Multidisciplinary approach for the management of acute kidney injury

Abstract

Acute kidney injury (AKI) frequently occurs in critically ill patients with multiple organ failure in ICUs. AKI complicated with sepsis and multiple organ failure has been recognized as a syndrome related to both nephrology and critical care medicine. The establishment of a closer relationship between intensivists and nephrologists and the establishment of training programs for both fields has been suggested, with the designation of “critical care nephrology.” In Japan, critical care nephrology has developed with acute blood purification therapy in ICUs. AKI can result from different etiologies in diverse clinical contexts. Its impact on clinical outcomes is huge. Therefore, a multidisciplinary approach that integrates critical care medicine, nephrology, and blood purification must be undertaken to improve the management of AKI in clinical practice.