Hepatorenal syndrome: Literature review

Abstract

Background: Hepatorenal syndrome is a renal dysfunction that occurs in patients with chronic liver disease such as liver cirrhosis or acute liver disease, characterized by the activation of regulatory mechanisms that lead to a decrease in the glomerular filtration rate. Clinically, hepatorenal syndrome is divided into two types, type 1 and type 2. Type 1 is characterized by a rapid and progressive loss of kidney function while type 2 is characterized by slow progression and a better prognosis. Purpose: To analyze the natural history of the disease presented by patients who develop hepatorenal syndrome. Methodology: A review of the scientific literature of published manuscripts on hepatorenal syndrome was carried out to evaluate the natural history of this pathology. Results: There are no specific clinical findings, however, its clinical manifestations reflect the underlying advanced liver disease, kidney failure, and circulatory abnormalities present. Conclusions: The most appropriate therapeutic option is liver transplantation, but not all patients can receive it, while accessing said management an option is drug treatment with vasoconstrictors and albumin. © 2022, Asociacion Colombiana de Nefrologia e Hipertension Arterial. All rights reserved.