Nephrologist :
A nephrologist is a kidney/renal specialist who specializes in evaluation and treatment of medical conditions related to kidneys and urinary tract. They undergo rigorous training in diagnosis and clinical management of such conditions during academic years of MBBS Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) and MD (Doctor of Medicine) in General Medicine, DM (Doctorate of Medicine) in Nephrology. They may also pursue further fellowships in surgical management of the kidney related conditions. Some of the common nephrological conditions include acute kidney failure, chronic kidney disease, kidney stones, renal hypertension, renal artery stenosis, glomerulonephritis, renal tubular defects, renal tumors, proteinuria and hematuria. A nephrologist conducts diagnostic tests like comprehensive blood tests with eGFR, BUN and creatinine ratios to determine the extent of kidney damage. Further evaluation of kidney lesion and infections can be conducted with help of radiographic imaging studies and tissue biopsies. A nephrologist may recommend a treatment regimen to manage kidney related disorders which includes oral medications, increased hydration, electrolyte balance, lifestyle changes, and dialysis. In severe conditions, a kidney transplantation may also be performed with the help of a surgeon.