Con: Cautionary tales and reservations about the adoption of new technologies and biomarkers for the management of acute kidney injury

Abstract

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is an important health-care problem. Over the last decades, many innovative therapies and diagnostic approaches have been tried; however, none of these has been able to confirm consistently that they lead to improved outcomes. Much focus has been placed on intensive care unit (ICU)-associated AKI, whereas the bulk of AKI still concerns patients not in the ICU. Involvement of nephrologists in the care of AKI patients is necessary to further improve outcomes. It is unclear whether new technologies, such as biomarkers, are helpful and could replace nephrology consultation.

Demystifying Renal Angina

“…If we do reach the stage where the cost can be managed, perhaps in the near future, a combined biomarkers package can be suggested for certain groups of patients, especially those at risk. It really comes down to the right combination of diagnostic capabilities, cost effectiveness and not using these biomarkers test indiscriminately [49][50][51].…”

Use of the Renal Angina Index in Determining Acute Kidney Injury

“…However, it is necessary that these biomarkers be used in an appropriate setting, because they may be affected by comorbidities, and their performance may decrease in a different setting. 9 , 10 Thus, an appropriate risk assessment for AKI is required in every patient admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU).…”