Role of point-of-care ultrasonography in kidney disease management: A single solution for multiple challenges

In this editorial, we comment on the article by Diniz et al published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Nephrology. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is rapidly becoming a transformative tool in nephrology and medicine in general, which can be used in both inpatient and outpatient settings. With approximately 850 million people living with chronic kidney disease worldwide, POCUS offers nephrologists a real-time, non-invasive method to avoid diagnostic delays and accelerate complex treatment pathways. Its clinical applications include the assessment of hemodynamics, volume status, vascular access guidance, and dialysis-related complications. By improving clinical decision-making at the bedside and thereby reducing unnecessary testing and healthcare inefficiencies, POCUS can transform and implement nephrology practice. The inclusion of a certifiable, standardized POCUS curriculum in undergraduate medical education is a worthy and feasible goal. Early exposure to ultrasound-based diagnostic tools would greatly enhance nephrology education and equip future physicians with important skills that could transform clinical practice.