Pediatric nephrology : journal of the International Pediatric Nephrology Association
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This article provides a review of the role of aliskiren, a direct renin inhibitor, in pediatric hypertension and kidney diseases. Among the many mechanisms involved in regulating blood pressure, the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) plays a major role. ⋯ The potential benefits of inhibiting the RAAS by aliskiren alone or in combination with other RAAS blockers (ACEIs, ARBs) seem to be theoretically promising. However, caution should be exercised in treating children, especially in those with significant chronic kidney disease until there is more evidence regarding the safety and efficacy of this new drug in the pediatric population from ongoing clinical trials.
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Early predictive biomarkers for the diagnosis and management of febrile urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be valuable diagnostic tools in children. ⋯ Our results suggest that uNGAL, uKIM-1 and sCysC levels may be useful for predicting and managing febrile UTIs in children.
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The factors that contribute to the development of acute kidney injury (AKI) and treatment outcome among prematurely born neonates are not clearly understood. ⋯ AKI is associated with high mortality in preterm neonates. It is very important to identify, as quickly as possible, all infants who are at high risk of developing AKI.