What is a common cause of prerenal acute kidney injury?

A common cause of prerenal acute kidney injury is dehydration. This occurs because dehydration leads to a reduction in blood volume, which decreases renal perfusion. The kidneys rely on adequate blood flow to filter waste and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance. When the blood volume is insufficient, the kidneys respond by conserving water but may eventually become compromised in function, leading to acute kidney injury.

Factors that cause a decrease in blood flow to the kidneys also contribute to prerenal acute kidney injury. Heart failure can lead to inadequate perfusion of the kidneys due to reduced cardiac output. While diuretic overuse can cause dehydration, it is important to note that it is primarily a cause of intrinsic acute kidney injury rather than prerenal. Obstruction is associated with postrenal acute kidney injury, which results from blockages in the urinary tract rather than issues with blood flow to the kidneys themselves. Therefore, dehydration stands out as a direct and common cause of prerenal acute kidney injury.