Related Experiment Videos
Hypothermia and acute renal failure in the elderly
Z Duraković1, M Misigoj-Duraković, N Corović
1Department of Internal Medicine, Rebro University Hospital, Medical Faculty University of Zagreb, Croatia.
Collegium Antropologicum
|March 31, 1999
Summary
Severe hypothermia in elderly patients is often fatal, frequently leading to kidney injury and coma. This study found a significant negative correlation between low body temperature and elevated creatinine levels, highlighting the critical condition of these patients.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Nephrology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Hypothermia poses a significant risk to the elderly, particularly during winter months.
- Elderly patients experiencing hypothermia often present with severe clinical manifestations, including altered consciousness and cardiovascular instability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between core body temperature and renal function in elderly patients with hypothermia.
- To assess the incidence of acute kidney injury and mortality in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 14 elderly patients treated for hypothermia between 1993-1998.
- Measurement of rectal temperature, serum creatinine levels, and assessment of renal failure parameters.
- Correlation analysis between temperature and creatinine, and evaluation of renal function markers.
Main Results:
- A negative correlation (r = -0.572) was observed between rectal temperature and serum creatinine levels.
- Eight out of 14 patients exhibited elevated serum creatinine.
- Renal failure parameters in two patients indicated either functional oliguria or acute renal failure.
- Twelve patients (85.7%) died within 1-216 hours of admission.
Conclusions:
- Severe hypothermia in the elderly is associated with significant renal impairment and a high mortality rate.
- Prompt recognition and management of hypothermia and associated complications are crucial for this vulnerable population.