[The importance of echography in the differential diagnosis of renal insufficiency (author's transl)].

Experience with echographic investigation of the kidney and the urinary efferent system in the diagnosis of renal insufficiency is reported. Taking into account a number of criteria (size, differentiation from the surrounding tissues, position of the kidney in relation to neighboring organs and to the body surface, mobility or change of shape on respiration, on altehe evaluation of the nephroechographic findings an attempt is made to rationalize the applicatinon of further diagnostic measures. The method is recommended both for the initial diagnosis of renal insufficiency and for the supervision of patients with confirmed renal insufficiency.