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Context: There are relatively few data on noncardiovascular (non-CV) long-term clinical outcomes of dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitor (DPP4i) treatment. Objective: We aimed to evaluate some non-CV effects of DPP4is in patients with diabetes. Methods: Based on data from the National Health Insurance Service database in Korea (2007-2018), we conducted 3 pairwise comparisons of metformin-combined antidiabetic therapies in adult patients with diabetes: DPP4is vs (1) all other oral antidiabetic agents, (2) sulfonylureas/glinides, and (3) thiazolidinediones (TZDs). Major outcomes were liver cirrhosis, end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and cancers in the liver, kidney, and pancreas. Adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs for the outcomes were estimated using an adjusted Cox model. Results: Of the 747 124 patients included, 628 217 had received DPP4i therapy for a mean duration of 33.8±25.0 months. Compared with TZD therapy, DPP4i therapy was associated with higher adjusted HRs [95% CIs] for liver cirrhosis (1.267 [1.108-1.449]), ESRD (1.596 [1.139-2.236]), liver cancer (1.117 [1.011-1.235]), and pancreatic cancer (1.158 [1.040-1.290]). Furthermore, apart from liver cirrhosis, a higher risk of each of these outcomes was associated with DPP4i use than with non-DPP4i use. The higher adjusted HRs associated with DPP4i use further increased when patients with long-term exposure to DPP4is were analyzed. Conclusion: DPP4i therapy in patients with diabetes was associated with a higher risk of liver cirrhosis and cancer, ESRD, and pancreatic cancer than TZD therapy and, except for liver cirrhosis, the risk of these outcomes was greater with DPP4i treatment than with non-DPP4i treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In most cases, hypothyroidism is not linked to kidney disease. However, hypothyroidism has been shown to hasten the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Aim of the Work: to evaluate thyroid abnormalities in patients with end stage renal disease in a sample of Egyptian populations. Patients and Methods: This study was conducted with 70 Egyptian Patients selected from Nephrology department in Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, in a case control study, they were categorized into 2 groups Group 1: Stage V renal disease group (n = 40): patients with eGFR <15mL/min with no history of thyroid disease or receiving any thyroid medications. Group 2: Age and sex matched health population group (n = 30): with normal renal function with no history of thyroid disease or receiving any thyroid medications. All subjects underwent full thyroid profile, and estimated GFR. Results: Symptoms of thyroid dysfunction were more frequent in end stage group, the difference statistically were significant only in muscle weakness. TSH was statistically significantly higher in cases with hypothyroidism. TGABs were statistically significantly higher in cases with hypothyroidism. Antimicrosomal antibodies recorded only in hypothyroid cases, the differences were statistically significant. FT3, TSH, TGABs and thyroid volume statistically had perfect diagnostic performance in diagnosing hypothyroidism among end stage renal disease group. Conclusion: Frequency of hypothyroidism was higher in end stage renal disease patients compared to control group. So, it is important to keep monitoring thyroid functions in patients with advanced renal impairment that may enhance quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insulinomas are rare, and even rarer in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Clear criteria for the biochemical diagnosis of insulinomas in patients with renal failure have not been established, and hypoglycemia is often attributed to the renal disease itself, frequently leading to a delay in diagnosis. We describe a case of a patient who presented with asymptomatic recurrent hypoglycemia during hemodialysis. Disease progression and biochemical testing strongly suggested an insulinoma. Computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen and pelvis, 111In-pentetreotide scintigraphy and endoscopic ultrasound did not localize a pancreatic tumor. A calcium stimulation test was performed while the patient was taking diazoxide due to severe hypoglycemia with fasting for a couple of hours without treatment. The test showed a marked increase in insulin after calcium infusion in the dorsal pancreatic artery, localizing the tumor to the body and tail of the gland. Exploratory surgery easily identified a tumor at the body of the pancreas and pathology confirmed an insulin-secreting pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor. On follow-up, there was resolution of the hypoglycemia. We review the challenges of diagnosing an insulinoma in ESRD and describe a successful intra-arterial calcium stimulation test done in an ESRD patient while continuing diazoxide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kidney disease is a global public health problem, affecting over 750 million persons worldwide. The burden of kidney disease varies substantially across the world, as does its detection and treatment. In many settings, rates of kidney disease and the provision of its care are defined by socio-economic, cultural, and political factors leading to significant disparities. World Kidney Day 2019 offers an opportunity to raise awareness of kidney disease and highlight disparities in its burden and current state of global capacity for prevention and management. Here, we highlight that many countries still lack access to basic diagnostics, a trained nephrology workforce, universal access to primary health care, and renal replacement therapies. We point to the need for strengthening basic infrastructure for kidney care services for early detection and management of acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease across all countries and advocate for more pragmatic approaches to providing renal replacement therapies. Achieving universal health coverage worldwide by 2030 is one of the World Health Organization's Sustainable Development Goals. While universal health coverage may not include all elements of kidney care in all countries, understanding what is feasible and important for a country or region with a focus on reducing the burden and consequences of kidney disease would be an important step towards achieving kidney health equity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: End-stage renal disease (ESRD) increases the risk of implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) infection. We sought to define outcomes of lead extraction in patients with ESRD.Methods and Results: Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator lead extractions at our institution from January 2006 to March 2014 were stratified by absence (Control-Ex, n = 465) or presence (ESRD-Ex, n = 43) of ESRD. Procedural outcomes and survival were determined by medical records review. Survival in the ESRD-Ex group was compared with a contemporaneous cohort with ESRD undergoing ICD lead implantation (ESRD-I, n = 127). Among extraction patients, those with ESRD were more likely to be extracted for infection (74.4% vs. 28.6%, P < 0.001). Extraction procedure success (Control-Ex: 97% vs. ESRD-Ex: 93%, P = 0.17) and procedural deaths (Control-Ex: 1.1% vs. ESRD-Ex: 2.3%, P = 0.413) were similar. Survival 1 year following extraction was worse in the ESRD-Ex group compared with the Control-Ex, with a survival rate of 65.6% vs. 92.6% (P < 0.001); these curves continued to diverge through year 3. One-year survival in the ESRD-Ex group was worse than among ESRD patients undergoing ICD implant (ESRD-I), but these curves converged and survival was similar by year 3.Conclusions: Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator lead extraction can be performed safely and effectively in patients with