The epidemiology of neonatal acute kidney injury (AKI) is not well established, partly due to lack of a consensus definition. Preterm neonates are likely especially vulnerable to AKI. We performed a retrospective review to assess the incidence of and risk factors for AKI in very low-birth-weight (VLBW), premature infants admitted to a level 4 NICU (2006?2007). AKI was classified using a standardized definition based on changes in serum creatinine (SCr). AKI incidence varied inversely with gestational age (GA): 65% (22?25 weeks), 25% (26?28 weeks), 9% (29?32 weeks) as did severity (p?0.001). Stage 1 AKI was most common in each cohort. Stages 2 and 3 AKI comprised approximately 60% of AKI in the 22- to 25-week cohort but 20% or less in the older cohorts. By univariate analysis, factors associated with AKI included younger GA, lower BW, lower Apgar scores, hypotension, more frequent treatment with nephrotoxic antimicrobials, longer-duration mechanical ventilation, and higher incidence of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) requiring treatment. By multiple logistic regression analysis, only GA, hypotension, PDA, and longer duration of mechanical ventilation were independently associated with AKI. AKI was not independently associated with risk of death. Our study suggests that small increases (? 0.3 mg/dL) in SCr occur frequently in premature, VLBW infants, and are associated with increased morbidity but not mortality. AKI incidence and severity were highest in the youngest GA cohort. Understanding the epidemiology, risk factors, and impact of neonatal AKI is crucial as long-term premature infant survival continues to improve.
Splenic rupture due to any cause is a life-threatening complication and commonly attributed to trauma. Atraumatic splenic rupture is very rarely reported, and the incidence is currently unknown. Anticoagulants and dual anti-platelet medication can increase the chances of a splenic rupture. Surgical removal of the spleen may be warranted to prevent a life-threatening bleeding. Early identification and intervention are required for most patients as only a few qualify for medical management.
Vascular occlusive crisis with a concurrent vision loss on both eyes is one of the most devastating disability for sickle cell disease patients. Reportedly occlusive crisis in the eyes is usually temporary whereas if not appropriately managed can result in permanent vision loss. A carefully managed sickle cell crisis could prevent multiple disabilities including blindness and stroke. We report a case of a 24-year-old female with a history of sickle cell disease who had acute bilateral vision loss during a sickle crisis and recovered significantly with a timely emergent erythrocytapheresis.
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