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A woman in her 60s with a history of lower extremity vascular disease presented with extreme pain and wounds in her legs which had kept her from walking for several weeks. The patient’s pain became intolerable throughout her hospital stay despite multiple surgical revascularisations. Biopsy of the patient’s calf wounds revealed evidence of calciphylaxis, a diagnosis which corresponds with this patient’s extreme pain. Our patient had no history of end-stage renal disease.

Abstrect Presentation : 76-year-old female with hypertension, diabetes, and end stage renal disease on hemodialysis was sent to the emergency department for complaining of neck and jaw pain associated with hypotension during dialysis. Her electrocardiogram is shown in figure 1. Clearly, biphasic T waves can be seen in V2-V3. These T wave changes were not seen in her last EKG. (figure 2). She was asymptomatic in the emergency department and her troponins were negative. Her electrolytes were also within normal limits with normal vital signs. Her cardiovascular exam was unremarkable. Assessment : The patient remained asymptomatic in the emergency room with persistent negative troponins. However, the appearance of pericardial biphasic T waves in V2 and V3 seen on her presenting EKG was consistent with Type A Wellen's syndrome EKG (or initially described by Dr. Gerson as inverted U waves). Even though, she had no chest pain and was hemodynamically stable, the classic appearance of Wellen's syndrome EKG is of major concern needing immediate diagnosis and treatment. Diagnosis : Patients presenting with Wellen's syndrome EKGs are at a very high risk for anterior myocardial infarction requiring an invasive work up regardless of their hemodynamic stability or level of cardiac enzymes. They have usually high-grade proximal left anterior descending or left main coronary artery disease. Management : As she was at a very high risk for myocardial infarction based on her EKG, she was taken to the cardiac catheterization laboratory despite remaining asymptomatic in the emergency department and having normal cardiac enzymes. Her coronary angiogram showed severe three vessel coronary artery disease with involvement of her proximal left anterior descending artery as suspected (figure 3). She underwent successful coronary artery bypass grafting. After her surgery, she did well and did not experience any further episodes of hypotension or jaw pain during her dialysis.

Calciphylaxis is a deadly, painful disease with a 1-year mortality of up to 50%. The disease is commonly associated with patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), but it can manifest in non-uremic patients as well. In patients who are undergoing dialysis, the incidence of calciphylaxis can range from 0.04% to 4%. The progressive arterial calcification seen in calciphylaxis can affect multiple body organs, including the skin, brain, lungs, and muscle. In cutaneous calciphylaxis, painful and non-healing nodules, plaques, and ulcers may appear, increasing morbidity for patients. Diagnosis can be difficult, and the condition can clinically appear similar to other dermatological diseases, especially in non-uremic patients. Currently, skin biopsy with histological analysis is the most reliable method to help diagnose the condition. In certain cases, the use of medical imaging may be helpful. Treatment of pain in this condition can be difficult and should be multimodal and include wound care as well as modification of risk factors. Analgesic options include opioids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as well as analgesic options that are targeted for specific patients. There are currently multiple clinical trials underway that are studying targeted therapies for this condition.

Background: Uremic pruritus (UP) and restless legs syndrome (RLS) are highly prevalent complaints among patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing chronic dialysis. These chronic troublesome symptoms lead to a significant decrease in quality of life (QOL) and increase in mortality rate. Despite their distressing characteristics, these symptoms usually remain under-recognized by healthcare providers. Therefore, careful history intake, and stepwise treatment are essential. Numerous pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments have been demonstrated to help in controlling these 2 conditions. Summary: In this review, we discuss the latest findings regarding UP and RLS among ESRD patients on maintenance dialysis. We also examine different treatment options in this group of patients. The majority of these patients do not have the opportunity to receive a kidney transplant and need other treatments for these burdensome symptoms in order to improve their QOL and prognosis. Key Messages: UP and RLS are common but underdiagnosed conditions in ESRD patients on maintenance dialysis that are related to a decline in patients’ QOL and poor prognosis. The pathophysiology of these conditions remains not well understood. Therefore, controversies still exist on treatment options. Treating these conditions provides an opportunity to improve the health-related QOL and outcomes of dialysis patients.

