Prediction of Akute Kidney Injury Development in Critically Ill Septic Patients Based on NGAL Determination

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a consequence of several diseases that can severely damage kidney function. It is a frequent complication of hospitalization and very common in critically ill patients because of other serious illnesses, such as septic conditions. New diagnostic options, including renal biomarkers, may help in early diagnosis. Our study included 46 patients, 31 with AKI and 15 without AKI on admission. Blood samples were collected on the first, fourth, and seventh days of treatment, and in addition to basic biochemical parameters, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) levels in serum were also examined. Data from the first and seventh day were used for statistical analysis. On the first follow-up day, NGAL values were categorized according to an optimal cut-off value of 290 µg/l. We demonstrated that if NGAL levels were higher, the risk of renal injury increased approximately 16 times. Other results showed that NGAL levels were moderately correlated with serum creatinine (r = 0.613, p < 0.0001), procalcitonin (PCT) (r = 0.627, p < 0.0001), and AKI stage (r = 0.589, p < 0.0001). There was also a significant positive correlation with SOFA (Sequential Organ Failure Assessment) score (r = 0.395, p = 0.007). Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing AKI and preventing further kidney damage. NGAL levels can increase within a few hours after injury, making it a useful tool for early AKI detection and diagnosis.