Main Entry: neph·ro·scle·ro·sis

Pronunciation: \ˌnef-rō-sklə-ˈrō-səs\

Function: noun

Inflected Form(s): plural neph·ro·scle·ro·ses \-ˌsēz\

: hardening of the kidney ; specifically : a condition that is characterized by sclerosis of the renal arterioles with reduced blood flow and contraction of the kidney, that is associated usually with hypertension, and that terminates in renal failure and uremia—compare nephritis

—neph·ro·scle·rot·ic \-ˈrät-ik\ adjective