Chronic renal failure (CRF) is a functional diagnosis characterized by a progressive and generally irreversible decline in glomerular filtration rate (GFR). It is caused by a number of diseases, most commonly diabetes, glomerulonephritis,
hypertension
and the genetic diseases. The renal function of CRF patients declines by unrelenting progressive loss of nephron that persists long after the inciting event. CRF is not a curable disease. The aim of the treatment of CRF is to halt or delay the
progression of renal failure and amelioration of symptoms, not to cure of the disease. Systemic hypertension, glomerular hypertension, proteinuria and protein-rich diet contribute to the progression of renal failure. Restriction of dietary
protein
intake help to preserve residual renal function. Among the antihypertensives, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) is the drug of choice for blood pressure control in CRF patients, because this class of drug reduces intraglomerular
pressure.
There is a growing awareness of a need not only to identify CRF patients at an earlier stage in the disease process, but also to initiate treatment strategies earlier to delay progression of CRF and to define the optimal time required to prepare
CRF
patients for renal replacement therapy. Early referral to the nephrologist is important for timely intervention. The consequences of late referral include increased morbidity and mortality. There is also an impact on patient’s quality of life and
missed
opportunities for pre-emptive transplantation. Late referral also limits therapeutic options, and these limitations exert adverse effects on long-term outcomes once patients are on dialysis.
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