Background Chronic kidney disease is considered as a global health problem. Hemodialysis (HD), following renal transplantation, is the most common form of renal replacement therapy. However, HD may impact the quality of life (QOL). Pain is a frequent complaint among this population that also affects their QOL. The purposes of this study were to assess pain and QOL among end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients on HD and to examine their association. Methods This was a multicenter, cross-sectional study that occurred in Palestine between August and November 2018. Brief Pain Inventory and European Quality of Life scale 5 dimensions (EQ-5D) scale, including its European Quality of Life visual analogue scale (EQ-VAS) component, were used to assess pain and QOL, respectively. Results A total of 300 participants were included in the final study. The average age of the subjects was 54 ± 16 years. Their median EQ-5D score was 0.68 [0.54–0.88], whereas their median EQ-VAS score was 60 [40–75]. A statistically significant association of pain severity score with EQ-5D score was found (r = − 0.783, p p p p p p = 0.003), and those with lower pain interference scores (p Conclusions Pain has a significant negative impact on QOL in ESRD patients undergoing HD. The subgroups that were at higher risk included elderly patients, females, those with higher BMI, those without a formal education, those unemployed, those living with low monthly income, smokers, those who have multiple comorbidities, and patients with longer dialysis vintage. Our findings provide reliable data for educators and clinicians working with HD patients.

Background Calciphylaxis is a rare condition usually seen in patients with end-stage renal disease. Pain is a hallmark of this condition and can be extremely difficult to control. Anecdotal data suggests that pain management in calciphylaxis is challenging with variable approaches across the United Kingdom (UK) and internationally. A knowledge and practice survey was conducted to establish current practice in the management of pain in patients with calciphylaxis, in the UK. Based on the results and clinical experience the authors suggest a clinical practice guideline. Methods An online questionnaire was circulated among physicians (renal and palliative care) involved in the management of pain in calciphylaxis. The questionnaire included a mix of open-ended questions and questions with drop down options. Results One hundred and six clinicians responded to the survey of which 60 (57%) respondents were from palliative medicine; the remaining 46 (43%) were from renal medicine. 31 (30%) respondents across both specialties had not encountered any patients with a diagnosis of calciphylaxis (renal-2, palliative care-29). A referral to the palliative care team was undertaken by 18% of renal physicians, 32% referred to the pain team and 50% referred to both. Only 3% of the palliative medicine respondents indicated that they had received a referral from the renal team at the time of diagnosis. Opioids were the preferred initial drug of choice for the management of all types of pain. Paracetamol was universally selected as the preferred first-choice adjuvant agent for management of all types of pain. The importance of advance care planning was highlighted with 72% undertaking advanced care planning discussions often or most of the time. Conclusion There was wide variation in the current practice of pain management in patients with calciphylaxis, with variation between renal specialists and palliative care specialists. Referral to specialists in pain management is not universal despite the severe nature of the pain experienced by patients with calciphylaxis. The data generated has facilitated the development of a clinical practice guideline to support complex pain management in a group of patients with multiple comorbidities.

Background. Opioid use is common in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. However, safety of individual opioids and concomitant benzodiazepine use has not been studied. Objective. To study the epidemiology of opioid and concomitant benzodiazepine use in ESRD population. To study the clinical safety profile of individual opioids in patients on hemodialysis. Design. Retrospective analysis of the U.S. Renal Data System. A comprehensive review of the current literature was performed to update currently used opioid safety classification. Participants. ESRD patients ≥18 years on hemodialysis who were enrolled in Medicare A and B and Part D between 2006 and 2012, excluding those with malignancy. Main Measures. Hospital admission with diagnosis of prescription opioid overdose within 30, 60, and 90 days of prescription; death due to opioid overdose. Results. Annually, the percentage of patients prescribed any opioid was 52.2%. Overall trend has been increasing except for a small dip in 2011, despite which the admissions due to opioid overdose have been rising. 30% of those who got a prescription for opioids also got a benzodiazepine prescription. 56.5% of these patients received both prescriptions within a week of each other. Benzodiazepine use increased the odds of being on opioids by 3.27 (CI 3.21–3.32) and increased the odds of hospitalization by 50%. Opioids considered safe such as fentanyl and methadone were associated with 3 and 6 folds higher odds of hospitalization within 30 days of prescription. Hydrocodone had the lowest odds ratio (1.9, CI 1.8–2.0). Conclusions. Concurrent benzodiazepine use is common and associated with higher risk of hospitalization due to opioid overdose. Possible opioid-associated hospital admission rate is 4-5 times bigger in ESRD population than general population. Current safety classification of opioids in these patients is misleading, and even drugs considered safe based on pharmacokinetic data are associated with moderate to very high risk of hospitalization. We propose a risk-stratified classification of opioids and suggest starting to use them in all ESRD patients.

