Kidney Commute

Pitstop: Global Guidelines: U.S. Insights from KDOQI - Optimizing Management of IgAN and IgAV

IgA nephropathy and IgA vasculitis remain complex and evolving areas in nephrology care. In this episode, experts discuss key insights from the KDIGO guidelines and KDOQI commentary published in AJKD, focusing on updated approaches to risk stratification, disease progression, and treatment decision making. The conversation highlights the role of supportive care, immunosuppressive therapy considerations, and emerging therapeutic options, while addressing variability in clinical practice and patient management challenges. This episode provides practical, evidence based perspectives to help clinicians navigate the nuances of IgAN and IgAV care and apply guideline recommendations in real world settings. Please view the AJKD article here [https://www.ajkd.org/article/S0272-6386(26)00842-5/pdf].

Pitstop: Global Guidelines: U.S. Insights from KDOQI - Improving Anemia Management in CKD

Anemia in chronic kidney disease remains common, complex, and rapidly evolving. In this episode, experts discuss key updates from the 2026 KDIGO Clinical Practice Guidelines and AJKD commentary, including a stronger focus on identifying and treating iron deficiency and refining treatment strategies. The conversation explores the clinical impact of anemia on cardiovascular risk and quality of life, reviews evidence supporting proactive IV iron use, and examines emerging therapies such as HIF stabilizers. The panel also addresses real world challenges in managing anemia, particularly in non dialysis CKD populations, where access, adherence, and care coordination play a critical role. This episode provides practical insights to support individualized, evidence based anemia care. Please click here [https://www.ajkd.org/article/S0272-6386(26)00841-3/fulltext] to access the commentary.

Pitstop: Congress Cares about Kidneys: Unpacking the recent congressional hearing about kidney health

Kidney care rarely takes center stage in Congress, but a recent hearing is bringing renewed attention to prevention, innovation, and patient access. In this episode, host Raphy Rosen is joined by Dr. Suzanne Watnick, who testified as a witness at the March 18 Ways and Means Health Subcommittee hearing, along with Dr. Dan Weiner. Together, they unpack key themes across CKD, dialysis, and transplantation, and explore what emerging legislative efforts could mean for patients and providers. Tune in for an inside look at how kidney care is shaping national health policy.

Pitstop: Global Guidelines: U.S. Insights from KDOQI: Optimizing ADPKD Evaluation and Treatment

In this episode of Kidney Commute: Pitstop, we explore key insights from the KDIGO Commentary on the 2025 KDOQI Clinical Practice Guideline for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). Host Anna Gaddy is joined by Dr. Neera Dahl and Dr. Terry Watnick to discuss how the updated recommendations differ from prior guidance and what they mean for real world practice in the United States. The conversation highlights advances in genetic testing, practical considerations for implementing tolvaptan therapy, and emerging therapies on the horizon. Tune in for actionable takeaways to support clinical decision making and improve care for patients with ADPKD.   Access the commentary here: https://www.ajkd.org/article/S0272-6386(26)00003-X/fulltext [https://www.ajkd.org/article/S0272-6386(26)00003-X/fulltext]

Pitstop: NephMadness 2026: Cerebronephrology Region: Exploring the Intersection Between Kidney Disease and Brain Health

Hosted by Dr. Sam Kant, this Kidney Commute: Pit Stop episode explores the Cerebronephrology region of NephMadness 2026 and the emerging concept of the brain–kidney axis. Drs. David Drew and Colton Jensen examine how chronic kidney disease and ESKD with dialysis contribute to cognitive impairment—an underrecognized complication affecting a large proportion of patients. From early microvascular injury, albuminuria, and hypertension in CKD to cerebral hypoperfusion, ischemia, and structural brain changes during dialysis, this discussion highlights the bidirectional relationship between kidney and brain health. Join us as we unpack where brain injury begins and what this means for earlier recognition and improved patient care. For more information on the Cerebronephrology Region of NephMadness please go to: https://ajkdblog.org/2026/03/01/nephmadness-2026-cerebronephrology-region/ [https://ajkdblog.org/2026/03/01/nephmadness-2026-cerebronephrology-region/]