[The hepatorenal syndrome]

Abstract

The hepatorenal syndrome is characterized by a combination of liver cirrhosis, ascites and renal impairment. It is divided into two typs, whereby typ I is defined as acute with a doubling of creatinine within 2 weeks and type II as a more modest decline of kidney function. The only definite therapy so far is transplantation. However, based on pathophysiological considerations a number of strategies have been applied. Aldosteronantagonists are the backbone of therapy even in cases of poor diuresis. Additional benefit is derived from a combination of vasopressors and albumine.