AWAKEN-Ing a New Frontier in Neonatal Nephrology

Area of Science:

• Neonatology
• Nephrology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Previous studies on neonatal acute kidney injury (AKI) were limited, often retrospective and single-center.
• These studies suggested AKI was common and associated with increased mortality in neonates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the prevalence, risk factors, and impact of neonatal AKI using a large, multi-center cohort.
• To investigate the association between AKI and clinical outcomes like mortality and hospitalization duration.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of neonates admitted to 24 NICUs between January 1 and March 31, 2014.
• Analysis of the Assessment of Worldwide Acute Kidney Epidemiology in Neonates (AWAKEN) cohort.
• Examination of AKI prevalence across different gestational age cohorts.

Main Results:

• Neonatal AKI is independently associated with increased odds of death.
• Patients with AKI experienced significantly prolonged hospitalization times.
• The study provided data on risk factors, complications, and fluid overload in neonatal AKI.

Conclusions:

• Neonatal AKI is a significant risk factor for adverse clinical outcomes, including mortality and extended hospital stays.
• The AWAKEN study expanded understanding of neonatal AKI, informing potential interventions.
• The project facilitated collaboration and established the Neonatal Kidney Collaborative for future research and advocacy.