ESRD. However, despite high rates of procedural success, long-term mortality following extraction in ESRD patients is substantial. Much of the long-term mortality risk appears to be accounted for by the presence of ESRD and an indication for an ICD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of elderly patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) has increased significantly during the last decade. Elderly ESRD patients are vulnerable to infectious complications because of an aged immune system. Additional immunological ageing effects may be derived from the uraemic environment and cytomegalovirus (CMV) latency. Elderly patients may be affected by these factors in particular, but data in this age group are limited. To assess the degree of immunological ageing and proliferative capacity of T lymphocytes, 49 elderly ESRD patients (defined as aged ≥ 65 years) on the renal transplantation waiting list were recruited and compared to 44 elderly healthy individuals (HI), matched for age and CMV serostatus. CMV latency was associated with more highly differentiated CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in both elderly HI and patients. Elderly CMV seropositive ESRD patients showed a substantial reduction in the number of naive CD4+ and CD8+ T cells compared with age- and CMV serostatus-matched HI. Elderly ESRD patients also showed significantly decreased numbers of central memory CD4+ and CD8+ T cells compared with HI, independently of CMV serostatus. In addition, thymic output and relative telomere length of both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were decreased in CMV seropositive ESRD patients compared with HI. The proliferative capacity of T cells was similar for patients and HI. Elderly ESRD patients have an advanced aged T cell compartment when compared to age-matched healthy controls, which is driven mainly by CMV latency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A bstract Studies to evaluate the therapeutic potential of stem cells in humans would benefit from more realistic animal models. In veterinary medicine, companion animals naturally develop many diseases that resemble human conditions, therefore, representing a novel source of preclinical models. To understand how companion animal disease models are being studied for this purpose, we reviewed the literature between 2008 and 2015 for reports on stem cell therapies in dogs and cats, excluding laboratory animals, induced disease models, cancer, and case reports. Disease models included osteoarthritis, intervertebral disc degeneration, dilated cardiomyopathy, inflammatory bowel diseases, Crohn's fistulas, meningoencephalomyelitis (multiple sclerosis-like), keratoconjunctivitis sicca (Sjogren's syndrome-like), atopic dermatitis, and chronic (end-stage) kidney disease. Stem cells evaluated in these studies included mesenchymal stem-stromal cells (MSC, 17/19 trials), olfactory ensheathing cells (OEC, 1 trial), or neural lineage cells derived from bone marrow MSC (1 trial), and 16/19 studies were performed in dogs. The MSC studies (13/17) used adipose tissue-derived MSC from either allogeneic (8/13) or autologous (5/13) sources. The majority of studies were open label, uncontrolled studies. Endpoints and protocols were feasible, and the stem cell therapies were reportedly safe and elicited beneficial patient responses in all but two of the trials. In conclusion, companion animals with naturally occurring diseases analogous to human conditions can be recruited into clinical trials and provide realistic insight into feasibility, safety, and biologic activity of novel stem cell therapies. However, improvements in the rigor of manufacturing, study design, and regulatory compliance will be needed to better utilize these models. S tem C ells 2016;34:1709-1729 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Chronic systemic inflammation is common in patients with chronic kidney disease on dialysis (CKD5D) and has been considered a key mediator of the increased cardiovascular risk in this patient population. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that supplementation of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs) will attenuate the systemic inflammatory process in CKD5D patients. Methods The design was a randomized, double-blinded, placebo controlled pilot trial (NCT00655525). Thirty-eight patients were randomly assigned in a 1 : 1 fashion to receive 2.9 g of eicosapentaenoic acid (C20:5, n-3) plus docosahexaenoic acid (C22:6, n-3) versus placebo for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was change in pro-inflammatory chemokines measured by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Secondary outcomes were changes in systemic inflammatory markers. Analysis of covariance was used to compare percent change from baseline to 12 weeks. Results Thirty-one patients completed 12 weeks and three patients completed 6 weeks of the study. Median age was 52 (interquartile range 45, 60) years, 74% were African-American and 79% were male. Supplementation of ω-3 PUFAs effectively decreased the LPS-induced PBMC expression of RANTES (Regulated upon Activation, Normal T cell Expressed and Secreted) and MCP-1 (Monocyte Chemotactic Protein-1; unadjusted P = 0.04 and 0.06; adjusted for demographics P = 0.02 and 0.05, respectively). There was no significant effect of the intervention on serum inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein, interleukin-6 and procalcitonin). Conclusions The results of this pilot study suggest that supplementation of ω-3 PUFAs is beneficial in decreasing the levels of endothelial chemokines, RANTES and MCP-1. Studies of larger sample size and longer duration are required to further evaluate effects of ω-3 PUFAs on systemic markers of inflammation, other metabolic parameters and clinical outcomes, particularly cardiovascular outcomes in CKD5D patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among patients on dialysis, cardiovascular disease and infection are leading causes of hospitalization and death. Although recent studies have found that the risk of cardiovascular events is higher after an infection-related hospitalization, studies have not fully elucidated how the risk of cardiovascular events changes over time for patients on dialysis. In this work, we characterize the dynamics of cardiovascular event risk trajectories for patients on dialysis while conditioning on survival status via multiple time indices: (1) time since the start of dialysis, (2) time since the pivotal initial infection-related hospitalization, and (3) the patient's age at the start of dialysis. This is achieved by using a new class of generalized multiple-index varying coefficient (GM-IVC) models. The proposed GM-IVC models utilize a multiplicative structure and one-dimensional varying coefficient functions along each time and age index to capture the cardiovascular risk dynamics before and after the initial infection-related hospitalization among the dynamic cohort of survivors. We develop a two-step estimation procedure for the GM-IVC models based on local maximum likelihood. We report new insights on the dynamics of cardiovascular events risk using the United States Renal Data System database, which collects data on nearly all patients with end-stage renal disease in the United States. Finally, simulation studies assess the performance of the proposed estimation procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background End-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients exhibit an extraordinarily high annual mortality secondary to cardiac and vascular causes, particularly sudden cardiac death (SCD). Left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy is a frequent finding and constitutes an independent predictor of mortality risk in these patients. Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) are cardioprotective in heart failure patients and effectively reduce LV mass, but are considered inappropriate in patients with severe renal impairment, given their potential to cause hyperkalaemia. Recent data from small clinical studies suggest that MRAs may be safe in patients undergoing regular haemodialysis, but cardiovascular (CV) protection in these patients is unclear. We here review the literature on CV effects of MRA in dialysis patients and report the design of the Mineralocorticoid Receptor antagonists in End-stage renal Disease (MiREnDa) trial. Methods The MiREnDa trial is a prospective randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel group, multi-centre, intervention study investigating the effects of spironolactone (50 mg daily) compared with placebo in maintenance haemodialysis patients. The change in LV mass index (LVMI) as assessed by cardiac magnet resonance imaging (CMR) constitutes the primary efficacy end point. Secondary end points include changes in LV geometry and function, office and 24-h ambulatory blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmias, vascular function parameters, measures of heart failure and quality of life. Pre-dialysis potassium levels and the incidence of threatening hyperkalaemia (pre-dialysis potassium ≥6.5 mmol/L) constitute safety end points. Conclusions MiREnDa will investigate CV efficacy and safety of spironolactone in haemodialysis patients [clinical trials.gov NCT01691053]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On comparing the rates of graft failure and death among United States and Spanish kidney transplant recipients…the 10 year graft and patient survival was significantly better in the Spanish population.”Background The long-term outcomes of kidney transplantation are suboptimal because many patients lose their allografts or experience premature death. Cross-country comparisons of long-term outcomes of kidney transplantation may provide insight into factors contributing to premature graft failure and death. We evaluated the rates of late graft failure and death among US and Spanish kidney recipients. Methods This is a cohort study of US (n = 9609) and Spanish (n = 3808) patients who received a deceased donor kidney transplant in 1990, 1994, 1998 or 2002 and had a functioning allograft 1 year after transplantation with follow-up through September 2006. Ten-year overall and death-censored graft survival and 10-year overall recipient survival and death with graft function (DWGF) were estimated with multivariate Cox models. Results Among recipients alive with graft function 1 year after transplant, the 10-year graft survival was 71.3% for Spanish and 53.4% for US recipients (P < 0.001). The 10-year, death-censored graft survival was 75.6 and 76.0% for Spanish and US recipients, respectively (P = 0.73). The 10-year recipient survival was 86.2% for Spanish and 67.4% for US recipients (P < 0.001). In recipients with diabetes as the cause of ESRD, the adjusted DWGF rates at 10 years were 23.9 and 53.8 per 1000 person-years for Spanish and US recipients, respectively (P < 0.001). Among recipients whose cause of ESRD was not diabetes mellitus, the adjusted 10-year DWGF rates were 11.0 and 25.4 per 1000 person-years for Spanish and US recipients, respectively. Conclusions US kidney transplant recipients had more than twice the long-term hazard of DWGF compared with Spanish kidney transplant recipients and similar levels of death-censored graft function. Pre-transplant medical care, comorbidities, such as cardiovascular disease, and their management in each country's health system are possible explanations for the differences between the two countries. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Studies have suggested that women with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) had higher risk of sexual dysfunction than healthy women. To prospectively determine the effect of renal transplantation for ESRD on female sexual function and depression. During a 5-year period, the study included 21 sexually active women who underwent renal transplantation for ESRD at a single university hospital. After obtaining demographic characteristics, female sexual function was evaluated with a detailed 19-item questionnaire (The Female Sexual Function Index, FSFI), and depression was assessed using Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) scale. In all women, FSFI and BDI scores were compared before and after the renal transplantation surgery. The mean age of the women was 35.04 ± 9.6 years, and mean follow-up duration after renal transplantation was 27.5 ± 20.4 months. Mean total sexual function score increased from 17.57 ± 7.07 to 25.3 ± 3.28, revealing significant difference ( P = 0.001). Compared with preoperative period, sexual function domains including sexual desire ( P = 0.001), arousal ( P = 0.001), lubrication ( P = 0.003), orgasm ( P = 0.001), satisfaction ( P = 0.001), and pain ( P = 0.02) significantly improved after renal transplantation. Mean BDI score significantly decreased from 17.91 ± 8.56 to 3 ± 4.17 after renal transplantation ( P = 0.001). Successful renal transplantation may improve female sexual functions and depression. Therefore, life quality increases as sexual functions and depression improve after the renal transplantation surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Uric acid (UA) is known to play a pathogenic role in chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, its effect in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) has not yet been elucidated. We explored the prevalence of hyperuricaemia and the relationship between UA and residual renal function (RRF) in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Patients with end-stage renal disease are exposed to extreme volume shifts and thereby cardiovascular strain as a consequence of interdialytic weight gain, fluid removal during hemodialysis and also chronic fluid overload. In long-term hemodialysis patients, higher IDWG (interdialytic weight gain) is associated with poor survival and increased cardiovascular death. Patients with the lowest interdialytic fluid retention have the greatest survival. It was found that increased interdialytic volume load is associated with increased both LVMI and FGF-23 level. Objective: To evaluate correlation between hypervolemia, left ventricular hypertrophy and FGF-23 in prevalent hemodialysis patients. Patients and Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted in Ain shams university hospital and Al Agoza hospital, on 60 prevalent hemodialysis patients.Three patient died during the study. Results: FGF-23 had a positive correlation with (weight gain, (PO4) 3-, PTH, IVS, PW and LVMI). Conclusion: FGF-23 might be a marker of volume overload and LVH in ESRD patients, as it positively correlated with (weight gain, IVS, PW and LVMI). FGF-23 is a marker of bone diseases, as it positively correlated with (PO4) 3- and PTH. Volume overload has a negative impact on morbidity and mortality in ESRD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is the principal myocardial alteration in patients with ESRD due to multiple preload and afterload factors related to hemodialysis leading to left ventricular diastolic dysfunction manifested by signs and symptoms of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The use of echocardiography and tissue Doppler imaging is essential to detect diastolic dysfunction in ESRD patients undergoing hemodialysis as the prevalence of diagnosing HFpEF in ESRD patients is under-estimated. Objective: To evaluate the possible impact of renal replacement therapy in the form of regular dialysis provided to end stage renal disease patients on left ventricular diastolic function by implementing tissue doppler imaging. Patients and Methods: The study included 100 ESRD patients on regular dialysis presenting to the dialysis unit in Ain Shams University Hospitals. The inclusion criterion was end stage renal disease patients with GFR < 15 ml/min/1.73 m2 on regular dialysis for more than 