According to Bengaluru doctors, approximately one in every three COVID-19 patients is being diagnosed with Acute Kidney Injury (AKI). Reports from New York and China has also stated that almost 30 percent of all COVID-19 patients are developing moderate to severe kidney injury.

Dr Jagadish Hiremath, CEO, Ace Suhas Hospital, while explaining how coronavirus can damages the kidneys, said that kidney cells have receptors, which can allow the new coronavirus to get attach to them, invade them and also make duplicates of itself, thus potentially damaging these tissues. The coronavirus might cause small clots in the bloodstream clogging small blood vessels in the kidney that can impair its functioning. Moreover, the cytokine storms can also destroy the kidney tissues.

Chief urologist and MD, Regal Multi-Speciality Hospital, Dr Suri Raju V, said that the patients who are admitted to ICUs are likely to develop AKI. Long-term effects due to COVID-19 on the kidneys are still unknown and could be a cause of concern. He further said that several nephrologists have concern that COVID-19 can cause long-term effects on kidney functions. Few people, who are already suffering from chronic kidney disease might experience a bigger obstacle. Moreover, those who don’t have any issues might develop chronic kidney diseases. After their recovery, these patients should regularly follow up with doctors to check whether their kidneys are functioning normally.

Dr Prakash G K, senior consultant in Nephrology at Manipal Hospitals, Malleswaram, said that a higher prevalence of AKI and also the mortality is observed among COVID-19 patients. Several cases are seen among the elderly, who have comorbidities and might require ventilation. A patient usually develops AKI as the kidneys suddenly stop working within 2 days or less. AKI progresses through three stages and the last stage will require dialysis. At Malleswaram centre, they have seen above 10-15 percent of patients who are developing kidney issues. Poor hydration along with drug intake during COVID-19 results in kidney failure.

Source: The New Indian Express