Substitution treatments for chronic kidney disease in geriatrics: dialysis, transplantation and medical treatment without dialysis

Abstract

Kidney disease, whether acute or chronic, is a particularly common condition in the elderly, due to its main risk factors, the prevalence of which increases with age, and the fact that recovery from acute tubular damage is slower. Wherever possible, treatment of renal failure should be anticipated and discussed with the patient as part of a shared medical decision. Numerous treatment options are available to ensure maximum integration into the patient's life and care plan: renal transplantation for the most robust patients, hemodialysis in a care facility or at home, peritoneal dialysis at home, or medical treatment without dialysis. The choice of one of these treatments must leave the patient free to change his or her treatment modality at any time.