chronic nephropathy

chronic nephropathy,

a kidney disorder characterized by generalized or local damage to the tubulointerstitial areas of the kidney. The condition frequently results from more than a single cause, such as diabetes and a bacterial infection. Toxins, in the form of drugs or heavy metals, including cadmium or lead, are common causes, as are gout, cystinosis, and other metabolic disorders. Sickle cell disease is one of several inherited factors that may contribute to chronic nephropathy, but the condition can also develop from no known cause. Symptoms include polyuria, renal acidosis, edema, proteinuria, and blood in the urine. Treatment varies with correction of underlying causal factors. See also kidney disease.