Clinical Profile of Patients with Acute Kidney Injury Secondary to Gastroenteritis Attending a Tertiary Care Centre

Abstract

Introduction: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a frequent and potentially reversible complication of acute gastroenteritis, primarily resulting from dehydration and renal hypoperfusion. Delayed recognition may lead to prolonged hospitalization, dialysis requirement, and increased mortality.

Aim & Objective: This study evaluated the clinical profile, severity, risk factors, and outcomes of AKI secondary to acute gastroenteritis in patients attending a tertiary care centre.

Materials & Methods: A prospective observational cross-sectional study was conducted over 18 months in the Department of General Medicine at a tertiary care teaching hospital. A total of 160 adult patients (≥18 years) with acute gastroenteritis who developed AKI according to KDIGO criteria were included. Patients with pre-existing chronic kidney disease, prior renal dysfunction, or AKI due to causes other than gastroenteritis were excluded. Clinical details, laboratory investigations, hydration status, AKI staging, complications, dialysis requirement, and outcomes were recorded and analyzed using appropriate statistical methods.

Results: The mean age of the study population was 50.17±16.81 years. Complete recovery was achieved in 68.8% of patients, partial recovery in 27.5%, and mortality was 3.7%. Increasing AKI severity was significantly associated with longer hospital stay, poorer clinical outcomes, and greater dialysis requirement (p<0.001). Severe dehydration, septicemia, shock, and dialysis requirement were significant predictors of adverse outcomes, whereas progressive reduction in blood urea and serum creatinine reflected improvement following appropriate treatment.

Conclusion: Acute kidney injury secondary to gastroenteritis is predominantly related to dehydration-induced renal hypoperfusion. Early diagnosis, prompt fluid resuscitation, correction of electrolyte abnormalities, and timely supportive management result in favorable renal recovery, while severe AKI, septicemia, shock, and dialysis requirement predict poor prognosis. Early intervention is essential to reduce morbidity and mortality in these patients.

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