Biomarkers for AKI improve clinical practice: no

Excerpt

Despite recent developments in definition and staging, the diagnosis of (AKI) acute kidney injury is still based on oliguria and/or an increase in serum creatinine [1]. Consequently, research in the last decade has focussed on the discovery and validation of more specific and sensitive markers of tubular damage/functional impairment. The most advanced biomarkers promise to identify patients at risk of AKI, diagnose AKI earlier than conventional tests and prognosticate risk of progression, including need for (RRT) renal replacement therapy [2‐16]. The hope is that, with such an approach and more timely and relevant interventions, the outcome of patients with AKI can be improved. Commercial biomarker kits are now available in most countries. However, like any other new diagnostic test, these novel AKI biomarkers need to add value above and beyond currently available tools, before being incorporated into routine clinical practice. It is therefore essential to have a close look at the expectations of AKI biomarkers and their actual performance and potential role in practice. …