Final answer:
CKD stands for Chronic Kidney Disease and it represents a gradual decline in kidney function over time. CKD is classified into different stages based on the level of reduction in glomerular filtration rate (GFR). It is important to differentiate CKD from acute renal failure (ARF) as the management and prognosis differ for these two conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
CKD stands for Chronic Kidney Disease. In CKD patients, there is a gradual decline in kidney function over time. CKD is classified into stages, with Stage 3a representing a moderate reduction in glomerular filtration rate (GFR), Stage 4 representing a severe reduction, and Stage 5 indicating kidney failure. CKD is commonly caused by conditions like diabetic nephropathy, hypertension, and glomerulonephritis. It is important to differentiate CKD from acute renal failure (ARF), as ARF may be reversible, while CKD is a chronic condition.