A retrospective study was conducted to evaluate the symptoms prevalence and interventions initiated in the last 2 weeks of life, health care service utilization, and causes of death of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD under a renal palliative care (RPC) program. A total of 335 RPC patients were included, of which 226 patients died during the study period. The 5 most prevalent symptoms were dyspnea (63.7%), fatigue (51.8%), edema (48.2%), pain (44.2%), and anorexia (38.1%); and the 5 most prevalent interventions initiated were oxygen (69.5%), parenteral infusion (67.3%), antibiotics (53.5%), bladder catheterization (44.7%), and analgesic (39.8%) in the last 2 weeks of life. Each patient received 3.5 ± 4.4 outpatient clinic visit, 3.4 ± 10.3 home care visits, and 3.1 ± 2.7 hospital admissions. Besides ESRD (51.8%), the most common causes of death were cardiovascular events (18.6%) and infection (17.2%).

Tonci Brkovic,1 Eliana Burilovic,2 Livia Puljak3 1Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, 2Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Split, 3Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Laboratory for Pain Research, University of Split School of Medicine, Split, Croatia Objectives: Understanding the epidemiology of pain in patients on hemodialysis (HD) is crucial for further improvement in managing pain. The aim of this study was to systematically review available evidence on the prevalence and severity of pain in adult end-stage renal disease patients on chronic intermittent HD. Materials and methods: We carried out a systematic review of the literature and developed a comprehensive search strategy based on search terms on pain and HD. We searched the databases MEDLINE, Scopus, PsycINFO, and CINAHL from the earliest date of each database to July 24, 2014. Manuscripts in all languages were taken into consideration. Two authors performed each step independently, and all disagreements were resolved after discussion with the third author. The quality of studies was estimated using the STROBE checklist and Cochrane risk-of-bias tool.Results: We included 52 studies with 6,917 participants. The prevalence of acute and chronic pain in HD patients was up to 82% and 92%, respectively. A considerable number of patients suffered from severe pain. Various locations and causes of pain were described, with most of the studies reporting pain in general, pain related to arteriovenous access, headache, and musculoskeletal pain.Conclusion: The findings of this systematic review indicate high prevalence of pain in HD patients and considerable gaps and limitations in the available evidence. Pain in this population should be recognized as a considerable health concern, and the nephrology community should promote pain management in HD patients as a clinical and research priority to improve patients’ quality of life and pain-related disability. Keywords: pain, hemodialysis, prevalence, intensity, epidemiology

Context The international cohort of hemodialysis patients is aging and increasing in number. Nephrologists have a therapeutic relationship with their patients that may span decades. Often overlooked components of chronic disease management include symptom control and assessment of health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Objectives This study describes the symptom profile of a large cohort of patients with end-stage renal disease on hemodialysis in England and Ireland and evaluates how symptom burden and other factors influence quality-of-life scores. Methods A prospective cross-sectional observational study of hemodialysis patients was conducted in Ireland and England during 2011 and 2012. Two validated clinical tools were used to determine HRQoL and symptom burden. Demographic and clinical data were examined, and regression analysis was used to determine associations with HRQoL scores. Results A total of 893 patients on hemodialysis (mean [SD] age 64 [16] years) had a high symptom burden and poor HRQoL compared with population norms. Specifically, 64% of patients reported pain (95% confidence interval 61%–67%) and 79% reported weakness (95% confidence interval 75%–81%). A total of 43 percent of patients reported between six and 10 symptoms in the week preceding the survey. HRQoL was significantly and independently associated with poor mobility and pain and remained significant after adjusting for variations in clinical characteristics. Being listed on a transplant wait-list register was positively associated with HRQoL. Conclusion These findings illustrate the high symptom burden and poor HRQoL of the hemodialysis population. Emphasis during clinical reviews on pain assessment and on assessing mobility plus interventions, such as pain management and physiotherapy/occupational therapy, are practical ways for renal teams to help improve patients' quality of life.

An important dimension that influences the quality of life of hemodialysis patients is the pain they experience. Quality of life and self-efficacy in pain can play an important role in chronic kidney disease and treatment outcomes. The purpose of the study was to examine self-efficacy in pain and quality of life among patients with end stage renal disease undergoing hemodialysis. Between April 2013 and June 2013, 224 hemodialysis patients completed the Missoula-VITAS Quality of Life Index-15 and the Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire. The study was conducted in four dialysis units in hospitals of the Peloponnese region. Sociodemographic data of patients and their individual medical history were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 19. The more effective the self-efficacy in pain, the lower the quality of life enjoyed by hemodialysis patients. The majority of respondents described the overall quality of life as "moderate," while the self-efficacy in pain depended on comorbidity or complications that accompany the process of hemodialysis. The findings of this study can be used in the development and improvement of health services for the management of patients. Healthcare professionals should understand the concerns and treat the symptoms of patients that affect quality of life, providing thereby holistic health care.

