[Kidney injury in COVID-19]

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Virology
• Pathophysiology

Background:

• COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, is a global pandemic affecting multiple organs.
• While primarily a respiratory illness, SARS-CoV-2 impacts organs like the kidneys.
• Kidney involvement in COVID-19 (COVID-19 nephropathy) is a significant concern.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the presumed pathophysiology of kidney disease in COVID-19 patients.
• To review the incidence and clinical manifestations of acute kidney injury (AKI) in SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• To discuss histological findings and potential long-term consequences of COVID-19 on renal health.

Main Methods:

• Review of presumed pathophysiology of COVID-19 renal disease.
• Analysis of reported incidence rates of acute kidney injury (AKI).
• Summary of histological findings from renal biopsies and clinical observations.

Main Results:

• Acute kidney injury (AKI) incidence in SARS-CoV-2 infected patients ranges from 0.5% to 22%.
• Renal replacement therapy is required for 5-9% of intensive care unit patients.
• Histological findings commonly include acute tubular necrosis and capillary congestion; endothelitis is occasionally observed.
• Glomerular inflammation evidence remains debated.

Conclusions:

• COVID-19 significantly impacts renal function, with varying degrees of acute kidney injury.
• Pathological findings suggest tubular damage and vascular congestion as primary renal manifestations.
• Long-term effects of COVID-19 on kidney health are unknown and require further investigation.