Spectrum of Pregnancy-Related Acute Kidney Injury in Obstetric Patients: A Retrospective Study.

BACKGROUND: Acute kidney injury (AKI) in obstetric patients is a significant medical complication that can lead to severe maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Understanding the spectrum and outcomes of AKI in this population is crucial for improving clinical management and outcomes. METHODS: This retrospective study enrolled 50 antenatal, postnatal, and postabortal patients who met the KDIGO criteria. Patients were followed up for three months post-acute insult. Data on patient demographics, clinical presentation, causes of AKI, treatment modalities, and outcomes were collected and analyzed. RESULTS: Out of the 50 patients, 56.0% presented with AKI in the postpartum period, 36% during the antenatal period, and 8.0% in the postabortal period. The leading causes of AKI were hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (44.0%), followed by hemorrhage in pregnancy (28.0%), sepsis (14.0%), and obstructed labor (10.0%). Renal replacement therapy (RRT) was required in 68.0% of the patients. Complete recovery of renal function was observed in 74.0% of patients, while maternal mortality occurred in 12.0%. Among the patients who delivered, 58.0% had live births, and 42.0% had stillbirths. CONCLUSION: Timely initiation of RRT in obstetric patients with AKI is associated with favorable maternal outcomes irrespective of the underlying cause, including complete recovery of renal function. Early recognition and management of AKI in pregnancy are essential to reduce maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality.