Acute Kidney Injury: Gaps and Opportunities for Knowledge and Growth

Abstract

Acute kidney injury (AKI) occurs frequently in hospitalized patients, regardless of age or prior medical history. Increasing awareness of the epidemiologic problem of AKI has directly led to increased study of global recognition, diagnostic tools, both reactive and proactive management, and analysis of long-term sequelae. Many gaps remain, however, and in this article we highlight opportunities to add significantly to the increasing bodies of evidence surrounding AKI. Practical considerations related to initiation, prescription, anticoagulation, and monitoring are discussed. In addition, the importance of AKI follow-up evaluation, particularly for those surviving the receipt of renal replacement therapy, is highlighted as a push for global equity in the realm of critical care nephrology is broached. Addressing these gaps presents an opportunity to impact patient care directly and improve patient outcomes.

Keywords: Acute kidney injury (AKI); Biomarkers; Critical care nephrology; RRT (Renal replacement therapy).