 3 is alarmingly high across various countries. Studies have shown that a significant proportion of patients with biochemical evidence of CKD Stage 3 remain undiagnosed. For instance, the REVEAL-CKD study reported undiagnosed prevalence rates of over 80% in countries like France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the USA . Factors contributing to this high rate of undiagnosed cases include older age, female sex, and lack of comorbid conditions such as diabetes or hypertension .
Clinical Outcomes and Risks
Patients with CKD Stage 3 face increased risks of cardiovascular events and mortality. Research indicates that individuals with CKD Stage 3 have higher rates of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality compared to those without CKD . The risk is particularly pronounced in patients with higher urinary albumin excretion, which is a marker of kidney damage and cardiovascular risk.
Treatment and Management Strategies
Effective management of CKD Stage 3 involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, pharmacological interventions, and regular monitoring. The American College of Physicians (ACP) recommends the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin II-receptor blockers (ARBs) for patients with hypertension and CKD to slow disease progression. Additionally, statin therapy is advised to manage elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels in these patients.
Role of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Recent studies have explored the potential benefits of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in managing CKD Stage 3. A multicenter trial demonstrated that TCM, either alone or in combination with benazepril, improved eGFR and reduced proteinuria with fewer side effects compared to benazepril alone. This suggests that integrating TCM with conventional treatments could offer a synergistic approach to improving renal function and patient outcomes.
Conclusion
CKD Stage 3 is a pivotal stage in chronic kidney disease that requires timely diagnosis and effective management to prevent progression to more severe stages. Despite its high prevalence, many cases remain undiagnosed, highlighting the need for improved screening and awareness. Combining conventional treatments with alternative therapies like TCM may enhance patient outcomes and provide a comprehensive approach to managing CKD Stage 3.
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