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Resumo Introdução: O Brasil possui o maior sistema público e universal de saúde do mundo, mas pouco se sabe sobre os desfechos dos pacientes em hemodiálise (HD) no país de acordo com a fonte de financiamento do tratamento. Objetivo: Comparar o perfil e a sobrevida dos pacientes que têm o tratamento de HD custeado pelo Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) com aqueles com convênio privado. Métodos: Análise retrospectiva dos adultos incidentes em HD entre 2012 e 2017 em 21 centros de diálise no Brasil que atendiam tanto pelo SUS quanto por convênios privados. Os participantes, independentemente da fonte pagadora, receberam tratamento dialítico semelhante. Os dados foram censurados com 60 meses de acompanhamento ou ao final de 2019. Resultados: Foram incluídos 4945 pacientes, sendo 59,7% financiados pelo SUS. Os pacientes financiados pelo SUS, em comparação aos que tinham convênio privado, eram mais jovens (58 vs 60 anos; p < 0,0001) e com menor prevalência de diabetes (35,8% vs 40,9%; p < 0,0001). As taxas de sobrevida, em 60 meses nesses grupos foram de 51,1% e 52,1%, respectivamente (p = 0,85). Na análise da razão de risco proporcional de subdistribuição pelo modelo de Fine-Gray, incluindo ajuste para desfechos concorrentes, foi encontrado um aumento significativo na razão de risco para morte (1,22 [intervalo de confiança de 95% 1,04 a 1,43]) nos pacientes com tratamento custeado pelo SUS. Conclusões: Pacientes em HD com tratamento custeado pelo SUS têm um risco ajustado de morte mais elevado do que aqueles com convênio privado, apesar do tratamento dialítico semelhante. Fatores não relacionados diretamente à terapia dialítica poderiam justificar esta diferença.

Resumo Introdução: A utilização da razão albumina/creatinina e da razão proteína total/creatinina em amostras isoladas de urina já foram validadas como substitutos para a albuminúria e proteinúria em 24 horas. Assim, nossa hipótese é que o tipo de proteinúria, dado pelo padrão eletroforético da urina de 24 horas, poderia ser previsto pela simples proporção de albumina no conteúdo total de proteínas na urina, utilizando a razão albumina/proteína (RAP). O presente estudo procurou validar o uso da RAP como um substituto mais prático e de menor custo da eletroforese de proteínas urinárias (EPU). Métodos: Foram utilizados diferentes modelos matemáticos a fim de comparar a fração de albumina pela eletroforese em amostras de urina de 24 horas e a RAP em amostras isoladas em 42 pacientes ambulatoriais com doença renal crônica. Resultados: Foi observada uma forte correlação logarítmica r = 0,84 (0,75–0,92; 95% CI, p = 0,001) entre a RAP e a fração de albumina pela EPU. Conclusão: A RAP pode substituir a eletroforese urinária em pacientes renais crônicos ambulatoriais.

Background Although Brazil has one of the largest populations on haemodialysis (HD) in the world, data regarding patients’ characteristics and the variables associated with risk of death are scanty. Methods This is a retrospective analysis of all adult patients who initiated on maintenance HD at 23 dialysis centres in Brazil between 2012 and 2017. Patients were censored after 60 months of follow-up or at the end of 2019. Results A total of 5,081 patients were included in the analysis. The median age was 59 years, 59.4% were men, 37.5% had diabetes as the cause of kidney failure. Almost 70% had a central venous catheter (CVC) as the initial vascular access, about 60% started dialysis in the hospital, and fluid overload (FO) by bioimpedance assessment was seen in 45% of patients. The 60-month survival rate was 51.4%. In the Cox regression analysis, being older (PP=0.016), having diabetes as the cause of kidney failure (P=0.001), high alkaline phosphatase (P=0.005), CVC as first vascular access (P=0.023), and FO (PP=0.015), haemoglobin (P=0.004), transferrin saturation (P=0.002), and serum albumin (PP=0.14), were associated with death risk in an analysis of subdistribution proportional hazards ratio including the competing outcomes. Conclusions The present study gives an overview of a large HD population in a developing country and identifies the main predictors of mortality, including some potentially modifiable ones, such as unplanned initiation of dialysis in the hospital and fluid overload.

