DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Nephrologic Disease

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

HIGH SEVERITY

A sudden episode of kidney failure or kidney damage that happens within a few hours or days. Causes waste products to build up in the blood and makes it hard for kidneys to maintain the right balance of fluids. Can be prerenal, intrinsic, or postrenal.

Global Affected

13.0M

Countries

15

Symptoms

Decreased urine output
Swelling in legs, ankles, or feet
Fatigue
Nausea
Chest pain or pressure
Shortness of breath
Confusion
Seizures or coma (severe cases)
Fluid retention

Treatment Options

Fluid resuscitation (if hypovolemic)
Medication adjustments
Diuretics
Treatment of underlying cause
Renal replacement therapy (dialysis)
Nutritional support
Avoidance of nephrotoxic agents

Risk Factors

1Hospitalization in ICU
2Advanced age
3Diabetes
4Hypertension
5Heart failure
6Liver disease
7Sepsis
8Major surgery
9Nephrotoxic medications
10Severe burns
11Dehydration

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Serum creatinine levels
  • 2Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
  • 3Urine output measurement
  • 4Urine tests
  • 5Imaging (ultrasound)
  • 6Kidney biopsy (rarely)
  • 7RIFLE or KDIGO criteria assessment

Prognosis

Most cases (90%+) resolve completely with supportive care and treatment of underlying cause. ICU-associated AKI has higher mortality (40-60%) especially with multi-organ failure. Dialysis-requiring AKI has 50-70% hospital mortality. 10-20% of survivors progress to chronic kidney disease. RRT (renal replacement therapy) indications: refractory fluid overload, hyperkalemia, severe acidosis, uremic symptoms. Prevention strategies in high-risk settings (contrast exposure, surgery) are important.

Prevention

  • Maintain adequate hydration
  • Avoid nephrotoxic drugs when possible
  • Monitor kidney function in hospitalized patients
  • Proper management of chronic conditions
  • Early recognition of risk factors
  • Careful dose adjustment of medications

Research Status

Focus on early biomarkers (NGAL, cystatin C) for earlier detection. Renal replacement therapy timing remains debated. Preventive strategies in high-risk surgical and ICU patients. Research into kidney regeneration and stem cell therapies.

Affected Countries

AustraliaBrazilCanadaChinaGermanySpainFranceUnited KingdomIsraelIndiaItalyJapanMexicoRussiaUnited States

Sources

  • https://www.kidney.org
  • https://www.niddk.nih.gov
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.