The term Hepatorenal syndrome is used to describe kidney failure that proceeds progressively. People with severe liver disease like cirrhosis and acute liver failure can get this disorder. Toxins begin to accumulate slowly in the body due to reduced function of kidneys, leading to liver failure. The symptoms of HRS are very mild or almost no signs are evident till the disease has progressed rapidly. The main cause of HRS is acute liver problems and cirrhosis. There is no cure for this disorder and often people would die within 2-4 weeks after diagnosed with this syndrome.
Types :
Hepatorenal syndrome is classified into two types.
- HRS 1 or Type 1 syndrome kidney failure is rapid and acute. This builds up plenty of creatinine in blood.
- In Type 2 HRS, kidney failure is slow and gradual. The damage to the kidneys occurs as a process and in this case the patient can be saved if promptly diagnosed.
Who are at risk?
People with liver cirrhosis are at high risk of developing Hepatorenal syndrome. Those who are hospitalized for long periods for liver problems are likely to develop HRS. 1 out of 10 people with severe liver problems can develop this disorder. People with prolonged infection, people who are using diuretics for long, people with gastrointestinal problems and bleeding, and those with orthostatic hypotension (having sudden fall of BP while changing position) are at high risk of getting HRS.
Causes :
People with liver problems only develop Hepatorenal syndrome. Due to intense liver problem, the kidney may not be able to function normally, leading to accumulation of waste products and toxin in the blood. Those who are alcoholic and diagnosed with cirrhosis are more likely to get this syndrome than others.
Symptoms :
Generally the symptoms are very subtle in case of people with type 1 HRS. Those with chronic or gradual liver problems may not show any signs until the disease has progressed. People with existing liver problems should be careful and report any changes to the physician immediately. They may show signs of confusion or mental instability, nausea, vomiting, reduced urine output, sudden increase in weight, dementia and swelling of abdomen. Abdominal swelling can occur due to accumulation of waste products and fluids and the color of urine can be very dark. It can also cause muscle jerks and in some causes jaundice (yellow coloration of skin and eyes) may be present.