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What Causes Knots On Arms While Undergoing Kidney Dialysis?
I have been on Dialysis since June, 2011. (female, 55 years old, 5'11" 185 lbs) Last test showed kidneys functioning at 4%. I have noticed most of the long time patients have huge, round protrusions (knots) about the size of a ping-pong ball on their arms. I find that very disturbing. I developed a swollen, hard, area two weeks ago that is still tender , after an infiltration. What causes the "knots" I have seen and is there any way to prevent them.
posted on
Fri, 14 Mar 2014
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Sat, 6 Aug 2016
Answered on
Mon, 8 Aug 2016
Last reviewed on
Hello and welcome to HCM.
As an Urologist and transplant surgeon,i can understand your anxiety.
Your kidney function at 4%,is like a non-functioning kidney.
Dialysis or a kidney transplant are the only options available.
A transplant is the best option. All people on weekly dialysis,will have a
fistula on their forearms,for access. That should be the knots you see.
Once the A-V fistula has matured,the veins get swollen up and prominent.
If they're hard or tender,you must show it your nephrologist.Thrombophlebitis is a possibility.You'll need treatment for it.
If you've any doubts,send all reports to me,as a direct question.
Dr.Matthew J. Mangat.
As an Urologist and transplant surgeon,i can understand your anxiety.
Your kidney function at 4%,is like a non-functioning kidney.
Dialysis or a kidney transplant are the only options available.
A transplant is the best option. All people on weekly dialysis,will have a
fistula on their forearms,for access. That should be the knots you see.
Once the A-V fistula has matured,the veins get swollen up and prominent.
If they're hard or tender,you must show it your nephrologist.Thrombophlebitis is a possibility.You'll need treatment for it.
If you've any doubts,send all reports to me,as a direct question.
Dr.Matthew J. Mangat.
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