ACUTE TUBULAR NECROSIS

Acute tubular necrosis (ATN) is a medical condition involving the death of tubular epithelial cells that form the renal tubules of the kidneys and caused by the lack of oxygen and blood flow to the kidneys.

When this happens acute kidney failure may occur, with electrolytes and fluids increasing in the body, possibly past safe levels.

CAUSES 

The most frequent causes of acute tubular necrosis are a stroke or a heart attack, conditions that reduce oxygen to the kidneys.

Chemicals can also damage the tubules. These include X-ray contrast dye, anesthesia drugs, antibiotics and other toxic chemicals.

RISK ACUTE

Risk factors for acute tubular necrosis include situations where blood flow is cut off or reduced (as with blood clots), extended periods of low blood pressure or shock.

Blood loss from surgery and trauma can also lead to acute tubular necrosis. Other risk factors are muscle damage and liver disease.

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of acute tubular necrosis include:

• A small amount of urine output.
• Swelling and fluid retention.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Trouble waking up/drowsiness.
• Feeling sluggish.
• Confusion

DIAGNOSE

Several tests can be used to diagnose acute renal failure. These include blood waste products such as blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine and electrolyte levels such as plasma potassium. The accumulation of these substances in the blood indicate that the kidneys are not working properly.

Acute tubular necrosis is usually diagnosed by a nephrologist (kidney specialist). The diagnosis is mainly clinical but can be guided by microscopic examination of your urine. A biopsy of the kidney tissue can be done in certain cases, especially when the diagnosis is uncertain.

PREVENTION

Maintaining blood flow and oxygen to the kidneys can reduce the chance of developing acute tubular necrosis.

If a test with contrast dye is needed, drink a lot of water beforehand and afterwards.

Make sure your blood has been cross-matched before you receive a transfusion.

Work with your healthcare provider to manage any diseases that can damage the kidneys, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, liver disease and heart disease.

Avoid over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications such as naproxen sodium and ibuprofen, especially if you have kidney disease.

HOMOEOPATHIC TREATMENT

Homoeopathy today is a rapidly growing system and is being practiced all over the world. Its strength lies in its evident effectiveness as it takes a holistic approach towards the sick individual through promotion of inner balance at mental, emotional, spiritual and physical levels. When Acute tubular necrosis   is concerned there are many effective medicines are available in Homoeopathy, but the selection depends upon the individuality of the patient, considering the mental and physical symptoms.

CUPRUM ARSENITUM -Cuprum ars is also a very effective remedy for Renal failure with high level of creatinine in blood. There is kidney inefficiency and uremia. The urine smell like garlic. Urine of high specific gravity increased, acetones and diacetic acid.

SERUM ANGUILLAE —Serum Anguilae is one of the best remedies for high level of creatinine in blood with renal failure. It is very effective in acute nephritis. Acute tubular necrosis. It is prescribed when hypertension and oliguria without oedema is present. Urine contains albumin.

ARALIA HISPIDA -Aralia hispida is found to be effective for high level of creatinine in blood. There is dropsy of renal origin. Urinary tract infection is present. Urine is scanty leading to complete suppression of urine. Renal diseases with constipation.

APIS MELLIFICA - Apis mel is another effective remedy where edematous swellings of face and extremities are present with thirstlessness.. Urination frequent but scanty. There is a feeling of suffocation and breathing difficult. All symptoms are worsening from heat and better from cold.

CANTHARIS - Cantharis is best for acute tubular necrosis where uremic delusions with sens of persecution is found. There is suppression of urine with restlessness, flushed face and sparkling eyes. The patient has an urge to pass urine but nothing is voided, there being no urine in bladder.

MERCURIUS CORROSIVUS —Merc cor is effective for acute renal failure with albuminous urine, which is scanty, hot, burning, passed drop by drop or suppressed, bloody, greenish discharge. Tenesmus of bladder. There is stabbing pain extending up urethra into bladder. There are severe lumbar pain and dyspnoea.