Older adults with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are a rapidly growing group of seriously ill patients. Yet, despite a mortality rate almost twice that of cancer, less is known about the impact of ESRD on patients' end-of-life experience.To compare the end-of-life experience of older adults who died of ESRD vs. cancer.We used data from the Health and Retirement Study, a nationally representative survey of older adults. Our sample included 1883 Health and Retirement Study participants who died of cancer or ESRD between 2000 and 2010 and their family respondents. We compared advance care planning, treatment intensity, and symptoms between the two groups and used propensity score weighting to adjust for differences by diagnosis.Among propensity-weighted cohorts, older adults with ESRD, compared with similar patients with cancer, were less likely to have end-of-life instructions (adjusted proportions 38.5% vs. 49.7%; P = 0.005) and were more likely to die in the hospital (53.5% vs. 29.0%; P 0.001) and to use the intensive care unit in the last two years of life (57.1% vs. 37.0%; P 0.001). Decedents with ESRD and cancer had similarly high rates of moderate or severe pain (53.7% vs. 57.8%; P = 0.34) and all other symptoms.Older adults dying of ESRD had lower rates of advance care planning and higher treatment intensity near the end of life than similar patients dying of cancer; both groups had similarly high rates of symptoms. Efforts are needed to make treatment more supportive and alleviate suffering for older adults with ESRD and their families near the end of life.

This questionnaire-based study included 69 patients from the Republic of Guinea with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and was conducted over 12 months. The factors that affected their quality of life (QoL) were determined. The included ESRD patients had an estimated creatinine clearance (CCr) of 4, P = 0.01). Good QoL was associated with younger age, fewer comorbidities, less severe physical pain, and fewer physical or social limitations. QoL could be increased by improving comorbidity treatments, giving more effective pain control, and providing more assistance for social and physical limitations.

The World Health Organization, one of the leading authorities on pain management, stressed the need for further guidelines to help manage pain in patients with chronic disease. In light of the impact of pain on morbidity and quality of life, this article summarizes current knowledge about pain experienced by older adults in 3 advanced non-cancer-related chronic diseases (ie, congestive heart failure, end-stage renal disease, and stroke) in which pain is common but not typically a primary focus of disease management. This article examines the data on the prevalence of pain, co-occurring symptoms, and challenges in managing pain in these conditions.

Cyst proliferation in patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease is associated with renal failure, hypertension and pain. We examined the long-term impact of laparoscopic cyst decortication on renal function, hypertension and pain control in patients with adult dominant polycystic kidney disease presenting with refractory pain.Between 1994 and 2003, 37 patients with adult dominant polycystic kidney disease underwent laparoscopic cyst decortication at Barnes-Jewish Hospital. A total of 19 patients (4 male, 15 female) with at least 3-year followup were included in the study. Renal function was evaluated using the CKD-EPI (Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration) estimated glomerular filtration rate formula. End stage renal disease was defined as progression to transplant, dialysis or stage 5 chronic kidney disease. Hypertension was evaluated using the antihypertensive therapeutic index. Pain assessment was based primarily on a telephone questionnaire.At a mean followup of 10.9 years (range 6.4 to 16.9), 67% of evaluable patients reported more than 50% improvement in pain. Ten patients had progression to end stage renal disease--3 dialysis, 6 transplant, and 1 chronic kidney disease stage 5. Two patients had stage 5 chronic kidney disease at initial presentation. A comparison of preoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate between patients with and those without end stage renal disease revealed a lower preoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate in the former group (43.4 vs 75.4 ml/minute/1.73 m(2), p = 0.01). Of the patients 53% had an improved or stable antihypertensive therapeutic index at last followup, although no improvement in mean overall antihypertensive therapeutic index was noted (4.7 pre-laparoscopic cyst decortications vs 7.0 post-laparoscopic cyst decortications, p = 0.28).Durable pain relief but not hypertension control was seen at 10-year followup. Preoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate is a strong predictor of post-laparoscopic cyst decortication progression to end stage renal disease. A cautious approach with laparoscopic cyst decortication should be taken in patients with poor preoperative renal function.

Chronic pain is a common and debilitating symptom experienced in the context of numerous other physical and emotional symptoms by many patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Management of pain with opioids in CKD can be problematic given the prominence of adverse effects of opioids in CKD, which may exacerbate symptoms, such as nausea, anorexia, pruritus, and insomnia, all of which impact negatively on patients' health-related quality of life. Novel therapeutic approaches for pain and symptom management in CKD are required. Recent research in the area of cannabinoids (CBs) is legitimizing the use of cannabis-based medicine. In this review, we describe the symptom burden borne by patients with CKD and review some of the key basic science and clinical literature to evaluate the potential use of CBs for the management of overall symptom burden in CKD.