6 months. Excluded patients were those above than 80 yrs old, with hemodynamic instability, arrhythmias, valvular diseases, ischemic conditions, and LV systolic dysfunction. After the hemodialysis session, ECG gated echocardiography was done applying pulsed wave Doppler on mitral valve to detect E/A ratio, continuous wave Doppler on tricuspid valve to calculate TR vmax, and tissue Doppler on lateral mitral annulus to detect e’ and E/e’ ratio. Moreover, left atrial volume index (LAVI) and other standard echocardiographic parameters were measured. Full history and clinical examination including ECG recording was done and blood samples were taken to measure hemoglobin levels. Patients were then stratified according to their diastolic dysfunction grading. Results: Seventy eight percent (78%) of the patients showed diastolic dysfunction including 46 % showed grade I diastolic dysfunction, 26 % showed grade II diastolic dysfunction and 6% showed grade III diastolic dysfunction. Hemoglobin levels showed significant negative correlation with E, E/A, E/E’, LAVI and TR Vmax (r = -0.25, -0.37, -0.29, -0.23 and -0.31 with p 0.012, <0 .001, < 0.003, 0.002 & <0 .001 respectively). Multiple regression analysis revealed smoking, DM, Hb, LVPWd, EF, E/A, LAVI and TR Vmax presented the important determinants of diastolic filling (b = -0.16, 0.15, -0.20, -0.27, -0.25, 0.16, 0.39 & 0.27 and p = 0.002, 0.045, < 0.001, 0.022, < 0.001, 0.039, < 0.001 & < 0.001 respectively). Comparing E/A ratio with E/e’ ratio sensitivities revealed E/A ratio was 28.2% while E/e’ ratio was 74.3%. This was statistically significant showing a difference between the two modalities (χ² = 33.2526 and p = < 0 .0001). Conclusion: In ESRD patients, maladaptive events leading to LVH and diastolic dysfunction occur frequently. Thus, early identification and treatment of factors involved in order to prevent this devastating process. Now it seems that TDI and E, E/A and E/E’ parameters are good instruments for the early detection of LVH and diastolic dysfunction as they are important risk factors for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in CKD. In comparison with the conventional Doppler techniques, tissue Doppler is a vital tool in diagnosing diastolic dysfunction [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bone Marrow-derived Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC)s were experimentally used in treating diabetes mellitus (DM) and its complications, particularly, diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of mortality in diabetic patients, which has been strongly associated with progression of DKD. Aim: This study was designed to explore the effect of MSCs in modulating cardiovascular risk factors that develop with DKD. Study Design: 60 adult female albino rats were allocated into three groups: control group, untreated diabetic kidney disease group (un-DKD) and MSCs treated diabetic kidney disease group (MSC-DKD). DM was induced by a single dose of Streptozotocin at a dose of 35mg/kg, then rats were sacrificed 8 weeks later. MSCDKD rats were treated by IV injection of bone marrow-derived MSCs 4 weeks after DM induction. DKD establishment was confirmed by histopathological kidney changes and elevated plasma creatinine and urea in both un-DKD and MSC-DKD rats. Methods: Blood Pressure and lipid profile were measured, and atherogenic index was calculated to assess cardiovascular risk accompanying the progression of the diabetic renal damage. Moreover, aortic reactivity studies were performed in vitro. Results: A single MSCs injection to MSC-DKD rats resulted in significant decrease in final blood glucose, mean arterial blood pressure and atherogenic index, together with a significant increase in plasma HDL level compared to untreated rats, thus minimizing cardiovascular risk factors. MSC-DKD aortae also exhibited significant enhancement of vascular reactivity parameters, particularly vasorelaxation which could partially explain the improvement of blood pressure. On the other hand, DKD didn't improve by MSCs therapy. These results conformed to tracking labelled MSCs which were found in abundance in both aortic and pancreatic tissues and absent in kidneys. Conclusion: MSCs therapy holds hope of improving cardiovascular risk and mortality for diabetic patients with diabetic Kidney disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/mL) and insufficiency (20-29 ng/mL) are common among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or undergoing dialysis. Low 25(OH)D has been associated with high bone turnover, secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT), decreased bone mineral density (BMD), renal anemia, erythropoietin hypo responsiveness and sleep disturbance in CKD and dialysis patients Methods: This cross sectional study was carried out on 100 End Stage Renal Disease patients on Maintenance Hemodialysis in the Hemodialysis unit of Ain Shams University hospital, Cairo - Egypt. Assessment of serum level of 25(OH) VIT D, and to identify if possible relation between vitamin D deficiency and other parameter like hemoglobin level, Parathyroid hormone, Calcium, Phosphorus, Iron profile, DM, HTN, medications. Results: Vitamin D deficiency is common in end stage renal disease patients on regular hemodialysis, in our study we found that 50% of patients have 25(OH) VIT D deficiency, 34% are insufficient and only 16% was sufficient. There was no significant correlation between the serum level of 25(OH) VIT D and hemoglobin level and iron profile also no significant relation between 25(OH) vitamin D and PTH, calcium, phosphorus. Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency and other disorders in calcium and phosphorus homeostasis are common in patient with end stage kidney disease on regular hemodialysis. We did not notice any significant relation between the levels of calcium, phosphorus, parathyroid hormone, serum albumin and vitamin D level. No significant relation between vitamin D level and hemoglobin level, iron profile. The National Kidney Foundation guidelines state that optimal 25(OH) D levels should be greater than 30 ng/ml. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: sclerostin, an osteocyte-derived glycoprotein acts as a soluble inhibitor of the Wnt signaling pathway and its physiological role is to reduce bone formation. The serum sclerostin levels increase with the progression of CKD. Aim of the work: in the present study, we investigated the effect of three months thrice weekly hemodiafiltration on serum sclerostin level and bone specific alkaline phosphatase in comparison with high flux dialysis in stable HD patients. Methods: prospective study was concluded upon 32 randomly selected ESRD patients from Dialysis Department in Ain Shams University Hospitals and Maadi Military Hospital. Serum sclerostin and bone specific alkaline phosphatase were measured at the start of the study (Zero months) and after 3 months of HDF dialysis between September 2017 and December 2017. Results: 32 test subjects were randomly selected had mean age 47.38 (± 18.68 years) in HDF group and 55.31 (± 7.40 years) in high flux group. 