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Review
. 2024 Oct 29;11(11):1308.
doi: 10.3390/children11111308.

Acute Kidney Injury in Children: Classification, Recognition and Treatment Principles

Matjaž Kopač  1
Affiliations
Review

Acute Kidney Injury in Children: Classification, Recognition and Treatment Principles

Matjaž Kopač. Children (Basel). .

Abstract

Acute kidney injury (AKI) in children is a critical medical condition characterized by a sudden decline in kidney function. This article provides a comprehensive overview of AKI in pediatric populations, exploring its pathophysiology, the role of various drugs and the long-term implications for kidney health. Key topics include oliguria, anuria, urine output, hypervolemia and the interactions among them, as well as role of diuretic nephrotoxicity and the glomerular filtration rate. Concepts of electrolytes, acid-base balance and renal perfusion assessment are presented. Basic principles of intensive care unit (ICU) management, renal replacement therapy and the association with multiorgan failure are described. Additionally, the article discusses the potential long-term outcomes of AKI, including the risk of chronic kidney disease, hypertension and proteinuria.

Keywords: acid–base balance; acute kidney injury; children; diuretics; electrolytes; hypervolemia; kidney perfusion; urine output.

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Conflict of interest statement

The author declares no conflicts of interest.

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