A growing body of literature has demonstrated that chronic pain is common for patients with end- stage renal disease (ESRD), is typically moderate or severe, and impacts virtually every aspect of health-related quality of life. Unfortunately, there is a lack of clinical and research focus in this area in nephrology and pain in ESRD is undertreated. This paper reviews the epidemiology of chronic pain in ESRD, discusses basic principles of pain assessment and management, and highlights some of the challenges in pain management in ESRD with the hope of guiding health professionals in the effective management of pain in patients with ESRD.

The prevalence and severity of symptoms in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease is higher than those of the general population and comparable to those with other chronic and serious medical conditions. Despite the prevalence and severity in this population, symptoms continue to be under-recognized and inadequately managed. The recognition of specific intradialytic pain syndromes such as pain related to arteriovenous access, headaches, muscle cramps or generalized pain by providers may aid in improving patient compliance and quality of life. The approach to pain management in end stage renal disease patients follows that of the general population with specific considerations regarding clearance and potential side effects guiding selection of agents. Overall, evidence is limited regarding the pharmacology of many medications in this population.

Increasing numbers of patients with chronic kidney disease Stage 5 (GFR

Calciphylaxis is a rare, but life-threatening complication of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) that has been reported mostly in adult patients. The exact etiology is unknown, but the disease is commonly associated with a high calcium-phosphorus product and elevated levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH). We herein review the published reports on calciphylaxis in ESRD patients less than 18 years old and report the case of a patient with severe calciphylaxis who presented with lower extremity pain, muscle tenderness and difficulty in walking. The serum PTH was low, and the calcium-phosphorus product was normal. The diagnosis of calciphylaxis was confirmed by a muscle biopsy. Treatment with low calcium peritoneal dialysate and substitution of calcium-based phosphorus binders with sevelamer (Renagel) was unsuccessful. The patient's clinical condition progressed to extensive soft tissue calcification and ulcerating skin lesions. Nine months after the onset of symptoms, the patient died of cardiopulmonary arrest.

A growing body of literature has shown that chronic pain is common for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), is typically moderate or severe, and impacts virtually every aspect of health-related quality of life. Unfortunately, there is a lack of clinical and research focus in this area in nephrology, and pain in ESRD is undertreated. This article will review the epidemiology of chronic pain in ESRD, discuss basic principles of pain assessment and management, and highlight some of the challenges in pain management in ESRD with the hope of guiding health professionals in the effective management of pain in patients with ESRD.

This study intends to identify factors that influence coping with physical and emotional impacts of haemodialysis on patients in Egypt. A questionnaire was administrated to a random sample of 162 participants, 87 men and 75 women, who had received outpatient treatment in health care clinics in seven Egyptian cities. A regression model was used with four independent variables (view of medical treatment, effect of pain, adjustment to treatment, and satisfaction with life) to explain variance in satisfaction with self and coping. Results show about half the variance in the patients' ability to cope and express satisfaction with the self was explained by the independent variables ( R2=–.55, R2=.45). Implications contributing to adjustment and coping are presented, showing the need to advance medical service and enhance patients' ability to develop effective strategies.

The aim of this study was to describe patients' experiences of suffering from end-stage renal disease (ESRD).The rationale was to investigate how persons find meaning or make sense of their situation and how they experience suffering. The theoretical basis for the study was to view suffering at three levels. The first level was related to sickness and treatment. The second level was related to the care provided and the third level was related to each person's unique life experience and existence.Data were collected by interviews focusing on questions concerning daily life, needs, and expectations for the future. A qualitative interpretative content analysis was used. Fifteen patients between the ages of 50-86 participated in the study.Two main themes were identified describing these patients suffering. The first theme, 'the haemodialysis machine as a lifeline' consisted of three subthemes: 'loss of freedom', 'dependence on the caregiver', and 'disrupted marital, family and social life'. The second theme 'alleviation of suffering' consisted of two subthemes: 'gaining a sense of existential optimism' and 'achieving a sense of personal autonomy'.This study indicated that, in the lives of patients on haemodialysis, the main areas of suffering were related to loss of freedom expressed as dependence on the haemodialysis machine as a lifeline and, the caregivers. This time-consuming and tiring dependence affected marital, family and social life. Alleviation of suffering could be achieved by accepting dependence on the haemodialysis machine and maintaining autonomy by being seen as an individual by the caregivers.

