Incidence and Epidemiology of Kidney Infarctions in Germany-A Cohort Study

The aim of this study was to quantify and analyze the incidence and epidemiology of kidney infarctions between 2012 and 2022 in Germany.

We analyzed and extracted data from the national database of federal health reporting. Incidence rates were calculated and stratified by gender and age. Statistical analysis involved linear regression to assess correlations between incidence, age, and reporting year, with significance determined using F-tests and Student's t-tests.

From 2012 to 2022, 7983 cases of kidney infarction (4769 male, 3214 female) were identified. The mean incidence was 8.81 per million per year, higher in males (10.7) than females (6.99). Incidence peaked among individuals aged 50-59 years. A significant decrease in incidence over the study period was observed, particularly among males (-2.49 per million per year) compared to females (-0.87 per million per year). Linear regression showed a significant correlation between incidence and age (F(1,6) = 131, p < 0.001) and a significant overall incidence decrease over time (F(1,9) = 40.5, p < 0.001).

This study provides the first nationwide epidemiological data on kidney infarction in a Western country. The downward trend, especially among males, may be due to the improved management of risk factors like atherosclerosis and atrial fibrillation, e.g., through an increase in the prescription of direct anticoagulatory agents. Despite the decrease, kidney infarction remain a significant cause of acute kidney injury. Further research is needed to understand these trends and improve preventive strategies.