Acute kidney injury in children – not just for the nephrologist
Loading...
Date
Authors
Choopa, M.S.
Van Biljon, Gertruida
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Medpharm Publications
Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a condition that is characterised by an abrupt reduction in kidney function, and is not limited to acute
renal failure. However, it is potentially treatable. Failure to do so may result in death or progression to chronic kidney disease
(CKD). AKI requires urgent management in order to ensure a better clinical outcome. Traditionally, AKI is classified according
to aetiology, i.e. pre-renal, intrinsic renal and post-renal AKI. Clinical features depend on the age of the patient, the cause and
related complications. Symptoms and signs may be non-specific, e.g. poor feeding and vomiting, or more specific, e.g. oedema,
macroscopic haematuria and oliguria. The staging of AKI is based on the estimated glomerular filtration rate and urine output.
AKI from any cause increases the risk of CKD developing, and vice versa. There are absolute indications for renal replacement
therapy, e.g. anuria, whereas other patients can be managed successfully conservatively.
Description
Keywords
Children, Fluid management, pRIFLE, Renal replacement therapy, Acute kidney injury (AKI), Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
Sustainable Development Goals
Citation
Choopa, MS & Van Biljon, G 2015, 'Acute kidney injury in children – not just for the nephrologist', South African Family Practice, vol. 57, no. 6, pp. 30-33.