Background and objectives High-volume online hemodiafiltration (OL-HDF) associates with improved outcomes compared to hemodialysis (HD), provided adequate dosing is achieved as estimated from convective volume (CV). Achievement of high CV and its impact on biochemical indicators following a standardized protocol converting HD patients to OL-HDF has not been systematically reported. We assessed the success of implementation of OL-HDF in clinics naive to the modality. Design, setting, participants, and measurements We analyzed the results of the implementation of postdilution OL-HDF in patients randomized to the HDF arm of a clinical trial (impact of hemoDiaFIlTration on physical activity and self-reported outcomes: a randomized controlled trial (HDFit) trial [ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT02787161]). The day before randomization of the first patient to OL-HDF at each clinic staff started a 3-day in-person training module on operation of Fresenius 5008 CorDiax machine in HDF mode. Patients were converted from high-flux HD to OL-HDF under oversight of trainers. OL-HDF was performed over a 6-months follow-up with a CV target of 22 L/treatment. We characterized median achieved CV >22 L/treatment record and analyzed the impact of HDF on biochemical variables. Results Ninety-seven patients (mean age 53 ± 16 years, 29% with diabetes, and 11% had a catheter) from 13 clinics randomized to the OL-HDF arm of the trial were converted from HD to HDF. Median CV > 22 L/treatment was achieved in 99% (94/95) of OL-HDF patients throughout follow-up. Monthly mean CV ranged from 27.1 L to 27.5 L. OL-HDF provided an increased single pool Kt/V at 3-months (0.2 [95% CI: 0.1-0.3]) and 6-months (0.2 [95% CI: 0.1-0.4]) compared to baseline, and reduced phosphate at 3-months (-0.4 mg/dL [95% CI: -0.8 to -0.12]) of follow-up. Conclusions High-volume online hemodiafiltration was successfully implemented with 99% of patients achieving protocol defined CV target. Monthly mean CV was consistently >22 L/treatment during follow-up. Kt/V increased, and phosphate decreased with OL-HDF. Findings resulting from a short training period in several dialysis facilities appear to suggest HDF is an easily implementable technique.

Background In a previous study we showed that troponin I (TnI) > 0.42 ng/mL predicted the need of dialysis in a group of 29 septic patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). We aimed to confirm such finding in a larger independent sample. Methods All septic patients admitted to an ICU from March 2016 to February 2017 were included if age between 18 and 90 years, onset of sepsis 0.42 ng/mL. These patients had serum creatinine slightly higher (1.66 ± 0.34 vs. 1.32 ± 0.39 mg/dL; P 0.42 ng/mL persisted as a strong predictor of dialysis need (hazard ratio 3.48 [95%CI 1.69–7.18]). Conclusions TnI levels at ICU admission are a strong independent predictor of dialysis need in sepsis.

Background Fluid overload (FO) assessed by bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) is associated with higher mortality risk in maintenance haemodialysis (HD). The aim was to assess if a better management of FO through short daily haemodialysis (SDHD) could improve survival. Methods Retrospective analysis of patients who were on HD 3 sessions/week for at least 3 months and shifted to in-centre SDHD (5 or 6 sessions/week, 2 to 3 h/session) between July 2012 and June 2016 at 23 dialysis units in Brazil. The 12-month risk of death was analysed according to the predialysis hydration status measured before and 6 months after initiation of SDHD. Predialysis hydration status was considered adequate when FO ≤15% of extracellular volume. Results A total of 297 patients on SDHD were included in the analysis. Their median age was 57 (IQR 45–67) years, 62% were males, 44% diabetics, 57% on 6 dialysis sessions/week, with a median session duration of 130 (IQR 120–150) minutes. BIS assessment at initiation of the SDHD regimen was performed in 220 patients and FO > 15% was found in 46.4%. Twelve-month survival rates for those with FO ≤15 and > 15% before initiating SDHD were 87.4 and 88.0%, respectively (P = 0.92). BIS analysis when completing 6 months on SDHD were available for 229 patients, 26.6% with FO > 15%. The survival rates for the next 12 months (from the 6th to the 18th month of follow-up) for those with FO ≤15 and > 15% were 91.0 and 72.0%, respectively (P = 0.0006). In a Cox regression model, after adjustment for demographic, clinical and laboratory variables, FO ≤ 15% persisted associated with a lower mortality risk (hazard ratio 0.34, 95%CI 0.13–0.87). Conclusions Moving from conventional HD to SDHD was associated with better control of excessive extracellular volume. Patients who reached or maintained predialysis fluid overload ≤15% after initiating SDHD presented a lower risk of death.

