The word Nephrology derives from the Greek term νεφρός (nephrós), meaning kidney, and the suffix -logy (study or science). Nephrology is a medical specialty dedicated to the morphological and functional study of the kidneys under both normal and pathological condition.

The kidneys are vital organs that play a crucial role in removing waste and maintaining fluid balance in our body. When kidney problems arise, a nephrologist is the specialist to consult for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

What does a nephrologist diagnose and what are some of the common conditions they manage?

1. Hypertension: High blood pressure can damage the kidneys over time. Nephrologists evaluate and treat patients with hypertension who may be at risk of kidney disease.

2. Chronic kidney disease: They diagnose and manage chronic kidney disease (CKD), a condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluid. This is assessed through laboratory tests that measure kidney function and detect the presence of proteins or blood in the urine.

3. Recurrent urinary tract infections: If you experience recurrent urinary tract infections, a nephrologist can investigate underlying causes such as obstructions or abnormalities in the urinary tract.

4. Kidney stones: Nephrologists can diagnose and help prevent the formation of kidney stones, small mineral deposits in the kidneys that can cause pain and block the flow of urine.

5. Autoimmune disorders: Conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus and glomerulonephritis are examples of autoimmune diseases that affect the kidneys. Nephrologists work closely with rheumatologists and other specialists to diagnose and treat these conditions.

6. Hereditary diseases: Some kidney diseases, such as polycystic kidney disease, have a genetic basis. A nephrologist may perform genetic testing and imaging studies to confirm these conditions.

7. Kidney transplantation: Nephrologists are also involved in the evaluation of kidney transplant donors and recipients, as well as in the follow-up and treatment of patients after transplantation.

In summary, nephrologists play a vital role in diagnosing and treating a wide range of kidney and urinary disorders. If you experience symptoms such as swelling, changes in urination, lower back pain, or if you have risk factors for kidney disease, it is important to seek the guidance of a nephrologist.

Early detection and proper treatment can help prevent serious complications and maintain long-term kidney health.

At our clinic, we have a Nephrology specialist capable of addressing any condition related to the health or functioning of the kidneys.

Dra. Mónica Furlano

Dra-monica-furlanoDr. Mónica Furlano is a specialist in Nephrology via the MIR program (2014) and an expert in genetically based kidney diseases. She is currently an attending physician in the Clinical Nephrology Unit at Fundació Puigvert (Barcelona), where she carries out both clinical and research activities in the field of hereditary kidney diseases. She also collaborates in nephrology with the private Urology service UROS Associats.

She holds a PhD in Medicine from the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (2020), awarded Cum Laude. Her research focuses on genetic kidney diseases, particularly Alport syndrome and polycystic kidney disease.

She completed specialized training in genetics at the IMAGINE Institute at Necker Hospital (Paris) and actively participates in national and international scientific projects and networks in nephrology.

She is a lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine of the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. She is the coordinator of the RenHerCat Hereditary Kidney Diseases Working Group of the Catalan Society of Nephrology and secretary of the GTERH (Hereditary Kidney Diseases Working Group) of the Spanish Society of Nephrology. She is the author of numerous scientific publications in national and international specialized journals.