[Patterns of renal and haemodynamic functions in cadaver kidney donors under dopamine (author's transl)]

Haemodynamics and renal function have been examined before and during i.v. infusion of dopamine (175 microgram/min) in 11 patients admitted as potential kidney donors to an intensive care unit. The findings of the control period revealed an extreme decrease of renal tubular function which points to a cessation of central regulation. The cardiovascular system showed a slight increase of blood pressure and heart rate during dopamine. Urine flow and renal blood flow increased significantly as well as the excretion of sodium while inulin-clearance showed only a minimal rise. The functional renal impairment under conditions of brain death as well as the influence of dopamine on circulation and renal function are discussed. The results indicate that dopamine may exert a favourable effect in preparation of kidney donors for the withdrawal of the organs.