Acute kidney disease
Acute kidney disease (AKD), commonly referred to as acute kidney injury (AKI), is a sudden loss of kidney function that occurs within hours or days. It is characterized by a rapid decline in glomerular filtration rate (GFR), resulting in the accumulation of waste products in the blood and disturbances in fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base balance.
Causes: AKI can be classified into three main categories based on the underlying cause:
Pre-Renal Causes: These involve reduced blood flow to the kidneys, often due to dehydration, heart failure, or sepsis. Common causes include:
- Hypovolemia (e.g., from blood loss or dehydration)
- Decreased cardiac output
- Renal artery stenosis
Intrinsic Renal Causes: These result from damage to the kidney tissue itself. Causes include:
- Acute tubular necrosis (ATN), often due to ischemia or nephrotoxins
- Glomerulonephritis
- Acute interstitial nephritis
Symptoms: The clinical presentation of AKI can vary widely but may include:
- Decreased urine output (oliguria or anuria)
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, or around the eyes
- Fatigue and weakness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Confusion
- High blood pressure
