Acute Kidney Injury in Patients with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is an important issue in patients hospitalized with ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI). Thisrenal complication has a complex and multifactorial pathogenesis and, depending on the definition used, its incidence ranges between 5% and 30%. In STEMI patients, the development of AKI, as well as its severity, have been independently associated with strikingly higher morbidity and mortality, both at short-term and long-term follow-up. The purpose of the present review is to provide a framework of reference and updates on the currently available evidence of AKI in STEMI. Raising cardiologists’ awareness of the clinical and prognostic impact of AKI might ultimately improve the outcomes of STEMI patients.