Alternate Names :
Necrosis – renal tubular, ATN, Necrosis – acute tubular
Definition
Acute tubular necrosis is a kidney disorder involving damage to the tubule cells of the kidneys, resulting in acute kidney failure.
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Acute tubular necrosis (ATN) is caused by lack of oxygen to the kidney tissues (ischemia of the kidneys).
The internal structures of the kidney, particularly the tissues of the kidney tubule, become damaged or destroyed. ATN is one of the most common structural changes that can lead to acute renal failure.
ATN is one of the most common causes of kidney failure in hospitalized patients. Risks for acute tubular necrosis include:
* Blood transfusion reaction
* Injury or trauma that damages the muscles
* Recent major surgery
* Septic shock or other forms of shock
* Severe low blood pressure (hypotension) that lasts longer than 30 minutes
Liver disease and kidney damage caused by diabetes (diabetic nephropathy) may make a person more susceptible to the condition.
ATN can be caused by:
* Exposure to medications that are toxic to the kidneys (such as aminoglycoside antibiotics)
* Antifungal agents (such as amphotericin)
* Dye used for x-ray (radiographic) studies
Pictures & Images
Kidney anatomy
The kidneys are responsible for removing wastes from the body, regulating electrolyte balance and blood pressure, and stimulating red blood cell production.
Kidney – blood and urine flow
This is the typical appearance of the blood vessels (vasculature) and urine flow pattern in the kidney. The blood vessels are shown in red and the urine flow pattern in yellow.
Acute tubular necrosis: Overview, Causes
Acute tubular necrosis: Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
Acute tubular necrosis : Treatment
Reviewed By : Parul Patel, MD, Private Practice specializing in Nephrology and Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation, Affiliated with California Pacific Medical Center, Department of Transplantation, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
