Kidney Diseases:

End-Stage Renal Disease
Chronic Renal Failure is the gradual loss of kidney function. The condition of total or nearly total and permanent kidney failure is called End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). People with ESRD must undergo dialysis or transplantation to stay alive. Our physicians have several years of experience in all the latest modalities of dialysis and we offer dialysis service at many dialysis centers (See Satellite Offices and Dialysis Units).

As a person's kidney disease progresses, it is important to learn about the options for treating ESRD so an informed decision can be made between hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis and transplantation. Untreated end-stage renal disease may lead to seizures or a coma and will ultimately result in death.

Kidney Transplantation
A successful renal transplant improves the individual's quality of life and rehabilitation potential as well as significantly increasing the average life expectancy of those with end-stage renal disease.

Our physicians work closely with the Central Pennsylvania Transplant Associates to coordinate successful transplant services and medical management of patients needing kidney transplants. Dr. Diamond is the UNOS Nephrology Director for the Kidney Transplant Program at Harrisburg Hospital.

Renal Artery Disease
Renal artery disease occurs when one or both renal arteries become narrowed by inflammation or artherosclerosis, the build-up of fatty deposits along arterial walls. The result is rapidly escalating hypertension or high blood pressure, which if left untreated, can lead to stroke, heart attack, kidney failure or complete blockage of the artery.

A sudden rise in blood pressure in a person with mild hypertension controlled by medication also may suggest the presence of renal artery disease. Narrowing of the artery reduces blood flow into the kidney. Without treatment, the complications of renal artery disease can be disabling or fatal.

Unlike heart attack and stroke, there is no equivalent ailment when the kidneys suffer from renal artery stenosis. Familiarity and experience frequently lead to the correct diagnosis. Dr. Diamond is a published authority on this disorder and lectures nationally on this subject to heighten the suspicion for this condition in patients with high blood pressure and unexplained kidney failure, especially in the elderly.

Glomerulonephritis
Glomerulonephritis is an inflammation of the kidney filter units and is the third most common cause of end-stage renal disease.