Acute Kidney Injury In Turkey: Epidemiological Characteristics, Etiology, Clinical Course And Prognosis

Abstract Background: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the etiology, comorbidities and outcome of acute kidney injury (AKI) in our country, and if there is, to demonstrate any potential differences in different geographical parts of the country. Methods: This prospective observational study was carried on by Acute Kidney Injury Working Group of Turkish Society of Nephrology. Demographical and clinical data of AKI patients at the time of diagnosis, at the 1st week and 1st, 3rd and 6th months were evaluated to determine patient and renal survival, and factors associated with prognosis. Results: 776 patients were included (54.7% male, median age: 67 years). Prerenal causes were more frequent, namely dehydration, heart failure and sepsis. 58.9% of patients had at least one renal etiology, most frequently nephrotoxic agent exposure. Etiologic factors were mostly similar through the country. 33.6% of patients needed renal replacement therapy. At the 6th month of diagnosis, 29.5% of patients had complete, 34.1% had partial recovery, end stage kidney disease ensued in 9.5% and 24.1% died. Death rate was higher in patients from Eastern Anatolian region, those in intensive care unit, patients with prerenal, renal and postrenal etiologies together, stage-3 AKI, sepsis, cirrhosis, heart failure, malignancy, need for renal replacement therapy and those without chronic kidney disease. Conclusion: Physicians dealing with AKI should be alert against dehydration, heart failure and sepsis, nephrotoxic agent exposure while taking care of these patients. Being aware of the characteristics of AKI patients and outcomes in their country would help to prevent AKI and treating better.