[Update on current care guidelines. Prevention and treatment of acute kidney injury in adults]

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Its prevalence is increasing. Risk factors are older age, diabetes, atherosclerosis, medications, heart failure, male sex, and even mild chronic renal failure. Early detection of AKI is essential, as is the prevention of AKI related to hypovolaemia, contrast agents and nephrotoxic medications. No medication is available for developed AKI, the only therapeutic option being renal replacement therapy. Thus, prevention by adequate fluid therapy, optimisation of renal perfusion pressure and exclusion of post-renal causes of AKI are crucial. To date, the long-term outcome in AKI is unsatisfactory and the costs are high.