Renal and urologic emergencies in the HIV-infected patient

Antiretroviral therapy has revolutionized the care of individuals infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and has fundamentally altered the scope of the disease. Acute renal failure and chronic kidney disease from medication toxicity and comorbid noninfectious illnesses are just as likely today as end-organ injury from the virus itself. Chronic immunosuppression renders HIV-infected patients vulnerable to any of several unique urological infections not frequently seen in immunocompetent patients. A deeper understanding of renal and urological emergencies in the context of the HIV-infected patient will better prepare the emergency physician to render optimal care to this rapidly expanding and aging patient population.