# Kidney care at NICU discharge and follow-up recommendations for preterm infants<34 weeks

## TL;DR

This paper outlines kidney health recommendations for preterm infants to reduce long-term risks like chronic kidney disease and hypertension.

## Contribution

The paper introduces consensus-based guidelines for kidney evaluations and follow-up care for preterm infants born before 34 weeks.

## Key findings

- A kidney evaluation before NICU discharge and at two years of age is recommended for preterm infants.
- Comprehensive kidney assessments are advised for infants at highest risk, such as those born before 28 weeks.
- Parental education at multiple timepoints is emphasized to support early detection and management of kidney issues.

## Abstract

Preterm birth increases the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and hypertension later in life. To address these risks, the National Institutes of Health sponsored the Neonatal Kidney Health Consensus Workshop in February 2024, where a multidisciplinary group of experts reviewed current evidence, identified knowledge gaps, and developed consensus-based recommendations for kidney health follow-up in infants born <34 weeks. Key recommendations include a kidney evaluation before NICU discharge and at two years of age, with comprehensive kidney assessment for those at highest risk (birth <28 weeks, with acute kidney injury, intrauterine growth restriction, or small for gestational age). Cohesive, evidence-based parental education at multiple timepoints was emphasized to support early CKD detection and long-term management. This consensus provides a framework to optimize follow up and highlights research priorities aimed at improving risk stratification, early diagnosis, and interventions in individuals born preterm.