Effect of Ambient Temperature on Kidney Function.

BACKGROUND: Extreme ambient temperatures-particularly occupational heat stress-are a major driver of renal dysfunction in resource-limited settings. Such exposures heighten the risk of nephrolithiasis and acute kidney injury (AKI), contributing substantially to global morbidity. SUMMARY: This review outlines the impact of rising environmental temperatures on renal physiology and the risk of heat-related AKI, chronic kidney disease of uncertain etiology (CKDu) and nephrolithiasis. Prolonged heat exposure promotes water and electrolyte losses, reduces renal perfusion and activates oxidative and inflammatory pathways, culminating in heat-stress nephropathy or CKDu in vulnerable agricultural populations.