Cardiorenal Syndrome

? Cardiorenal syndrome is common in patients suffering with initial severe forms of heart or kidney failure. ? A tight bidirectional link exists between these two organs and their reciprocal involvement is typical and progressive. ? Critically ill patients may have cardiorenal syndrome in the context of multiple organ failure. ? Prolonged (and artificial) organ support in end-stage heart and kidney failure has led to a novel form of cardiorenal syndrome where the organ is injured also by artificial support (chronic dialysis or ventricular-assist device). ? Pediatric cardiorenal syndrome is typical after cardiac surgery but the novel classification is revealing a frequent occurrence in this setting of frail patients.