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Uremic encephalopathy
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Uremic encephalopathy

Contributors: Andrea Wasilewski MD, Richard L. Barbano MD, PhD
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Synopsis

Uremic encephalopathy is defined as alterations in cognitive function in a patient with acute kidney injury or chronic kidney failure without other underlying conditions that would account for mental status change. Early features of uremic encephalopathy include lethargy, irritability, hallucinations, and disorientation. On physical examination, patients may have mild diffuse weakness with slowing of movements, tremor, myoclonus, and asterixis. Urea crystals (uremic frost) may appear on the skin. Patients with severe acute renal failure and acute uremia may present with coma or seizures.

Treatment includes hemodialysis, although there may be a 1- to 2-day lag time before significant improvements in mental status are appreciated.

If a patient fails to improve with hemodialysis, alternate causes of acute encephalopathy should be sought.

Codes

ICD10CM:
N25.9 – Disorder resulting from impaired renal tubular function, unspecified

SNOMEDCT:
35145002 – Uremic encephalopathy

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Last Reviewed:06/18/2018
Last Updated:08/23/2018
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Uremic encephalopathy
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A medical illustration showing key findings of Uremic encephalopathy : Fatigue, Vomiting, Asterixis, Creatinine elevated, Delirium, Irritability, Neuropathy peripheral, Anorexia, BUN elevated, Lethargy, Myoclonus, Hallucination
Copyright © 2024 VisualDx®. All rights reserved.