56.3% were male in HDF group, 81.3% male in high flux group. Patients in HDF group had serum sclerostin reduction ratio with mean 24.72 ± 10.34 pre-3 months and mean 30.34 ± 12.22 in post-3 months. While, serum sclerostin reduction ratio mean was 18.97 ± 7.87 in high flux group. There was a statistically significant difference between HDF group post-3months and high flux group as regard sclerostin reduction ratio (P-value: 0.015). There was no statistically significant difference between group HDF post-3 months and group high flux as regard BS-AP reduction ratio (P-value: 0.212). Conclusion: Sclerostin decreased by HDF. Yet, HDF has no effect on bone specific alkaline phosphatase in comparison to high flux hemodialysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renal replacement therapy may encourage eating disorders in some patients. Hemodialysis requires patients to attend dialysis sessions three times per week, during which time they are weighed pre- and post-treatment, so the importance of limiting `fluid weight" gains to prevent fluid overload and elevated blood pressure are constantly reinforced by the dialysis team. Patients must also follow rigorous therapeutic dietary modifications to prevent the buildup of urea and harmful waste products between treatments. This is a case report of a 30-year-old man receiving renal replacement therapy who had anorexia nervosa of the bulimic subtype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aims: Ischaemic heart disease is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and after renal transplantation. However, the optimal non-invasive test for coronary artery disease (CAD) diagnosis in this population has yet to be established. The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) and baseline plasma cardiac troponin T (cTnT) for detecting significant CAD and predicting adverse cardiac events in patients referred for renal transplantation. Methods: Coronary angiography, DSE, and baseline cTnT measurements were performed in 118 consecutive patients (mean age 52±12 years, 75 male) with ESRD (mean creatinine 608±272μmol/L) referred for renal transplantation. The mean follow-up period was 1.32±0.48 years. Significant CAD was defined as a reduction in luminal diameter >70% by visual estimation in at least one major epicardial vessel. An abnormal DSE result defined as the development of a new regional wall motion abnormality in one or more normal resting segments or a deterioration of wall motion in one or more resting hypokinetic segments. A baseline cTnT>0.1μg/L was taken as positive. Results: Significant CAD in at least one vessel was present in 35 patients (30%). The number of patients with significant 3 vessel and 2 vessel disease was 6 and 7, respectively. An abnormal DSE result was present in 36 (31%) patients. Thirty-one (26%) had cTnT>0.1μg/L. Sixty-four (54%) patients were on dialysis and 46 (39%) were diabetic. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values for DSE in detecting significant coronary artery disease were 88%, 94%, 86% and 95%, respectively. The same values for a raised cTnT were 54%, 62%, 40% and 74%, respectively. The combination of an abnormal DSE result and raised cTnT gave values of 61%, 91%, 76%, and 80%, respectively. Over the follow-up period, mortality was significantly higher in those with a raised baseline cTnT but not those with an abnormal DSE result or significant CAD. Conclusion: DSE is an accurate technique for the detection of significant CAD in renal transplant candidates. An elevated cTnT does not predict significant CAD in this population and when used in conjunction with DSE, reduces the sensitivity of the combined tests. cTnT is an important marker of prognosis in renal transplant candidates. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Data on end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients in Kuwait were collected retrospectively and prospectively starting in mid-1988. The study period covered 4½ years from 1 January 1986 to 30 June 1990. Epidemiological characteristics of ESRD patients and their disposal by dialysis and transplantation were analysed and compared with previous reports from Kuwait, neighbouring countries, Europe, and USA. A total of 647 patients received renal replacement therapy (RRT) in Kuwait during the study period. This gave an incidence rate of 72 patients per year per million of population. The prevalence rate for patients on maintenance dialysis was 80.6 per million population in mid-1988. Nearly one-fifth of total patients (19.6%) were older than 60 years of age and one-third (30.8%) were identified as ‘high risk’ category. As for Kuwaiti nationals alone on RRT 29.7% were above 60 years of age and 44.2% were high-risk patients. We have noticed a steady decline in the number of patients who accepted continuous ambulatory peritonial dialysis (CAPD) for dialytic support. Chronic tubulointerstitial disease resulting from atrophic pyelonephritis was the leading cause of ESRD amongst both Kuwaiti nationals and expatriates. Though diabetic nephropathy was only the third lead ing cause of ESRD (14.7%) in the total population, it was more frequent (21.2%) among Kuwaitis. The gross mortality rate on dialysis was 14.7%. The major causes of death were related to cardiovascular diseases (60%) and sepsis (24.2%). Our analysis showed that age of the patient at admission to dialysis contributed to overall mortality, but it was not an isolated risk factor whereas diabetic nephropathy (relative risk 1.9) and associated serious co-morbid illness/es (relative risk 30.3) were. Despite strict precautionary measures in the dialysis units and early use of erythropoietin, 68 new patients were detected to be HBsAg positive, 85% of whom remained persistently antigenaemic for more than 6 months. At follow-up 9.8% (4/41) had died of liver failure. The 50 months patient survival for patients who received unrelated kidney transplantation (abroad) was lower than in those who received live related kidneys in Kuwait. The most distressing observation was, however, the very high patient loss associated with imported cadaver kidneys transplanted in Kuwait compared to those who received cadaver kidneys harvested locally (65% versus 94.8% respectively at 16 months). [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: According to the WHO there are 185 million people infected with HCV in the world. Egypt has the highest prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the world reaching 13% equating to an estimated 12million Egyptians. HCV is one of themain causes of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. HCV can develop kidney disease because of extrahepatic manifestations of HCV or as a disease process independent of the HCV infection. In addition, hemodialysis has been a risk factor for acquiring HCV infection. The prevalence of HCV infection is high in patients with ESRD, on hemodialysis ranges from 6% to 60% in different parts of the world. Several studies show that patients on hemodialysis have an increased overall mortality risk if they have chronic HCV when compared with those on dialysis who do not have HCV. Antiviral treatment in CKD patients can be complicated because many of the agents used for anti-HCV therapy can accumulate to toxic levels in the setting of renal impairment. Treatment of HCV compensated cirrhosis with the new DAA therapy Qurevo "ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir" with ribavirin in ESRD was approved inmany countries. Aim of the study: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Qurevo/Ribavirin regimen in ESRD Egyptian patients who are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). Patients and Methods: A prospective cohort study evaluated the outcome of 12-week ombitasvir (NS5A inhibitor)/paritaprevir (NS3/4A protease inhibitor)/ritonavir with ribavirin combination therapy for 50 ESRD patients with HCV at the hepatic virology clinic at Ain Shams University hospital over a period of 15 months (from December 2016 to February 2018). The primary endpoint was sustained virologic response 12 weeks after therapy (SVR12). Results: 50 ESRD patients with a mean age of 51.4 years, range from 23-77 years were enrolled. The SVR12 rate was 96% (48/50); 2 patients had virologic failure. As regards adverse events, the most frequent was fatigue/asthenia in 44 patients (88%) and worsening anemia (Hb dropped to<10 g/dl) in 42 patients (84%). GIT upset occurred in 10 patients (20%), sleep disorders in 8 patients (16%), decreased appetite in 8 patients (16%), respiratory distress in 6 patients (12%), headache, dizziness in 6 patients(12%). Muscle spasms in 4 patients (8%). Itching(pruritis) occurred in 3 patients(6%).2 patients (4%) were non-responders to treatment and another 2 (4%) were relapsers. Death occurred in 4 patients (8%) due to myocardial infarction, pulmonary edema, severe hypotension on hemodialysis sessions, shock due to blood loss in retroperitoneal hematoma following peritoneal dialysis. Hepatic decompensation, hypersenisitivity (angioedema), teratogenicity and drug interactions did not occur in any patient (0%). Other events occurred in 11 patients (22%). They were parenchymal liver changes in ultrasound at the end of therapy after being normal before therapy (in 3 patients), thrombocytopenia, increased alkaline phosphatase, hiccough, deterioration of hypertension, urinary tract infection, lower limb cellulitis, vaginal bleeding, chest infection(in 1 patient each). SVR12 was achieved in 100% of patients who had to stop or modify ribavirin dose;this means that Ribavirin absence didn't affect the sustained viral response in these patients. Conclusion: Our results confirm the efficacy of Qurevo "ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir" with Ribavirin combination therapy in ESRD patients with HCV infection, with anemia as the most frequent adverse event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with End Stage Renal Disease are more susceptible to develop Peripheral Arterial Disease. so, screening is helpful for early diagnosis. Objectives: The aim of this study is to screen and calculate the prevalence of asymptomatic patients on regular hemodialysis for presence of PAD. Aim of Study: The aim of this study is to screen and calculate the prevalence of asymptomatic patients on regular hemodialysis for presence of PAD. Patients and Methods: The study included 100 asymptomatic patients on regular hemodialysis and below 60 years old to be screened for presence of PAD. Patients who refused the test, above 60 years old, or diabetic have been excluded from the study. All selected patients have been subjected to complete history taking, full clinical examination including extremities examination, Lab workup including; CBC, liver function test, kidney function test, A1C level, lipid profile, Resting 12 lead ECG, Echocardiography to assess systolic function, valvular disease, and resting SWMA, and ABI assessment using the Doppler. Patients then were divided into two groups; control group who has negative PAD with ABI > 0.9 and study group who has PAD with ABI ≤ 0.9. Results: It was found that the prevalence of PAD among ESRD patients is 26%. Regarding the laterality; 21% had bilateral PAD and the rest 5% had unilateral disease. The results showed that females had statistically significant higher risk of developing PAD that males. 55% of patients were females and the other 45% were males. 36.4% of females studied had positive ABI but only 13.3% of studied males found positive for PAD. The p value was 0.017. The study showed also that A1C level in patients who have no diabetes carries statistically significant results. The mean A1C level for the study group was 5.56 ± 0.70 and the control group was 4.92 ± 0.73. The p value was 0.000. The A1C level cut off value was > 5.3. This means that patients who have A1C > 5.3 should be paid more attention and be screened because they have higher risk to develop PAD. Conclusion: Renal impairment is an important risk factor for developing PAD in absence of traditional risk factors such as DM, hypertension, or dyslipidemia. Prevalence of PAD was 26% in our study. ABI is a simple non-invasive modality of screening for PAD. Females are at higher risk to develop PAD than males by ~ 2.7 fold. Although diabetes is absent, A1C level > 5.3 is significantly correlating with the risk of PAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under normal conditions, inflammation is a protective and physiological response to various harmful stimuli. However, in several chronic debilitating disorders, such as chronic kidney disease, inflammation becomes maladaptive, uncontrolled and persistent. Systemic persistent inflammation has, for almost 20 years, been recognized as a major contributor to the uraemic phenotype (such as cardiovascular disease, protein energy wasting, depression, osteoporosis and frailty), and a predictor of cardiovascular and total mortality. Since inflammation is mechanistically related to several ageing processes (inflammageing), it may be a major driver of a progeric phenotype in the uraemic milieu. Inflammation is likely the consequence of a multifactorial aetiology and interacts with a number of factors that emerge when uraemic toxins accumulate. Beside interventions aiming to decrease the production of inflammatory molecules in the uraemic milieu, novel strategies to increase the removal of large middle molecules, such as expanded haemodialysis, may be an opportunity to decrease the inflammatory allostatic load associated with retention of middle molecular weight uraemic toxins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a relative shortage of organs limits transplantation rates in many countries, the number of patients on dialysis is increasing. Nephrologists in specialist centres supervise their dialysis, but increasingly in the context of acute medical emergencies, such patients present to district general hospitals. Experience in managing patients on dialysis varies among institutions. This review aims to provide a practical guide to aid general physicians involved in the delivery of hospital care, by outlining the principles of dialysis (haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis) and examining relevant medical issues specific to dialysis patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2005, the incidence of renal replacement therapy (RRT) in the United Kingdom was 110 per million of the population (pmp) using the day 0 definition and 103 pmp using the day 90 definition.Relative to the 42 countries reporting data to the USRDS, the day 0 and day 90 rates for RRT incidence in the UK are the 32nd and 35th lowest, respectively. However, the overall incidence for the UK masks higher rates in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland (123, 129 and 140 pmp, respectively).Of the six countries with RRT incidence rates comparable with those in the UK (Australia, Finland, Malaysia, New Zealand, Norway and the Netherlands) three had relatively high rates for the age band 20–44, and two had relatively high rates for the age band 45–60.The proportion of incident patients with diabetes as the cause of established renal failure also varied considerably among these six comparator countries from 16% to 40% but rates of peritoneal dialysis utilization were comparable with that in the UK and generally higher than in countries with higher rates of RRT incidence.When transplantation rates were considered alongside prevalence rates for RRT, the UK position appeared relatively high at 46% (11th out of 37 countries), although still considerably lower than in Norway and the Netherlands (72 and 54%, respectively).Although variation in RRT incidence rate exists within the four countries of the UK, the overall RRT incidence, reported for the first time this year, appears similar to that observed in a number of demographically similar countries around the world.Examining the UK alongside the six comparator countries, different patterns of RRT incidence were observed across the age bands and variation in the RRT incidence secondary to diabetes mellitus raised interesting questions.The higher rates of renal transplantation achieved in several of the comparator countries also justifies further analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This analysis presents the survival of patients starting renal replacement therapy (RRT) in UK renal units (‘centres’), and includes an analysis of survival by centre. Data from 59 of the 70 UK centres are included. This is the first year that UK centre anonymity has been removed from analysis of patient survival by centre. Survival after adjustment for comorbidity is also reported for the first time