uremia
Pronunciation: yoo-REE-mee-ah
A toxic clinical syndrome resulting from severe kidney dysfunction with accumulation of uremic toxins in the blood.
Full Definition
Uremia is a clinical syndrome that occurs when kidney function is severely impaired, leading to the accumulation of uremic toxins, metabolic waste products, and excess fluid in the body. In pediatric nephrology, uremia typically develops in the setting of acute kidney injury or advanced chronic kidney disease. Clinical manifestations include nausea, vomiting, altered mental status, seizures, pericarditis, and bleeding tendencies. The condition requires urgent intervention with renal replacement therapy (dialysis) or kidney transplantation to prevent life-threatening complications.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from asymptomatic azotemia in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The child developed uremia with altered mental status requiring immediate dialysis." — ICU progress note
- "Uremic symptoms resolved following initiation of renal replacement therapy." — Hospital discharge summary