Acute Kidney Injury and Subsequent Cardiovascular Disease: Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, and Treatment

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Cardiology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major concern for patients with kidney disease, including those experiencing acute kidney injury (AKI).
• AKI triggers short-term physiological changes impacting the cardiovascular system, such as fluid overload and hormonal activation.
• Long-term risks associated with AKI include hypertension, stroke, and major adverse cardiovascular events, potentially exacerbated by its effect on chronic kidney disease progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on the cardiovascular consequences of AKI.
• To explore the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment of cardiovascular complications post-AKI.
• To highlight the need for advanced preventive and therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on AKI and cardiovascular outcomes.
• Analysis of physiological and metabolic pathways linking AKI to CVD.
• Examination of current management strategies and future research directions.

Main Results:

• AKI leads to fluid/sodium overload, RAAS/SNS activation, inflammation, and metabolic disturbances.
• AKI is associated with increased long-term risks of hypertension, thromboembolism, stroke, and major adverse cardiovascular events.
• Current management focuses on hemodynamic stability, fluid balance, and specific pharmacotherapies.

Conclusions:

• AKI presents significant short- and long-term cardiovascular risks.
• Integrated management and further research are essential for mitigating cardiovascular complications in AKI patients.
• Understanding the pathophysiology is key to developing novel preventive and treatment approaches.