Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) in Children

Overview

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a sudden decrease in kidney function that occurs within hours or days. It can lead to the accumulation of waste products in the blood and may affect the body’s fluid and electrolyte balance. AKI is often reversible with timely treatment and can arise from various causes, including dehydration, infections, or certain medications.

Symptoms

Common signs of acute kidney injury in children include:

  • Decreased urine output or changes in urine color
  • Swelling in the legs, ankles, or face (edema)
  • Fatigue or lethargy
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Confusion or decreased alertness
  • High blood pressure

Causes

Acute kidney injury in children can be triggered by several factors, including:

  • Pre-renal causes: Dehydration, low blood volume from bleeding, or shock that reduces blood flow to the kidneys.
  • Intrinsic renal causes: Damage to the kidney tissue due to infections, inflammation, or toxins (such as certain medications or poisons).
  • Post-renal causes: Obstruction in the urinary tract, such as kidney stones or tumors, that prevents urine from leaving the kidneys.

Diagnosis

To diagnose AKI, our pediatric nephrologists will conduct a thorough evaluation, including:

  • A detailed medical history and physical examination
  • Blood tests to assess kidney function (such as serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen)
  • Urinalysis to detect abnormalities in the urine
  • Imaging studies, such as ultrasounds, to check for obstructions in the urinary tract

Treatment Options

Management of acute kidney injury focuses on addressing the underlying cause and supporting kidney function. Our hospital offers:

  • Intravenous fluids to restore hydration and improve blood flow to the kidneys
  • Medications to manage blood pressure and other symptoms
  • Dialysis in severe cases to remove waste products and excess fluids
  • Close monitoring of kidney function and overall health

Patient Success Stories

At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we are committed to providing the best possible care for children with Acute Kidney Injury (AKI). Here’s why families trust us:

“When our son developed acute kidney injury, we were scared and unsure of what to expect. The team at Gertrude's Children's Hospital was phenomenal—they provided timely care and kept us informed every step of the way. Our son recovered, and we're so thankful for their expertise.”

Jessicaparent of a child with acute kidney injury

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) in Children

AKI is often reversible with appropriate treatment, but in some cases, it can lead to chronic kidney problems if not managed effectively.

Ensuring your child stays hydrated, avoiding medications that can harm the kidneys, and managing underlying health conditions can help reduce the risk of AKI.

Regular follow-ups with the healthcare team are essential to monitor kidney function and ensure long-term health.

Contact Us

If your child is experiencing symptoms of acute kidney injury or has been diagnosed with this condition, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with our pediatric nephrology team. Our experts are dedicated to providing the best possible care for your child.

Contact us today to learn more about our Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) in Children treatment options.

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