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is often characterized by end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and problems including pain, hematuria, and infection. Open nephrectomy is curative; however, the morbidity of the procedure is considerable. Between 1995 and 1998, 11 laparoscopic nephrectomies were performed on nine symptomatic patients (five men and four women) with ESRD and ADPKD. Two patients underwent a staged bilateral laparoscopic nephrectomy. All patients presented with abdominal or flank pain and an abdominal mass. Other clinical problems included hypertension in eight patients, urinary tract infections in two patients, and gross hematuria in one patient. Seven patients were receiving long-term dialysis treatment, and two patients had undergone prior renal transplantation. Patients were evaluated for preoperative and postoperative pain, analgesic use, hospital course, and convalescence. The overall average operative time was 6.3 hours, with an average estimated blood loss of 153 mL. Eight nephrectomy specimens were removed by morcellation, and three specimens were removed intact through a 7- to 12-cm incision. The average hospital stay was 3 days, and the average time to normal activity was 5 weeks. With a mean follow-up of 31 months, all nine patients reported elimination of their preoperative pain based on a pain analogue score. Six major and two minor complications occurred, including blood transfusion, a vena cavotomy, splenic cyanosis, pulmonary embolism, clotted arteriovenous fistula, and brachial plexus injury. Incisional hernias occurred in two of the three patients who underwent open removal. One patient noted improvement, and two patients noted resolution of their hypertension postoperatively. Laparoscopic nephrectomy in patients with ADPKD and ESRD offers an effective alternative to open nephrectomy to manage renal-related pain. This procedure provides the benefits of minimal intraoperative blood loss, minimal postoperative pain, brief hospital stay, and rapid convalescence.

Spontaneous ruptures of the quadriceps tendon are infrequent injuries, it is seen primarily in patients with predisposing diseases such as gout, rheumatoid arthritis and chronic renal failure. A 32-year-old man had a history of end stage renal disease and received regular hemodialysis treatment for more than 5 years. He was admitted in our service for total functional impotence of the right lower limb with knee pain after a common fall two months ago. The radiogram showed a ‘’patella baja” with suprapatellar calcifications. The ultrasound and MRI showed an aspect of rupture of the quadriceps tendon in its proximal end with retraction of 3 cm. Quadriceps tendon repair was performed with a lengthening plasty, and the result was satisfactory after a serial rehabilitation program. The diagnosis of quadriceps tendon ruptures needs more attention in patientswith predisposing diseases. They should not be unknown because the treatment of neglected lesions is more difficult. We insist on the early surgical repair associated with early rehabilitation that can guarantee recovery of good active extension.Key words: Quadriceps tendon, spontaneous rupture, renal failure, lengthening plasty

Summary Background and objectives Chronic pain and psychiatric disorders are common in dialysis patients, but the extent to which opioids and benzodiazepines are used is unclear. We conducted a systematic review to determine the: (1) prevalence of opioid and benzodiazepine use among dialysis patients; (2) reasons for use; (3) effectiveness of symptom control; and (4) incidence of adverse events. Design, setting, participants, & measurements Two authors reviewed all relevant citations in MEDLINE/ EMBASE/CINAHL/BIOSIS Previews/Cochrane and hand-searched bibliographies. Studies after 1990 reporting prevalence estimates for opioid and/or benzodiazepine use in 50 dialysis patients were included. Results We identified 15 studies from 12 countries over 1995 to 2006. Sample size ranged from 75 to 12,782. Prevalence of opioid and benzodiazepine use was variable, ranging from 5 to 36% (95% CI, 4.1 to 45.5%; n 10) and 8 to 26% (95% CI, 7.1 to 27.3%; n 9), respectively. Prevalence was positively correlated with years on dialysis. Five studies reported on the same cohorts but gave different prevalence estimates. One study verified medication use through patient interviews. Reasons for use were reported in one study. Effectiveness of pain control varied from 17 to 38%, and 72 to 84% of patients with significant pain had no analgesia (n 2). No study rigorously examined for adverse events. Conclusions The prevalence of opioid and benzodiazepine use in dialysis patients is highly variable between centers. Further information is needed regarding the appropriateness of these prescriptions, adequacy of symptom control, and incidence of adverse effects in this population. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 6: 326–333, 2011. doi: 10.2215/CJN.04770610

Context Dialysis patients experience tremendous symptom burden and substantial impaired health-related quality of life (HRQL). Objectives We determined the association between symptom burden and HRQL in 591 hemodialysis patients. Methods Patients completed the modified Edmonton Symptom Assessment System and the Kidney Dialysis Quality of Life Short Form at baseline and after six months. Results There were no demographic, serological, or dialysis-related predictors for either HRQL or symptom burden. Pain, tiredness, lack of well-being, and depression were the only independent predictors of mental HRQL, accounting for 42.5% of the variation in the baseline mental health composite (MHC). Pain, fatigue, lack of well-being, and shortness of breath were the only independent predictors of physical HRQL, accounting for 38.5% of the variation in the baseline physical health composite (PHC). After follow-up, only changes in depression, anxiety, tiredness, and lack of appetite were independently associated with a change in MHC score, accounting for 48.7% of the variability. Only changes in pain, tiredness, and lack of appetite were independently associated with a change in PHC, accounting for 44.6% of the variability in the final multivariate regression model. No change in biochemical parameters predicted a change in either the MHC or the PHC. Conclusion Symptom burden in end-stage renal disease was substantial and had a tremendous negative impact on all aspects of hemodialysis patients' HRQL. These patients, therefore, would likely benefit from the institution of programs to reduce symptom burden.

