Strategies for the Management of Cardiorenal Syndrome in the Acute Hospital Setting

Abstract

Cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) is a life-threatening disorder that involves a complex interplay between the two organs. Managing this multifaceted syndrome is challenging in the hospital and requires a multidisciplinary approach to tackle the many manifestations and complications. There is no universally accepted algorithm to treat patients, and therapeutic options vary from one patient to another. The mainstays of therapy involve the stabilization of hemodynamics, decongestion using diuretics or renal replacement therapy, improvement of cardiac output with inotropes, and goal-directed medical treatment with renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system inhibitors, beta-blockers, and other medications. Mechanical circulatory support is another viable option in the armamentarium of agents that improve symptoms in select patients.