Chronic hyperkalemia, diagnosis and management. Colombian consensus

Generate recommendations for the diagnosis, management, and follow-up of chronic hyperkalemia.

This consensus was made by nephrologists and cardiologists following the GRADE methodology.

Chronic hyperkalemia can be defined as a biochemical condition with or without clinical manifestations characterized by a recurrent elevation of serum potassium levels that may require pharmacological and or non-pharmacological intervention. It can be classified as mild (K⁺ 5.0 to < 5.5 mEq/L), moderate (K⁺ 5.5 to 6.0 mEq/L) or severe (K⁺ > 6.0 mEq/L). Its incidence and prevalence have yet to be determined. Risk factors: chronic kidney disease, chronic heart failure, diabetes mellitus, age ≥ 65 years, hypertension, and drugs that inhibit the renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAASi), among others. There is no consensus for the management of chronic hyperkalemia. The suggested pattern for patients is to identify and eliminate or control risk factors, provide advice on potassium intake and, for whom it is indicated, optimize RAASi therapy, administer oral potassium binders and correct metabolic acidosis.

The recommendation is to pay attention to the diagnosis, management, and follow-up of chronic hyperkalemia, especially in patients with risk factors.