Journal de néphrologie et thérapeutique

Mechanisms of Hyperkalemia in Chronic Kidney Disease and Strategies for Management

Abstract

Dustin Tamargo

Hyperkalemia, defined as an elevated serum potassium level, is a common and potentially life-threatening complication of Chronic Kidney Disease. As kidney function declines, the ability to excrete potassium diminishes, leading to its accumulation in the blood. Hyperkalemia can result in severe cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness, necessitating prompt and effective management. This article reviews the underlying mechanisms of hyperkalemia in CKD, including impaired renal potassium excretion, altered cellular distribution of potassium, and the impact of medications such as renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors. Additionally, we discuss various strategies for managing hyperkalemia in CKD patients, ranging from dietary modifications and potassium-binding agents to the use of novel pharmacological treatments. Understanding these mechanisms and management strategies is crucial for optimizing care and preventing the adverse outcomes associated with hyperkalemia in CKD.