Definition and Evaluation of Acute Kidney Injury: Clinical Practice Guidelines / 대한내과학회지

ABSTRACT

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common clinical syndrome that carries a poor prognosis even in cases with seemingly mild or reversible renal dysfunction. Although this potentially devastating disease is associated with increased mortality, early detection and timely intervention may improve clinical outcomes. In this regard, a standardized definition and classification of AKI, reflecting prognosis on the basis of evidence, may allow early recognition and stage-based management of the disease. Nevertheless, there has been considerable variability and inconsistency in the definition and classification of AKI, resulting in failure to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice. The definition of AKI has evolved, with the introduction of the "Risk, Injury, Failure, Loss, and End-stage renal disease" (RIFLE), and "AKI Network" (AKIN) criteria. The recent "Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes" (KDIGO) guidelines proposed a uniform definition of AKI, essentially merging the RIFLE and AKIN criteria. This review will focus on the definition and classification of AKI, as proposed by KDIGO in 2012, and their use in clinical practice for clinicians.