Background. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is usually estimated from equations using serum creatinine (sCr), with adjustment for gender, age, and race (black or nonblack). The Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) is the preferred equation for adults, but it was validated for the United States population. We intended to evaluate if the race-ethnicity adjustment proposed for the sCr-based CKD-EPI equations is appropriate for the Brazilian population. Methods. CKD outpatients had blood samples collected for determination of sCr and serum cystatin C (sCys) levels. GFR was measured (mGFR) by plasma clearance of 51Cr-EDTA and used as the reference. We compared values of mGFR and estimated GFR (eGFR) by CKD-EPI equations based on sCr (eGFRCr) and on the combination of sCr and sCys (eGFRCr-Cys). For African Brazilian patients, eGFR was calculated either without or with race adjustment. Accuracy was considered acceptable if the difference between the values of eGFR and mGFR was ≤30% (P30). Results. 100 patients were enrolled (58 ± 14 years, 46% male, 39% white and 61% African Brazilian). Mean mGFR was 46.7 ± 29.2 ml/min/1.73 m2. Mean eGFRCr and eGFRCr-Cys without race adjustment were 47.8 ± 30.1 ml/min/1.73 m2 and 46.4 ± 30.3 ml/min/1.73 m2, respectively. The corresponding P30 accuracy values were 79.0% and 83.0%. In the African Brazilian subgroup, values for mean mGFR and eGFRCr either without or with race adjustment were 49.8 ± 32.2 ml/min/1.73 m2, 50.4 ± 32.7 ml/min/1.73 m2, and 58.4 ± 37.9 ml/min/1.73 m2 (P<0.001 vs. mGFR), respectively. P30 accuracy values for eGFRCr either without or with race adjustment were 75.4% and 67.2%, respectively. Conclusions. The use of CKD-EPI equations without race-ethnicity adjustment seems more appropriate for the Brazilian population.

