Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Explained | Causes, Symptoms, Staging & Management (OSCE Guide)

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In this episode of OSCE Talk, we break down Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in a clear, structured, and clinically relevant way.

We cover what CKD actually is, how to recognise it, and—most importantly—how to approach it safely as a medical student or junior doctor.

We start with the definition of CKD and why it matters, before working through the most common causes, including diabetes, hypertension, and nephrotoxic medications.

We then explain the underlying pathophysiology, including nephron loss, hyperfiltration, and why proteinuria develops—linking this directly to key treatments like ACE inhibitors and SGLT2 inhibitors.

We also cover how CKD presents in real life, from asymptomatic early disease picked up on routine bloods, to advanced uraemia, fluid overload, and complications like anaemia and bone disease.

From there, we go through a practical and safe approach to:

• Investigations (eGFR, ACR, bloods, imaging)
• Staging (GFR + albuminuria)
• Management (blood pressure control, diabetes optimisation, medication choices)
• Complication management (anaemia, bone disease, electrolyte imbalance)

We also touch on end-stage kidney disease, including dialysis (haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis) and renal transplant.

Finally, we finish with a clear, structured approach to explaining CKD to a patient in an OSCE, using a simple framework you can apply in exams and clinical practice.

Disclaimer

OSCE Talk is an educational resource designed primarily to help healthcare students prepare for clinical examinations. Episodes on the key, exam-relevant and salient points of each topic and are not intended to provide a complete or exhaustive review of clinical management.

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Content is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for formal teaching, clinical supervision, local policies or current national guidance. While we aim to keep our content accurate and useful, medical guidance changes over time and episodes may contain omissions or necessary simplifications.

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Always refer to appropriate guidance when making clinical decisions or caring for patients.