Experimental Uremia

Abstract

A model is described for the induction in the rat of varying degrees of stable uremia using controlled resection of renal tissue. Three degrees of uremia have been attained: mild, blood urea 40-80 mg/100 ml (6.68-13.36 mmol/l); moderate, blood urea 100-200 mg/100 ml (16.7-33.4 mmol/l), and severe, blood urea greater than 200 mg/100 ml (> 33.4 mmol/l). Mild uremia was produced by unilateral nephrectomy; moderate uremia required the resection of 80 .+-. 2% of the total renal mass, and severe uremia was produced by 88 .+-. 2% nephrectomy. A sham-operative procedure provided an appropriate control for the model. Evaluation of the model was carried out using analyses of renal function (GFR [glomerular filtration rate], concentrating capacity), blood biochemistry, hematological parameters and histological examination. The ability to induce a standardized, stable uremia at predetermined levels, uncomplicated by the administration of nephrotoxic material, represents an advance on existing methods for producing experimental renal failure.