Symptoms in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are underrecognized. Prevalence studies have focused on single symptoms rather than on the whole range of symptoms experienced. This systematic review aimed to describe prevalence of all symptoms, to better understand total symptom burden. Extensive database, "gray literature," and hand searches were undertaken, by predefined protocol, for studies reporting symptom prevalence in ESRD populations on dialysis, discontinuing dialysis, or without dialysis. Prevalence data were extracted, study quality assessed by use of established criteria, and studies contrasted/combined to show weighted mean prevalence and range. Fifty-nine studies in dialysis patients, one in patients discontinuing dialysis, and none in patients without dialysis met the inclusion criteria. For the following symptoms, weighted mean prevalence (and range) were fatigue/tiredness 71% (12% to 97%), pruritus 55% (10% to 77%), constipation 53% (8% to 57%), anorexia 49% (25% to 61%), pain 47% (8% to 82%), sleep disturbance 44% (20% to 83%), anxiety 38% (12% to 52%), dyspnea 35% (11% to 55%), nausea 33% (15% to 48%), restless legs 30% (8%to 52%), and depression 27% (5%to 58%). Prevalence variations related to differences in symptom definition, period of prevalence, and level of severity reported. ESRD patients on dialysis experience multiple symptoms, with pain, fatigue, pruritus, and constipation in more than 1 in 2 patients. In patients discontinuing dialysis, evidence is more limited, but it suggests they too have significant symptom burden. No evidence is available on symptom prevalence in ESRD patients managed conservatively (without dialysis). The need for greater recognition of and research into symptom prevalence and causes, and interventions to alleviate them, is urgent.

Pain is the one of the most common symptoms experienced by patients with ESRD; it impairs their quality of life and is undertreated. Most pain clinicians believe that the pain management approach of the World Health Organization (WHO) three-step analgesic ladder is applicable to the treatment of patients with ESRD, but this approach has not been validated for them. A cohort of 45 hemodialysis patients were assessed for type and severity of pain using the Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire and then treated during a 4-wk period according to the WHO analgesic ladder. Mean age was 65 +/- 12.5 yr, and 22 (49%) patients had diabetic nephropathy as the cause of ESRD. Initial pain was rated severe by 34 (76%) patients. There was no difference in initial pain rating by gender, age, race, or type of pain. Forty percent of patients reported nociceptive pain, 31% neuropathic, and 29% both. Adequate analgesia was achieved in 43 (96%) of 45 patients. The mean pain score decreased from 7.8 +/- 1.2 to 1.6 +/- 1.3 (P < 0.001). Patients who were 65 yr and older had higher posttreatment scores than those who were younger than 65 (2.1 +/- 1.4 versus 0.94 +/- 0.93; P = 0.002) and more medication adverse effects. It is concluded that the use of the WHO three-step analgesic ladder leads to effective pain relief in hemodialysis patients. Older patients will need more careful pain management to achieve the same results as younger patients. Further studies are needed to confirm these results in a larger, more diverse dialysis population.

Summary Aim To evaluate the effects of a yoga-based exercise program on pain, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and biochemical markers in hemodialysis patients. Materials and methods In 2004 a randomized controlled trial was carried out in the outpatient hemodialysis unit of the Nephrology Department, Uludag University Faculty of Medicine. Clinically stable hemodialysis patients ( n = 37) were included and followed in two groups: the modified yoga-based exercise group ( n = 19) and the control group ( n = 18). Yoga-based exercises were done in groups for 30 min/day twice a week for 3 months. All of the patients in the yoga and control groups were given an active range of motion exercises to do for 10 min at home. The main outcome measures were pain intensity (measured by the visual analogue scale, VAS), fatigue (VAS), sleep disturbance (VAS), and grip strength (mmHg); biochemical variables – urea, creatinine, calcium, alkaline phosphatase, phosphorus, cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, triglyceride, erythrocyte, hematocrit – were evaluated. Results After a 12-week intervention, significant improvements were seen in the variables: pain −37%, fatigue −55%, sleep disturbance −25%, grip strength +15%, urea −29%, creatinine −14%, alkaline phosphatase −15%, cholesterol −15%, erythrocyte +11%, and hematocrit count +13%; no side-effects were seen. Improvement of the variables in the yoga-based exercise program was found to be superior to that in the control group for all the variables except calcium, phosphorus, HDL-cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Conclusion A simplified yoga-based rehabilitation program is a complementary, safe and effective clinical treatment modality in patients with end-stage renal disease.

