What is hepatorenal syndrome (HRS)?
The current definition of hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) updated in 2007 by the International Ascites Club (IAC) states that it is “a potentially reversible syndrome that occurs in patients with cirrhosis, ascites and liver failure, consisting of impaired kidney function, marked abnormalities in cardiovascular function, and intense over-activity of the endogenous vasoactive systems.”
It can appear spontaneously or follow a precipitating event. It is important to emphasize that HRS is a form of prerenal acute kidney injury (AKI) not associated with structural changes; a kidney biopsy usually reveals normal histology.
