RIFLE is alive: long live RIFLE

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• Acute kidney injury (AKI) diagnosis and classification were systematically addressed with the RIFLE criteria.
• The RIFLE (Risk, Injury, Failure, Loss of function, End-stage kidney disease) system describes progressive renal damage severity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the development and application of the RIFLE classification for AKI.
• To highlight the RIFLE system's transition from epidemiological research to bedside clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of studies applying, validating, criticizing, and modifying the RIFLE criteria.
• Analysis of RIFLE's adoption in clinical settings.

Main Results:

• The RIFLE classification is a highly appreciated and utilized medical system worldwide.
• The RIFLE system is now acceptable for bedside application.

Conclusions:

• The RIFLE classification has significantly advanced AKI diagnosis and management.
• Routine renal function monitoring in critically ill patients can be achieved using RIFLE criteria (urine output and creatinine).