Chronic Kidney Disease – Mineral Bone Disorder

The definition, evaluation, and classification of the mineral abnormalities and bone disease in chronic kidney disease (CKD) should encompass all three clinical components: • Abnormalities in serum biochemistries • Vascular calcification • Bone abnormalities This principle was discussed at a Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes consensus conference, resulting in a recognition of the shortcomings of the current classification and a recommendation for the development of new terminology. The recommendation was that the term “renal osteodystrophy” be used exclusively to define the bone pathology associated with CKD. The many clinical, biochemical, and imaging abnormalities that have heretofore been identified as correlates of renal osteodystrophy should be defined more broadly as a clinical entity or syndrome called “chronic kidney disease – mineral and bone disorder.” The hope is that this new terminology will enhance communication and facilitate research worldwide.