Common arboviruses and the kidney: a review

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Nephrology
• Public Health

Background:

• Arboviruses, including dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and yellow fever, are endemic globally and cause significant public health issues, with millions of annual dengue cases reported in Brazil.
• These viral infections can impact the kidneys via direct viral action, systemic inflammation, hemorrhagic complications, and drug toxicity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the epidemiological and clinical aspects of major arboviruses in endemic regions, focusing on their effects on renal function.
• To elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms of arbovirus-induced kidney injury.
• To outline current treatment recommendations and supportive kidney care for arboviral diseases, including in kidney transplant patients.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of arboviral diseases and their renal manifestations.
• Analysis of epidemiological data, clinical presentations, and laboratory findings related to arbovirus infections.
• Synthesis of information on pathophysiological mechanisms, treatment protocols, and kidney support strategies.

Main Results:

• Arboviruses present diverse clinical manifestations and laboratory changes, frequently involving alterations in renal function.
• Kidney injury in arbovirus infections can result from direct viral effects, immune-mediated damage, or complications like rhabdomyolysis and shock.
• Kidney transplant recipients may experience unique challenges and outcomes when infected with arboviruses.

Conclusions:

• Arboviruses represent a substantial threat to kidney health, necessitating a thorough understanding of their renal impact.
• Effective management requires prompt diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and tailored supportive care, especially for vulnerable populations like kidney transplant recipients.
• Further research into arbovirus-specific nephrotoxicity and optimal renal support strategies is crucial for improving patient outcomes.