although this analysis is restricted to those centres returning data on comorbidity in at least 85% of incident patients.The importance of adjusting for comorbidity can be seen in that for one centre, after adjustment of survival for age and diagnosis, the adjusted 1 year after 90 day survival was 84.6%. After adjusting to the average comorbidity present across centres, survival increased to 90.4%. Improved comorbidity data returns by renal units may require investment in informatics staff and creating structural process at renal unit level for clinicians to support these data returns.From the date of first RRT, the 1 year survival of all patients (unadjusted for age) is 79%. From the 90th day of RRT (to allow comparison with other countries’ 1 year survival), the 1 year survival is 83%. The age adjusted (60 years) survival for the 1 year after 90 day period is 86%. There is a high death rate in the first 90 days on RRT (6% of all patients starting RRT), a period not included in reports by many registries and other studies.The 5 year survival (including deaths within the first 90 days) rates are 58, 53, 44, 28, 19 and 12%, respectively for patients aged 18–34, 35–44, 45–54, 55–64, 65–74 and >75 years.The ‘vintage effect’ of increasing hazard of death with length of time on RRT, prominent in data from the US, is only noted in older age groups (65–75 and 75+ years) at 5–6 years after starting RRT.Six centres had a figure for the 1 year after 90 day survival which was outside 2 SDs from the mean for the UK: in three cases this was better survival, and in three, poorer survival, than expected. Poor reporting by renal units of patient comorbidity makes interpretation of these apparent differences in patient survival between centres difficult and a relationship to clinical performance cannot yet be inferred. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the 2006 Vascular Access Survey, 51% of all patients commenced renal replacement therapy (RRT) using definitive access. Of patients commencing on haemodialysis HD, 37% commenced with definitive access (31% in the 2005 survey).Of those known to the renal units for a year or more, only half started HD with definitive access. Around 4% of patients currently receiving HD were in-patients. Around 30% of staphylococcal line infections were methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which was similar to the 2005 survey.At 6 months after starting RRT, 76% of live patients were using definitive access [defined as the use of peritoneal dialysis (PD), transplant, arteriovenous fistula (AVF) or arteriovenous graft (AVG)] and at 12 months it was 80%.Of the HD patients starting RRT in April 2005, 65% started using venous catheters, at 6 months this had fallen to 35% and at 12 months to 30%. The use of non-tunnelled lines was <1% by 6 months.The proportion on PD had fallen slightly at 12 months (from 20% to 16%) by which time 11% had received a transplant, 1% had recovered and 18% had died.Data returns for the 2006 survey were returned from 37/74 renal units compared with returns from 62 units in the 2005 survey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The total number of patients active on the transplant waiting list (adult and paediatric) on 31 December 2005 was 5736, an 8% increase from the previous year. On 31 December 2005, 45.7% of prevalent adult RRT patients in the UK, had a functioning renal transplant which equated to 19 074 patients. During 2005, the death rate in prevalent transplant patients was 2.7 per 100 patient years. An additional 3.1% of all prevalent transplants failed with patients returning to dialysis.During 2005, deceased heart beating donor numbers decreased by 18% compared to 2004. In comparison, non-heart beating donors and living kidney donors increased by 35% and 17%, respectively, in 2005. The proportion of renal transplants performed from deceased heart beating donors fell from 68% in 2004 to 60% in 2005. There is wide variation in prevalence per million population (pmp) of transplanted patients resident in each local authority area across the United Kingdom. Total 11.4% of incident transplants in 2005 were due to patients with diabetes. The median eGFR was 46.1 ml/min/1.73 m2, with 18% of prevalent transplant recipients having an eGFR <30 ml/min/1.73 m2. The median Hb in prevalent transplant recipients was 12.9 g/dl, with 10% of patients having an Hb <10 g/dl. The median systolic and diastolic BP was 136 and 79 mmHg, respectively, with only 25% of patients within guidelines.Transplant function analysed by CKD stages 1–2 (eGFR < 60), 3 (eGFR 30–59), 4 (eGFR 15–29) and 5 (eGFR < 15), shows that these categories account for 24%, 59%, 15% and 2.5% of patients, respectively. Haemoglobin values fall with decreasing eGFR such that of the 2.5% of transplant patients with eGFR <15 ml/min, 27% had an Hb <10 g/dl and 51% <11 g/dl. Control of iPTH was poor in transplant recipients in CKD stages 4 and 5, with 22% and 50% of patients, respectively, having a PTH > 32 pmol/l (=300 ng/l). Patients with failing transplants are less likely to achieve RA targets of key biochemical variables when compared to patients on dialysis. There is still wide variability in the completeness of data returns from individual units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forty-one percent of UK patients commence RRT with an Hb <10.0 g/dl. The mean Hb at commencement of RRT is 10.3 g/dl. Eighty-five percent of patients on dialysis in the UK have an Hb ≥ 10.0 g/dl by 6 months after commencement of RRT.The median Hb on haemodialysis in the UK is 11.8 g/dl with an IQR of 10.7–12.8 g/dl. Eighty-six percent of haemodialysis patients in the UK have a Hb ≥ 10.0 g/dl. The median Hb on peritoneal dialysis in the UK is 12.0 g/dl with an IQR of 11.0–12.9 g/dl. Ninety percent of peritoneal dialysis patients in the UK have an Hb ≥ 10.0 g/dl.In the UK, 49% of patients on PD and 48% of patients on haemodialysis have an Hb between 10.5–12.5 g/dl.The median ferritin in UK haemodialysis patients is 413 μg/l (IQR 262–623), 95% of UK haemodialysis patients have a ferritin ≥100 μg/l.The median ferritin in UK PD patients is 256 μg/l (IQR 147–421), 86% of UK peritoneal dialysis patients have a ferritin ≥ 100 μg/l.A higher proportion of HD patients than PD patients receive ESA therapy (88% vs 76%). The ESA dose is higher for HD than PD patients (9204 vs 6080 IU/week). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the universal availability of erythropoietin and intravenous iron, 14% of transplant patients and 30% of dialysis patients have a haemoglobin (Hb) <10.5 g/dl. Only 11% of anaemic transplant patients were receiving erythropoietin.There was a linear relationship between estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and Hb with the risk of anaemia occurring at a much higher eGFR than would be expected in the chronic kidney disease (CKD) population.There was also a significant association between the use of mycophenolate and anaemia. Around 95% of dialysis patients were receiving erythropoietin and 47% intravenous iron.It is speculated that raising the target Hb for this population to 13 g/dl could shift the whole distribution curve to the left, reducing the proportion with anaemia. Doing this would require careful monitoring to steepen the distribution curve and limit the upper tail if complications of high haematocrits are to be avoided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Short stature is a major problem in paediatric ERF patients with 29% of transplant patients and 41% of dialysis patients below the second percentile for height. Only 6.5% of transplant patients and 15.5% of dialysis patients are receiving rhGH. There is no significant difference in the height distribution of patients commencing RRT and those who have had a functioning allograft for at least 1 year. In patients with at least 2 years between presentation and RRT, there is a significant fall in height Z score. This overall