Glossary

Parathyroid glands (PTG)

Glands situated close to the thyroid glands. They secrete parathyroid hormone (PTH) and are chiefly concerned with the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus (see also hyperparathyroidism).

Parathyroid hormone (PTH)

Also called parathormone, it is secreted by the parathyroid glands and acts to regulate the concentration of calcium in the blood.

Peritoneal dialysis (PD)

A form of dialysis in which dialysis fluid is introduced into the peritoneal cavity in the patient's abdomen, where it draws waste products and excess water out of the blood using the peritoneal membrane as a filter. The fluid may be exchanged four or five times per day, or a machine may be used to carry out several fluid exchanges, usually overnight.

Phosphate binders

A type of medication used to reduce the absorption of phosphate by the body and usually taken with meals and snacks. They are typically used by people with CKD who cannot get rid of the phosphate that gets into their blood (i.e. the serum phosphate is typically elevated).

Phosphorus

A mineral that plays a key part in building strong bones and keeps your body in good health. High phosphorus levels in the blood may cause mineral deposits in the tissues of the kidneys, heart, blood vessels, joints and skin, bone disease and even heart disease or death.

Prevalence

The number of people in a population who have a given condition; for kidney disease usually measured at a point in time (point prevalence). For treatment, the number of new + existing cases (see also Incidence).

Proteinuria

Excessive amounts of protein being excreted in the urine. Commonly caused by kidney disease.