Salivary potassium measured by genetically encoded potassium ion indicators as a surrogate for plasma potassium levels in hemodialysis patients-a proof-of-concept study.

Background: Hyperkalemia is a common complication in cardiorenal patients treated with agents interfering with renal potassium (K+) excretion. It frequently leads to discontinuation of potentially life-saving medication, which has increased the importance of K+ monitoring. Non-invasive means to detect hyperkalemia are currently unavailable, but would be of potential use for therapy guidance.

Soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) predicts critical illness and kidney failure in patients admitted to the intensive care unit.

Soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) is an inflammatory biomarker and risk factor for kidney diseases, with a potential prognostic value in critically ill patients. In this monocentric prospective study, we measured plasma suPAR levels immediately after ICU admission in unselected 237 consecutive patients using a turbidimetric assay. Primary objective was the prognostic value for ICU- and 28-day mortality.