Background: Sepsis is a life-threatening condition responsible for up to 20% of all global deaths. Kidneys are among the most common organs implicated, yet the pathogenesis of sepsis-induced acute kidney injury (S-AKI) is not completely understood, resulting in the treatment being nonspecific and responsive. In situations of stress, the renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) may play a role. This systematic review focuses on analyzing the impact of the RAAS on the development of S-AKI and discussing the use of RAAS antagonists as an emerging therapeutic option to minimize complications of sepsis.
Methods: Studies were identified using electronic databases (Medline via PubMed, Google Scholar) published within the past decade, comprised from 2014 to 2023. The search strategy was conducted using the following keywords: sepsis, S-AKI, RAAS, Angiotensin II, and RAAS inhibitors. Studies on human and animal subjects were included if relevant to the keywords.
Results: Our search identified 22 eligible references pertaining to the inclusion criteria. Treatment of sepsis with RAAS inhibitor medications is observed to decrease rates of S-AKI, reduce the severity of S-AKI, and offer an improved prognosis for septic patients.
Conclusion: The use of RAAS antagonists as a treatment after the onset of sepsis has promising findings, with evidence of decreased renal tissue damage and rates of S-AKI and improved survival outcomes.
Registration: INPLASY202360098.
Keywords: ACEi; ARB; RAAS; acute kidney injury; endothelial damage; inflammation; microthrombi; oxidative stress; sepsis.