statistic is strongly influenced by the very poor growth of patients with glomerular disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incidence and prevalence of ERF in children in the UK are relatively static at 8.0 and 47.7 per million population under the age of 15 years, respectively.The prevalence of ERF in children from the South Asian community is almost three times that of the White population whilst the incidence is over three times that of the White population and similar to the increase seen in the adult population. The high incidence and prevalence are related to the high incidence of inherited diseases which cause ERF in the South Asian community.ERF in children is more common in males than females (male to female ratio 1.54:1). This is due to a preponderance of males with renal dysplasia and obstructive uropathy causing ERF. For the South Asian patients, the gender ratio is 1:1 as the inherited diseases are mainly autosomal recessive.Renal dysplasia is the single most common cause of ERF in childhood, followed closely by glomerular disorders and then obstructive uropathy.The majority of prevalent paediatric ERF patients (76%) have a renal allograft. Of these, 28% are from living donations.The proportion of patients from ethnic minority groups with a functioning allograft is significantly smaller than that in the White population (P < 0.0001). Despite this, the rate of living related donation is no higher in the ethnic minority population.In prevalent patients PD is twice as commonly used as HD with the majority managed with automated PD. For patients at one year from starting RRT, 49% are on PD, 10% on HD and 41% have a transplant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many renal units still fail to return blood pressure data to the Renal Registry. In England, Northern Ireland and Wales, the percentage of HD patients achieving the combined blood pressure standard (<140/90 pre-dialysis) averages 43% (inter unit range 16–60%) and post-dialysis (<130/80) average 48% (range 22–66%). On average 27% (range 12–48%) of PD patients achieve the standard of <130/80 and 26% of renal transplant patients (range 16–40%).Over the last 8 years there has been no significant change in systolic or diastolic blood pressure achievement.Better comorbidity data returns are required by the Registry to perform blood pressure survival analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary data are provided for the whole United Kingdom. There were 41 776 adult patients alive on renal replacement therapy (RRT) in the UK at the end of 2005, a prevalence for adults of 694 pmp. Addition of 748 children under the age of 18 on RRT gives a total prevalence of 706 pmp. The more detailed analysis includes data on 37 534 patients from 65 of the 70 units which returned detailed data to the Registry: all in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, and 45 of the 50 units in England. The annual increase in prevalence in the 38 renal units participating in the Registry since 2000 was 5.0%. There is substantial variation in the crude Local Authority area prevalence from 299 pmp to 1275 pmp.In general, areas with large ethnic minority populations had high standardized prevalence ratios (SPR). Nevertheless several Local Authority areas in South Wales (Methyr Tydfil, Swansea and Rhondda/Cynon/Taff) had a higher SPR than would be predicted from the local ethnic mix. Another group in North West England (Bury, Rochdale, Oldham and Salford), had a lower SPR than expected from the local ethnic mix. The median age of prevalent patients on RRT was 56.6 years, that of patients on HD 64.5 years, PD 59.2 years and transplanted patients 49.7 years. The median vintage of the whole RRT population was 5.1 years: that of transplanted patients was 9.8 years, HD patients 2.8 years and PD patients 2.1 years. The maximal prevalence rate (SPR) occurred in men (2270 pmp) in the 75–79-year age band and women (1144 pmp) in the 65–74-year age band.Of RRT patients in the UK, 45% had a transplant, 41.7% were on centre-based haemodialysis and 12% on peritoneal dialysis. The proportion of patients on home haemodialysis remained very small (1.2%) in spite of the recent NICE guidelines. The haemodialysis population is continuing to expand, mainly through growth in the proportion of patients undergoing dialysis in satellite units. The peritoneal dialysis population is continuing to contract in spite of the small but progressive rise in automated PD.The most common identifiable diagnosis in those under 65 was glomerulonephritis (18.0%) and in those over 65 it was diabetes (13.4%).One-year survival rates of prevalent patients in the different centres contributing to the UK Renal Registry are presented. The centres agreed to remove anonymity. There is no evidence of any significant differences in survival of prevalent patients between UK centres.The one-year survival of prevalent dialysis patients increased significantly from 1998 to 2004 in England (83.3% to 87.1% P = 0.0001 for linear trend), Scotland (84.0% to 87.0% P = 0.023 for linear trend) and Wales (83.4% to 86.1% P = 0.027 for linear trend). The test for non-linearity in this trend (indicating that there has been a large increase which is now tailing off) was significant for England and Wales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The UK Renal Registry is part of the UK Renal Association and provides independent audit and analysis of renal replacement therapy in the UK. The Registry is funded directly by participating renal units through an annual fee per patient registered.The Registry is now collecting data on incidence and prevalence from 100% of UK renal units, with the five remaining non-linked sites in England providing summary data.Maintaining and enhancing Registry functionality will be an important touchstone for the Connecting for Health initiative. Collaboration with other formal agencies also promises an exciting prospect for future development. After a long proving period, the means, methods and roles have come together to complete an effective adjunct to clinical activity, planning, research and the performance of the renal community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comorbidity returns have continued to improve, albeit slowly, with centres running Mediqal software having the highest rates of completeness.Diabetes as a primary renal diagnosis accounted for 20% of those starting RRT, but a further 7% had diabetes present as a comorbid condition. The incidence of smoking remained high at 17% of diabetic patients, which was similar to that found in non-diabetics.Twelve percent of the patients starting RRT had a previous myocardial infarction (MI) and 31% of those aged over 65 years starting RRT had ischaemic heart disease (IHD).Patients starting on peritoneal dialysis (PD) were on average 9 years younger than those on haemodialysis (HD) and had fewer comorbidities present.Patients starting RRT without any comorbidity present had a lower median estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) than those with comorbid conditions.Patients with a previous MI or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), started RRT with slightly higher mean haemoglobin than those without comorbid conditions or other comorbid conditions.On univariate survival analysis, diabetes was not associated with an increased risk of death amongst patients aged over 65 years, possibly due to its close association with other comorbidities in this age group.In the multivariate survival analysis, the presence of ischaemic/neuropathic ulcers was the predictor of worst survival, followed by malignancy, previous MI and age per 10 year increment.Smoking was less common in both South Asian and black patients than whites (7 vs 17%) starting RRT. Twenty-three percent of both South Asian and white patients started RRT with IHD compared with only 12% of Black patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]