P01.004 Acute kidney injury

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

Sudden decrease in kidney function characterized by an increase in serum creatinine or decrease in urine output, or both.

Classification:

Etiology:

Clinical Features:

• Oliguria (urine output <0.5 mL/kg/h)
• Fluid overload
• Electrolyte imbalances (hyperkalemia, metabolic acidosis)
• Uremic symptoms (nausea, vomiting, lethargy)
• Edema
• Hypertension

Investigations:

Management:

Complications:

• Fluid overload leading to pulmonary edema
• Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hyperkalemia, metabolic acidosis)
• Uremic encephalopathy
• Cardiovascular complications (e.g., hypertension, arrhythmias)

Prognosis:

• Depends on the cause and severity of AKI
• Prompt recognition and management improve outcomes
• May progress to chronic kidney disease if not managed appropriately

Key Points to Remember:

• AKI is characterized by a sudden decrease in kidney function.
• It is classified into three stages based on serum creatinine and urine output criteria.
• Prerenal, intrarenal, and postrenal causes can lead to AKI.
• Clinical features include oliguria, fluid overload, and electrolyte imbalances.
• Management involves treating the underlying cause, supportive measures, and, if necessary, renal replacement therapy.
• Complications include fluid overload, electrolyte imbalances, and cardiovascular complications.
• The prognosis depends on prompt recognition and management.