Acute kidney injury (AKI), previously known as “Acute Renal Failure” is a rapid (days to weeks) decline in the kidneys’ ability to filter wastes from food and excess water. While potentially reversible, AKI requires early diagnosis and intensive treatment.

About 15% of patients entering hospital with an acute illness will have some reduction in kidney function, but AKI that is severe enough to require dialysis is quite rare. In more than 90% of cases, the kidneys usually recover to their original level of function, if the patient survives.

There are many causes of AKI. The most common are dehydration (due to vomiting and diarrhea), infections, drugs (for example certain antibiotics, pain killers) and blockage of one or both of the tubes leading from the kidneys to the bladder. Some people are more at risk of developing AKI than others, especially if they are older and have other medical conditions; for example underlying kidney disease, heart failure or diabetes. Sometimes drugs that are being taken for other reasons can affect the kidneys, leading to AKI.

When to seek expert advise

The symptoms for acute renal failure might resemble those from other diseases. To confirm its presence, you should consult your doctor or the internationally recognised panel of nephrologists from the Section of Nephrology at the Aga Khan University Hospital. Due to the intensive nature of the treatment, it is important to get the proper diagnosis early on in the treatment.

Disclaimer

The information provided on our website is for educational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional provider.