Background Uraemic pruritus is a common problem in end-stage renal failure patients. Traditional therapies produce marginal or no results. Acupuncture has been reported to be effective. The aim of this randomized, controlled study was to validate a single acupoint for relieving uraemic pruritus. Methods We randomized 40 patients with refractory uraemic pruritus into two groups. In group 1 (n = 20), acupuncture was applied unilaterally at the Quchi (LI11) acupoint thrice weekly for 1 month. In group 2 (controls, n = 20), acupuncture was applied at a non-acupoint 2 cm lateral to Quchi (LI11) thrice weekly for 1 month. Subjects responded to a pruritus score questionnaire given before and at the end of the 1 month treatment and at a 3 months follow-up. The results of the pruritus scores were analysed with the repeated measures general linear model to examine the effect of acupuncture on pruritus scores. Results In group 1, pruritus scores before and after acupuncture and at the 3 month follow-up were 38.3+/-4.3, 17.3+/-5.5 and 16.5+/-4.9, and in group 2 (controls) they were 38.3+/-4.3, 37.5+/-3.2 and 37.1+/-5, respectively. Laboratory tests showed no significant differences between the two groups. Pruritus scores were significantly lower after acupuncture and at the 3 month follow-up, P Conclusions Acupuncture at the Quchi (LI11) acupoint is an easy, safe and effective means of relieving uraemic pruritus.

Summary: Purpose: We analyzed the occurrence and clinical features of myoclonus in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) who were treated with gabapentin (GBP). Methods: We reviewed the medical records of patients with ESRD who were treated with GBP and hospitalized during an 18-month period and analyzed clinical details such as type of myoclonus, doses of GBP, electroencephalographic (EEG) findings, and relation of symptoms to GBP exposure and dosage. Results: Three of 71 patients had myoclonus with GBP doses ranging from 9 mg/kg to 20 mg/kg and within 4 months of treatment onset. Myoclonus was characterized as multifocal, involving all extremities in the three patients. EEG did not show epileptiform discharges with the myoclonus. Myoclonus resolved in the three individuals within 4‐15 days after GBP was discontinued. Conclusions: GBP increases the risk of myoclonus in ESRD. Myoclonus in these individuals was more disabling than that in patients with normal renal function, and discontinuation of GBP is required to restore normal function. Ke yW ords: Gabapentin—Myoclonus—End-stage renal disease.

A difficult pain occurred in a man with chronic renal failure as a result of the underlying condition of calciphylaxis. In this condition, calcification of small and medium-sized arteries occurs, which may result in ischemia and gangrene. In general, the prognosis is poor, with mortality rates ranging from 23-63%. Pain associated with this condition has been previously reported. In this report, the pain occurred in the lower limbs and penis, and was associated with local necrosis. The pain was observed to be significantly worse on dialysis. A multiprofessional approach to care ultimately resulted in good symptom control.

A case is presented of an exceptionally good death after discontinuation of dialysis, and the authors trace the evolution of their attempts at measuring quality of dying in patients with end-stage renal disease. The Dialysis Quality of Dying Apgar is based on the pediatric tool for measuring the condition of newborn babies. Previous research with termination of dialysis has revealed that staff, patients, and families characterize a good death as being pain-free, peaceful, and brief. The quality of dying tool has corresponding domains to which it adds advance care planning and non-pain symptoms. Quantification of patient deaths combined with descriptive narratives can be used to establish benchmarks for the provision of terminal care. Very good deaths need to be recognized and valued as goals for palliative medicine.

Repeated episodes of headache and muscle cramp were hypothesized to contribute to increased patient perceptions of illness intrusiveness and to compromised quality of life. Standard measures of pain, illness intrusiveness, and quality of life were obtained on 2 occasions, each 6 weeks apart, from 100 end-stage renal disease patients. The impact of recurrent muscle cramps on perceptions of illness intrusiveness was conditional upon the occurrence of headache symptoms. Perceptions of illness intrusiveness were significantly higher when both muscle cramp and headache symptoms occurred during one or more assessment intervals as compared to when muscle cramps or headaches, only, occurred. Illness-related concerns and general feelings of pessimism were also significantly higher among patients who experienced recurrent episodes of muscle cramp. Although no direct relations were observed between pain and other quality of life indicators, previous research has documented a relation between illness intrusiveness and quality of life. Recurrent pain problems, thus, appear to contribute to increased illness intrusiveness and to reduced quality of life in end-stage renal disease patients.