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Infections and Acute Kidney Injury: A Global Perspective
Anthony Batte1, Lubaba Shahrin2, Rolando Claure-Del Granado3
1Child Health and Development Centre, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda; Global Health Uganda, Kampala, Uganda.
Abstract:
Globally, there are an estimated 13.3 million cases of acute kidney injury (AKI) annually. Although infections are a common cause of AKI globally, most infection-associated AKI occurs in low- and lower-middle-income countries. There are marked differences in the etiology of infection-associated AKI across age groups, populations at risk, and geographic location. This article provides a global overview of different infections that are associated commonly with AKI, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), human immunodeficiency virus, malaria, dengue, leptospirosis, tick-borne illnesses, and viral hemorrhagic fevers. Further discussion focuses on infectious conditions associated with AKI including sepsis, diarrheal diseases and pregnancy, peripartum and neonatal AKI. This article also discusses the future of infection-associated AKI in the framework of climate change. It explores how increased investment in achieving the sustainable development goals may contribute to the International Society of Nephrology's 0 by 25 objective to curtail avoidable AKI-related fatalities by 2025.
Insights
Acute kidney injury (AKI) affects 13.3 million globally each year, often linked to infections, particularly in lower-income nations. Understanding diverse causes and climate change impacts is crucial for prevention efforts.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Infectious Diseases
- Global Health
Background:
- Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a significant global health challenge, with 13.3 million new cases annually.
- Infections are a primary driver of AKI, disproportionately affecting low- and lower-middle-income countries.
- Etiology of infection-associated AKI varies by age, risk groups, and geographic location.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive global overview of infections commonly linked to AKI.
- To discuss specific infectious agents and conditions associated with AKI.
- To explore the future of infection-associated AKI in the context of climate change and Sustainable Development Goals.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of global data on AKI and infectious diseases.
- Analysis of etiological differences in infection-associated AKI across diverse populations and regions.
- Discussion of future trends and potential interventions for AKI prevention.
Main Results:
- Identified key infections associated with AKI: SARS-CoV-2, HIV, malaria, dengue, leptospirosis, tick-borne illnesses, and viral hemorrhagic fevers.
- Highlighted AKI in sepsis, diarrheal diseases, and pregnancy, peripartum, and neonatal contexts.
- Emphasized the impact of climate change on the future burden of infection-associated AKI.
Conclusions:
- Infection-associated AKI is a complex global issue with diverse causes and significant disparities.
- Addressing climate change and investing in Sustainable Development Goals are vital for reducing AKI fatalities.
- International collaboration and targeted interventions are necessary to achieve the goal of zero avoidable AKI-related deaths.
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