Question
What is the most common life-threatening complication of CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease)?
| A. |
Hyperkalemia
|
| B. |
Hyperthyroidism
|
| C. |
Serum creatinine level
|
| D. |
Decrease GFR
|
Show Answer
|
Correct Answer » A
Explanation
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|
Hyperkalemia:
This is the most life-threatening complication in patients with chronic kidney disease. As kidney function declines, the kidneys lose the ability to excrete potassium, leading to hyperkalemia. Elevated potassium levels can cause cardiac arrhythmias, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.
Explanation of Incorrect Options:
-
Hyperthyroidism: This is not a common or direct cause of life-threatening complications in CKD.
-
Serum creatinine level: While serum creatinine is an important marker of kidney function, it itself is not life-threatening. It reflects the severity of kidney damage, but high levels are not immediately life-threatening like hyperkalemia.
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Decrease GFR: Decreased GFR indicates worsening kidney function, but it is a gradual process. It’s the complications of reduced GFR, such as hyperkalemia, that are immediately life-threatening.
