A Review of Hepatorenal Syndrome

Abstract

The development of acute kidney injury (AKI) is one of the most frequent complications in patients with cirrhosis. AKI due to volume depletion is the most common etiology and hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) is the second most common cause of AKI in these patients. HRS is the extreme form of kidney injury in patients with cirrhosis, which is caused due to a reduction in renal blood flow unresponsive to volume expansion. The literature involving HRS is rapidly evolving and newer tests and updated definitions have been proposed which allows timely identification and treatment. Here, we will discuss the definition, pathophysiology, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of HRS.