Biomarkers in Cardiorenal Syndrome: Focus on Type 1

Cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) is a complex, multiorgan condition that encompasses a spectrum of disorders arising from the close interaction between cardiovascular and renal diseases. The serum creatinine (SCr) levels and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) have traditionally been used in the diagnosis and prognosis of CRS; however, these biomarkers are not always effective in detecting early acute renal damage. CRS type 1 is characterized by an acute cardiac event that leads to acute kidney injury (AKI). The Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes definition has several limitations in diagnosing AKI owing to the limited specificity, sensitivity, and timeliness of the SCr levels. The use of tubular injury biomarkers to detect the early stages of kidney disease has led to the development of subclinical AKI. This review summarizes the currently available renal biomarkers and their potential clinical applications in CRS type 1.