Acute kidney injury in children significantly increases risk of future kidney complications

New evidence shows children who experience acute kidney injury (AKI) are at significantly high risk of experiencing kidney health complications later in life, with 18 percent of these children at risk. The results, published in the Journal of the American Association Society of Nephrology, suggest pediatricians and family doctors should closely monitor children’s kidney health following AKI.

While some studies had already shown a link between AKI in children and long-term kidney health complications, these studies tended to be small or in certain populations (e.g., premature babies, pediatric cancer patients, and children in intensive care units).

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Cardiovascular considerations in choosing a medication for glomerular disease

A new study suggests some drugs used to treat glomerular disease, such as calcium inhibitors and cyclophosphamide, are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular complications. The results, published in Kidney International, could help patients and doctors make more informed treatment decisions when taking long-term side effects into consideration.

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Researcher Q & A

Pediatric nephrologist Dr. Susan Samuel is a new investigator at BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute (BCCHR) and a professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of British Columbia. She is also serving as the director for the Empowering Next-Generation Researchers in Perinatal and Child Health (ENRICH) program, a national network of mentors and learners. Read this Q & A to learn about nephrotic syndrome in children, Dr. Samuel's career path, and her insights into the importance of research and mentorship: Unlocking the mystery of nephrotic syndrome in kids: Q&A with new investigator Dr. Susan Samuel