Andrea K. Viecelli is a nephrologist based in Brisbane, QLD, Australia. Nephrology is the branch of medicine that looks after the kidneys, and the knock-on effects when kidneys aren’t working the way they should.
In clinic, Andrea helps people dealing with long-term and complex kidney conditions. This can include chronic kidney disease (CKD), end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and ongoing issues linked with high blood pressure and high potassium levels. At times, kidney problems can also affect the heart and breathing, so care often needs to fit around the bigger picture.
Andrea also sees patients with polycystic kidney disease. That includes autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) and other forms of polycystic kidney disease. These conditions can be slow to change over time, but they still need regular kidney checks and careful planning for what comes next.
Another part of the work is managing kidney inflammation. Glomerulonephritis is one example, where the kidney filters become inflamed and it can cause swelling, blood in urine, and changes in kidney function. When symptoms shift, treatment choices need to be reviewed without delay.
For some people, the focus is on treatment that supports day-to-day life while preparing for further care. Andrea works with patients who need or have had kidney transplants, including follow-up care after a transplant. She also looks after people managing peritonitis, including secondary peritonitis, where infection can happen after certain types of dialysis.
Kidney health can connect to other body systems too. Andrea may be involved when people have serious medical events such as cardiac arrest or heart attack, where kidney function can be affected. She also works with people who have had infections like pneumonia, and viral illnesses including COVID-19 and SARS. In some cases, breathing and oxygen problems can be part of the story, such as methemoglobinemia.
There are also rarer conditions that can affect kidney blood vessels and circulation. For example, arteriovenous malformation (AVM) can bring its own set of concerns, and it helps to have kidney-focused care alongside other specialists.
Andrea’s role is to provide steady, practical medical care for kidney disease, from diagnosis through to ongoing management. She keeps treatment plans grounded in what’s going on for each person, and focuses on making sure kidney care stays consistent and safe.