Introduction: Metabolic acidosis is associated with the high mortality seen in hemodialysis patients. The panorama of metabolic acidosis in hemodialysis in Brazil is unclear since 1996 when the analysis of bicarbonate levels was no longer a compulsory exam. We aimed to establish the prevalence of metabolic acidosis in a hemodialysis population and analyze the factors associated with low bicarbonate levels. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out to assess the prevalence of metabolic acidosis in adults undergoing regular hemodialysis from January to April 2017, in four dialysis centers from Niteroi, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and surroundings. For blood gas analysis, samples of 2 mL were collected in heparinized syringes before a midweek dialysis session. Results: 384 patients with a mean age of 58.1 ± 15.8 years (54.5% men and 63.0%, non-white) were included. Approximately 30% had diabetes and 48%, hypertension. Nearly 88% used primary arteriovenous fistula as vascular access. The pre-dialysis mean serum tCO2 in the midweek session was 22.7 ± 3.0 mEq/L. The prevalence rate of serum bicarbonate below DOQI recommendation (22 mEq/L or higher) was 40.3%, and 6.5% had serum bicarbonate < 18 mEq/L. The dialyzer use count and the use of low-flux dialyzers were negatively associated whereas age and the standard Kt/V values were positively associated with the serum bicarbonate levels. Conclusion: The findings were in agreement with global data reported in previous studies. However, because the sample was relatively small and non-representative of the Brazilian population, a more comprehensive study, addressing national data is necessary to substantiate our findings. RESUMO Introdução: A acidose metabólica está associada à elevada mortalidade observada em pacientes em hemodiálise. O panorama da acidose metabólica na hemodiálise no Brasil perdeu visibilidade em 1996, ano em que a análise dos níveis de bicarbonato deixou de ser obrigatória. Nosso objetivo foi estabelecer a prevalência da acidose metabólica em uma população em hemodiálise e analisar os fatores associados a baixos níveis de bicarbonato. Métodos: O presente estudo transversal avaliou a prevalência de acidose metabólica em adultos regularmente submetidos a hemodiálise de janeiro a abril de 2017, em quatro centros de diálise situados em Niterói e arredores no Estado do Rio de Janeiro. Para análise de gasometria, foram colhidas amostras de 2 mL em seringas heparinizadas antes das sessões de diálise do meio de semana. Resultados: Foram incluídos 384 pacientes com idade média de 58,1 ± 15,8 anos (54,5% homens; 63,0% não brancos). Aproximadamente 30% tinham diabetes e 48% apresentavam hipertensão. Cerca de 88% usavam fístula arteriovenosa primária como acesso vascular. A concentração sérica média pré-diálise de tCO2 na sessão do meio de semana foi de 22,7 ± 3,0 mEq/L. A taxa de prevalência de bicarbonato sérico abaixo do valor recomendado no DOQI (22 mEq/L ou superior) foi de 40,3%; 6,5% dos pacientes apresentaram bicarbonato sérico < 18 mEq/L. Os níveis séricos de bicarbonato apresentaram associações negativas com número de usos do dialisador e uso de dialisadores de baixo fluxo e associações positivas com idade e valores do Kt/V standard. Conclusão: Os resultados foram concordantes com dados globais relatados em estudos anteriores. Contudo, como a amostra era relativamente pequena e não representativa da população brasileira, são necessários estudos mais abrangentes que venham a abordar dados nacionais para consubstanciar nossos achados.

Introduction: In the last decades, there was an expressive increase in the number of elderly patients with chronic kidney disease starting hemodialysis. Thus, our goal was to evaluate the profile of the elderly in chronic hemodialysis and to compare the cognition and quality of life of the younger elderly with those of the very elderly. Methods: Patients on hemodialysis for at least 3 months, who were 65 years of age or older when they started dialysis were invited to participate, and stratified according to age (under or over 80 years). The participants answered a clinical-epidemiological questionnaire and underwent cognitive tests (Mini Mental State Exam [MMSE], clock drawing test [CDT] and verbal fluency test [VFT]) and a quality of life assessment 36- Item Short Form Health Survey). Results: Of the 125 eligible patients, 124 agreed to participate. The mean age was 76 ± 6 years (28% ≥ 80 years), 56% were men and 55% had ≥ 8 years of schooling. Depression was suggested in 38%. The prevalence of cognitive deficit was 38%, 70% and 30%, by MEEM, CDT and VFT, respectively. The prevalence of any deficit was higher among the very elderly (94% vs. 72%, p = 0.007). Quality of life scores were similar between the two age groups, except for the functional capacity domain, worse in the group with ≥ 80 years (p = 0.033). Conclusion: Elderly patients on chronic hemodialysis have a high prevalence of cognitive deficits, especially the very elderly, but this group does not have a worse quality of life, except for functional capacity. Resumo Introdução: Nas últimas décadas, houve um aumento expressivo no número de pacientes idosos com doença renal crônica iniciando hemodiálise. Assim, nosso objetivo foi avaliar o perfil de idosos em hemodiálise crônica e comparar a cognição e a qualidade de vida dos idosos com as de muito idosos. Métodos: Pacientes em hemodiálise havia pelo menos 3 meses, que tinham 65 anos ou mais quando começaram o tratamento dialítico foram convidados a participar, e estratificados de acordo com a idade (menores ou maiores de 80 anos). Os participantes responderam a um questionário clinico-epidemiológico e foram submetidos a testes cognitivos (miniexame do estado mental [MEEM], teste do relógio [TDR] e teste de fluência verbal [TFV]) e a uma avaliação de qualidade de vida 36-Item Short Form Health Survey). Resultados: Dos 125 pacientes elegíveis, 124 concordaram em participar. A idade média foi de 76 ± 6 anos (28% ≥ 80 anos), 56% eram homens e 55% tinham ≥ 8 anos de escolaridade. Depressão foi sugerida em 38%. A prevalência de déficit cognitivo foi 38%, 70% e 30%, pelo MEEM, TDR e TFV, respectivamente. A prevalência de qualquer déficit foi maior entre os muito idosos (94% vs. 72%, p = 0,007). Os escores de qualidade de vida foram semelhantes entre os dois grupos etários, exceto pelo domínio da capacidade funcional, pior no grupo com ≥ 80 anos (p = 0.033). Conclusão: Os pacientes idosos em hemodiálise crônica apresentam elevada prevalência de déficit cognitivo, especialmente os muito idosos, mas esse grupo não possui pior qualidade de vida, exceto pelo aspecto da capacidade funcional.

