Overview
Clinical Meaning
The kidneys are the primary regulators of electrolyte homeostasis, and renal dysfunction causes predictable electrolyte derangements.
The kidneys are the primary regulators of electrolyte homeostasis, and renal dysfunction causes predictable electrolyte derangements. Hyperkalemia is the most immediately life-threatening complication of CKD/AKI: normally, the kidneys excrete 90% of daily potassium load via the ROMK channels in the collecting duct under aldosterone regulation. In renal failure, potassium accumulates, and the addition of RAAS blockers (ACEi/ARBs), potassium-sparing diuretics, or high-potassium foods can precipitate dangerous levels. ECG changes progress: peaked T waves → PR prolongation → loss of P waves → widened QRS → sine wave → cardiac arrest. Hyperphosphatemia occurs because the kidneys cannot excrete dietary phosphorus; elevated phosphorus binds serum calcium, causing hypocalcemia and stimulating PTH release (secondary hyperparathyroidism), which drives osteoclastic bone resorption (renal osteodystrophy). The failing kidney also cannot convert 25-OH vitamin D to active 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (calcitriol), worsening hypocalcemia. Metabolic acidosis develops because the kidneys cannot regenerate bicarbonate or excrete hydrogen ions; the anion gap may be elevated (uremic acid accumulation) or non-anion gap (from reduced ammonium excretion). Hyponatremia in CKD is usually dilutional from impaired free water excretion. The NP manages these derangements with...
