Hepatorenal Syndrome
Hepatorenal Syndrome (HRS) Specialists in Arizona (Liver-Kidney Disease Doctors)
Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) is a serious, life-threatening condition in which advanced liver disease leads to a rapid decline in kidney function. It’s a key example of how interconnected the liver and kidneys are. Our board-certified specialists offer timely, expert care to diagnose and manage this condition, providing a compassionate and streamlined approach to your care.
Understanding How Liver Disease Affects the Kidneys
In advanced liver disease, blood flow dynamics within the body are severely altered. Large blood vessels in the abdomen widen, lowering blood pressure and diverting blood away from the kidneys. In response, the kidneys try to compensate by constricting their vessels, further starving them of blood and leading to progressive failure. This is why a person with liver failure may experience a sudden decrease in urine output or confusion, even though their kidneys are not structurally damaged.
Your HRS Treatment Plan at Southwest Kidney Institute
Treatment for HRS focuses on managing fluid balance, improving blood flow to the kidneys, and addressing the underlying liver disease. Therapies may include medications to constrict blood vessels and increase blood pressure, often used in combination with albumin infusions. While these treatments can provide crucial support, the definitive cure is a liver transplant. Dialysis may also be used as a temporary bridge to transplantation.
Request an Appointment with Southwest Kidney Institute
If you have advanced liver disease and notice a rapid decrease in urine output, unexplained swelling, or mental confusion, seek immediate medical attention. Our specialists provide urgent evaluation and treatment for hepatorenal syndrome, as prompt intervention is essential to prevent permanent kidney damage and improve the chances of a positive outcome.