Gastrointestinal complications of renal failure.

ESRD has well-documented effects on the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, and pancreas. Unless the supply of donor kidneys increases dramatically, these complications of ESRD will continue to be an important clinical issue for gastroenterologists given the large percentage of patients with symptoms. Further study of uremic retention products and abnormal gastrointestinal hormone profiles on the gastrointestinal tract should help provide additional insights into this complex group of patients.