How long does AKI last?
AKI usually lasts 10-14 days, or most by 3 weeks. But it can be as little as 2 days and upto 3 months.
The kidney function usually returns to the baseline level. This will be normal kidney function if the kidneys were normal before the AKI episode.
Most people get better without dialysis, but a small number (about 5%) need temporary dialysis to remove toxins and water from the body (i.e. to carry out the normal functions of the kidney for you) until they get better.
Outlook for AKI
The outlook is largely dependent on the outlook of the underlying condition. The mortality is high. Overall it is over 10% (double the ‘normal’ mortality for a medical admission); 30% if transferred to a renal ward, and 50% if dialysis is required there.
If the patient is on ICU (and on ventilator), the mortality is higher again (70%).
If the patient is on dialysis at 3 months, this is not a good sign, and you should start making plans for long-term dialysis or a kidney transplant.
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