A PROPOSED GLOSSARY FOR DIALYSIS KINETICS

Quantification of the dialysis dose and assessment of nutritional stat us and response to nutritional therapy have become standard parts of t he management of the chronic dialysis patient, Although advances in th ese areas have led to a more rational basis for therapy, certain misco nceptions and points of confusion appear to have occurred. Recognizing the importance of a standard nomenclature to the development of conce pts and the communication of research findings, we have attempted to c ompile a list of terms that are commonly used in the field of dialysis , New terms have been proposed for current ones that do not seem adequ ate, In addition, we have discussed potential methodologies for obtain ing more accurate data for dialysis kinetics and for precise monitorin g of nutritional intake and status, It is hoped that this glossary wil l stimulate discussion that will lead to refinements in terminology an d concepts that will, in turn, improve research and practice in nephro logy, It is anticipated that many of these definitions and recommendat ions will be modified or superseded as the management of patients with renal failure continues to advance. (C) 1995 by the National Kidney F oundation, Inc.