ISN Kidney Care Network study published in PLOS ONE sets out a standard for AKD care in LLMICs
A study led by ISN members under the ISN Kidney Care Network proves that a simple, low-cost approach to acute kidney disease (AKD) detection and management is both feasible and effective in LLMICs. With further stakeholder engagement, this model could become the standard of care for AKD in similar settings, ultimately reducing avoidable deaths and long-term kidney damage.
Why this study matters
AKD is a common but preventable cause of kidney failure and death in low- and low-middle-income countries (LLMICs). Yet strategies to manage AKD within routine healthcare remain scarce. This study addresses critical gaps in AKD detection and treatment in under-resourced settings where data, training, and tools are limited.
Study highlights
The Kidney Care Network introduced a strategy combining:
- A simple symptom-based risk score
- Point-of-care serum creatinine testing
- Targeted training for frontline healthcare workers
Implemented across Bolivia, Brazil, Nepal, and South Africa, the strategy was embedded into routine care across varied healthcare settings, from rural clinics to district hospitals.
Key findings
- AKD was detected in 67.8% of over 4,300 patients screened
- Most cases were linked to treatable causes like infection and dehydration
- Care was delivered locally in most cases, avoiding the need for dialysis
- Mortality was low (2.9%), and follow-up was achieved in 62% of discharged patients
About the Kidney Care Network
Launched in 2017, the ISN Kidney Care Network supports sustainable, locally driven improvements in kidney care. By empowering local teams through education, partnerships, and practical tools, the initiative advances effective AKD and acute kidney injury management within the constraints of regional healthcare systems.
