The authors of the current study noted that certain risk factors, such as hypertension, obesity, and alcohol use may contribute to dementia, and they wanted to focus on whether acute kidney injury increases the risk. Ascertaining additional risk factors of dementia is important for identifying high-risk individuals early and advancing preventative and monitoring strategies,” the authors write.Â
The authors noted that acute kidney injury carries a higher risk of mortality and may disrupt the blood-brain barrier. The researchers used data from the SCREAM project, which tracks healthcare data from Swedish citizens.Â
Creatinine measurement assesses kidney function. Part of the researchers’ inclusion criteria was that participants could not have a dementia diagnosis at the beginning of the study.Â
The researchers used follow-up creatinine measurements to assess for acute kidney injury events. The authors considered acute kidney injury events to have occurred when participants had a creatinine measurement of 1.5 times higher than their baseline, a creatinine measurement of 0.3 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) higher than average, or an incidence of temporary dialysis.The researchers took note of any dementia findings. They based this on whether participants started antidementia drugs, diagnostic codes, or registration in the Swedish registry of cognitive/dementia disorders (Sve/Dem).
After going through the SCREAM project records, the scientists were able to link an incident of acute kidney injury to developing dementia. Overall, the study highlights that people who have acute kidney injuries – especially those who have severe acute kidney injury incidents – may need extra attention in terms of monitoring their cognitive health. As a clinical application, this study thus identifies individuals with acute kidney injury as a population in which monitoring for dementia and potential preventive and therapeutic strategies may be indicated.Â
Researchers also explained that the study results could make providers aware of the possible need to see a neurologist after a severe acute kidney injury for assessment or to get a baseline in case there is change in the future so that symptoms are caught early.Â
In addition to acute kidney injuries, chronic kidney disease can also impact the risk of dementia. They have known for some time that kidney disease or failure contributes to cognitive decline and possible dementia, especially in sicker individuals and those well over 65. The recent findings linking acute kidney injury with an increased risk of dementia could lead to significant changes in clinical practice.Â
Singh further explained that the findings would help enhanced monitoring, integrative care approaches, and preventative strategies. Given the connection between acute kidney injury and cognitive decline, I think there will likely be a need for more rigorous monitoring of cognitive function in these patients. Regular cognitive assessments could become a standard part of follow-up care, enabling early detection of potential dementia.
