Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common and serious complication in critically ill children admitted to pediatric intensive care units (PICUs). Early detection of AKI is crucial for timely intervention and improved patient outcomes. This study investigates the utility of serum cystatin C as an early indicator for AKI in critically ill children in PICUs. A prospective cohort study was conducted, involving a sample of critically ill children admitted to PICUs. Serum cystatin C levels were measured at regular intervals, and AKI was diagnosed using standard criteria. The results indicate that serum cystatin C levels rise significantly in children with AKI, providing a potential early biomarker for AKI detection. This study sheds light on the clinical utility of serum cystatin C in predicting AKI development, allowing for timely interventions and improved management of critically ill children in PICUs.

Acute kidney injury, serum cystatin C, critically ill children

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