SONOGRAPHIC ASSOCIATION OF RENAL PARENCHYMAL DISEASE GRADING WITH AGE AND KIDNEY DIMENSIONS: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

BACKGROUND: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) presents a notable worldwide health concern. This study focuses on the sonographic assessment of renal parenchymal disorders using gray-scale ultrasonography, aiming to categorize illnesses based on echogenicity, renal size, and cortical thickness. OBJECTIVE: This study focuses on the sonographic assessment of renal parenchymal disorders using gray-scale ultrasonography, aiming to categorize illnesses based on echogenicity, renal size, and cortical thickness to enhance clarity. METHODOLOGY: During the period from July to December 2023, a cross-sectional study took place at the Radiology Department of the Institute of Kidney Diseases in Peshawar. Data from 293 patients were analyzed, applying descriptive statistics, cross-tabulations, and correlational analyses to explore relationships between age, kidney dimensions, and CKD grading. RESULTS: The study revealed a mean age of 46.56 years, with the highest CKD frequency in the age group of 41 to 60 years. Echogenicity grading demonstrated 12.97% mild, 25.26% moderate, 60.07% moderately severe, and 1.71% severe CKD cases. Significant correlations were observed between age and kidney dimensions, emphasizing the need for proactive screening. CONCLUSION: Ultrasound proved effective in detecting renal abnormalities, highlighting increased echogenicity, reduced cortical parenchymal thickness, and diminished renal size, especially prevalent in elderly patients. The study underscores the urgency for enhanced healthcare awareness, particularly in resource-limited rural areas, advocating for proactive screening and early intervention strategies to address renal health challenges. KEYWORDS: CKD, Echogenicity, Grading, Gray Scale, Renal Parenchymal Disease, Ultrasound