Details about the acid-base changes in hemodialysis are scarce in the literature but are potentially relevant to adequate management of patients. We addressed the acid-base kinetics during hemodialysis and throughout the interdialytic period in a cross-sectional study of adults undergoing conventional hemodialysis. Samples for blood gas analysis were obtained from the arterial limb of the arteriovenous fistula before the first session of the week (HD1), immediately at the end of HD1, and on sequential collections at 15, 30, 45, 60, and 120 min post-HD1. Additional blood samples were collected after ∼20 h following the end of the first dialysis and immediately prior to the initiation of the second dialysis of the week. Thirty adult patients were analyzed (55±15 years, 50% men, 23% diabetic; dialysis vintage 69±53 months). Mean serum bicarbonate levels increased at the end of HD1 (22.3±2.7 mEq/L vs 17.5±2.3 mEq/L, P

INTRODUCTION: Dengue is one of the most important mosquito-borne infections. Severe cases are more frequently observed in adults. However, in 2008, the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, experienced a severe dengue epidemic that primarily affected children and caused many cases of dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and death. METHODS: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted to examine laboratory diagnosis and clinical epidemiologic factors for confirmed dengue cases in patients aged less than 16 years, from January to June 2008, at a municipal hospital in the City of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Variables associated with severe outcomes and P values less than .05 were evaluated by means of a logistic regression model. RESULTS: Of the 419 dengue cases studied, 296 were classified as DHF and 123 as classical dengue. Six patients who had DHF died. In multivariate analysis, some laboratory and clinical variables were independently associated with DHF: age 5 years or older (odds ratio [OR], 4.94; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.30-18.71), abdominal pain (OR, 8.59; 95% CI, 3.17-23.27), hepatomegaly (OR, 15.87; 95% CI, 5.38-46.85), and positive tourniquet test (OR, 10.84; 95% CI, 3.96-29.71). Hypoalbuminemia occurred more frequently than hemoconcentration in DHF cases, and high aminotransferase levels were associated with severity. CONCLUSIONS: Age greater than 5 years, abdominal pain, painful hepatomegaly, and positive tourniquet test were predictors of DHF. The high frequency of hepatic impairment suggests that acetaminophen should be avoided in severe cases of dengue.

Serum creatinine (sCr) is usually higher among black people in the United States due to increased muscle mass, justifying the addition of race adjustment in creatinine-based formulas to estimate glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). We aimed to assess if sCr levels are different in low-income communities in Brazil according to their race. A total of 1,303 participants were enrolled (58% females, 50±14 years-old, 33% self-defined as white, 41% as mixed race, and 26% as black). No significant differences in sCr were found between racial groups and no influence of race on sCr was seen in the linear regression analysis. The eGFR, calculated using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) formula with no race adjustment, was no different between whites, mixed race and blacks. However, using such adjustment, eGFR for mixed race and black individuals was significantly higher than for whites (p < 0.001). In conclusion, no significant differences in sCr levels were found between racial groups, raising doubts as to whether race adjustment in eGFR formula should be used in that population.

