Correspondence: The use of IL-6 inhibitors in patients with COVID-19 who develop acute kidney injury

In this single-center cohort study of COVID-19 in patients with kidney disease hospitalized in the first surge of our local pandemic (3/19/2020 to 7/31/2021), we observed high rates of respiratory failure, renal replacement therapy needs and mortality, especially in those with acute kidney injury (AKI) [1]. Kow et al point out the potential benefits of interleukin-6 (IL-6) inhibitors in the treatment of patients with COVID-19 and AKI [2] based on a prospective meta-analysis performed by The WHO Rapid Evidence Appraisal for COVID-19 Therapies (REACT) Working Group which was published in August 2021, after our first-surge study was completed [3]. Treatments for COVID-19 have evolved over the pandemic and our cohort study describes experience during first surge of the pandemic, when IL-6 inhibitors were not broadly used in patients with COVID-19. Given the rapidly changing landscape of COVID-19 incidence, vaccination and treatment approaches, understanding the key drivers of COVID-19 outcomes and best treatment options in patients with co-morbid kidney disease is a challenging but critically important topic. Ongoing studies and dynamic management recommendations are needed as knowledge of the optimal care of COVID-19 in patients with comorbidity and high-risk profiles continues to evolve.