RenalInsufficiency

Venous thromboembolism (VTE), including pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep venous thrombosis (DVT), is a common and severe complication of critical illness. Although well documented in the general population, the prevalence of PE is less known in the ICU, where it is more difficult to diagnose and to treat. Critically ill patients are at high risk of VTE because they combine both general risk factors together with specific ICU risk factors of VTE, like sedation, immobilization, vasopressors or central venous catheter. Compression ultrasonography and computed tomography (CT) scan are the primary tools to diagnose DVT and PE, respectively, in the ICU. CT scan, as well as transesophageal echography, are good for evaluating the severity of PE. Thromboprophylaxis is needed in all ICU patients, mainly with low molecular weight heparin, such as fragmine, which can be used even in cases of non-severe renal failure. Mechanical thromboprophylaxis has to be used if anticoagulation is not possible. Nevertheless, VTE can occur despite well-conducted thromboprophylaxis.  

This new article discusses the emerging field of epigenetic therapy, and the evolving role that it could play in the future treatment of renal disease.  

Find out more about the association between the independent and combined effects of GFR and albuminuria on stroke risk.  

Hypertension (i.e. high blood pressure) and Diabetes are two of the most common causes of kidney failure in North America. These conditions can cause irreversible damage to the kidneys over a long period of time, leading to what is known as Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).  

Positive urine sediment and/or RBCs should always point you to intrinsic renal failure (ATN, AIN, glomerulonephritis), regardless of urine sodium and osmolal...  

Treatment with vemurafenib and dabrafenib was associated with acute renal toxicity in patients with melanoma, according to data from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System.