Earthquake-related acute kidney shut down; an overview of pre-existing associated factors

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a critical complication that can arise in the aftermath of earthquakes, particularly due to crush syndrome, which is the second most frequent cause of mortality in such disasters. The causes of AKI in earthquake victims are multifactorial, including direct renal trauma, hypovolemia, rhabdomyolysis and hemodynamic alterations. Rhabdomyolysis, the breakdown of damaged muscle tissue, is a primary contributor, releasing intracellular components into the bloodstream that can overwhelm the kidneys. Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes, or hypertension are more susceptible to AKI. These conditions impair renal function, making the kidneys more vulnerable to additional stressors such as dehydration or rhabdomyolysis.