Acute Kidney Injury - Scientific Evidence Driving Change in Patient Management

The field of acute-care nephrology has recently seen significant changes, affecting the definition and classification of acute kidney dysfunction as well as our understanding of its epidemiology, the ability to make earlier diagnoses, the use of novel imaging modalities, and the insight into why acute kidney injury might occur under different clinical circumstances. Different experts have contributed to this issue, emphasizing the importance of the change of concept from that of acute renal failure to that of acute kidney injury. This change has led to the development of new definitions and classifications which, together with the understanding that even minor subclinical injury to the kidney may matter, emphasize the need to develop early biomarkers. Sufficiently early diagnosis, a better classification system and a clearer understanding of the pathogenesis promise to deliver novel and effective therapies for patients. Summarizing recent developments, this publication will be an indispensable help for the clinician to determine the best treatment options for his patients.