Which of the following is a treatment option for end-stage renal disease (ESRD)?

Hemodialysis is a primary treatment option for individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). In ESRD, the kidneys have lost their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood effectively. Hemodialysis works by artificially removing these wastes through a machine that filters the blood outside the body. The process involves inserting a needle into a person's bloodstream, typically via an access point in the arm, and passing the blood through a dialyzer (the artificial kidney) before returning it to the body.

This treatment is crucial for patients with ESRD, as it helps to manage symptoms, maintains a balance of electrolytes, and removes toxic substances from the bloodstream. Unlike gene therapy, which is still largely experimental in terms of renal disease treatment, hemodialysis is a well-established and accessible procedure for managing ESRD.

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are typically used to treat cancer rather than kidney failure. In the context of ESRD, these options do not address the specific renal issues present and are not indicated for managing kidney disease. Thus, hemodialysis remains the appropriate choice for treating patients with end-stage renal disease.