Introduction/objective: We evaluated the predictability of early changes in serum albumin (sAlb) on the two-year mortality of incident hemodialysis patients. Methods: Observational, longitudinal retrospective study using the database of Fresenius Medical Care of Latin America. Adult patients starting dialysis from January/2000 to June/2004, from 25 centers were included. Changes in sAlb during the first 3 months on hemodialysis were used as the main predictor. The outcome was death from any cause. Results: 1,679 incident patients were included. They were 52 ± 15 years old, 58.7% male and 21.5% diabetic, with a median sAlb of 38 g/L (bromocresol green). 923 patients had sAlb < 38 g/L (Low sAlb Group) and 756 ones had sAlb > 38.0 g/L (Adequate sAlb Group). The mortality was significantly higher in Low sAlb Group (17% vs. 11%, p < 0.001). Early changes in sAlb significantly affected two-year mortality. Factoring the Kaplan Meier curve of Low sAlb Group by the presence of an increase in sAlb uncovered of a statistically significant difference in mortality favoring the ones whose sAlb went up (19% vs. 15%, p = 0.043). Differently, patients from Adequate sAlb Group with a decrease in their sAlb had a statistically higher mortality rate (13% vs. 8%, p = 0.029). Conclusions: Early sAlb changes showed a significant predictive power on mortality at 2 years in incident hemodialysis patients. Those with low initial sAlb may have a better prognosis if their sAlb rises. In contrast, patients with satisfactory initial levels can have a worsening of their prognosis in the case of an early reduction in sAlb.

Background:Autonomic dysfunction (AD) is highly prevalent in hemodialysis (HD) patients and has been implicated in their increased risk of cardiovascular mortality.Objective:To correlate heart rate variability (HRV) during exercise treadmill test (ETT) with the values obtained when measuring functional aerobic impairment (FAI) in HD patients and controls.Methods:Cross-sectional study involving HD patients and a control group. Clinical examination, blood sampling, transthoracic echocardiogram, 24-hour Holter, and ETT were performed. A symptom-limited ramp treadmill protocol with active recovery was employed. Heart rate variability was evaluated in time domain at exercise and recovery periods.Results:Forty-one HD patients and 41 controls concluded the study. HD patients had higher FAI and lower HRV than controls (p

Background: Abnormal ankle-brachial index (ABI) has been found to be a strong predictor of mortality in some hemodialysis populations in studies with relatively short periods of follow-up, lower than 2 years. Objective: This study aimed to assess the predictive value of abnormal ABI as a risk factor for death among patients on maintenance hemodialysis after a 5-year follow-up. Methods: A total of 478 patients on hemodialysis for at least 12 months were included in the study. ABI measurement was performed using a mercury column sphygmomanometer and portable Doppler. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to ABI (low: 1.3) and followed for a 60-month period. Results: The prevalence rates of low, normal and high ABI were 26.8%, 64.6% and 8.6%, respectively. The 5-year survival rate was lower in the groups with low ABI (44.1%, P1,3), e acompanhados por um período de 60 meses. Resultados: As prevalências de ITB baixo, normal e alto foram 26,8%, 64,6% e 8,6%, respectivamente. A taxa de sobrevida de 5 anos foi menor nos grupos com ITB baixo (44,1%, p

Systemic anticoagulation with unfractionated heparin is commonly used in maintenance hemodialysis (HD), but it increases the risk of bleeding complications. We investigated whether the use of citrate-enriched bicarbonate based dialysate (CD) would reduce systemic anticoagulation without compromising the efficacy of reprocessed dialyzers. This is a crossover study in which half of a total of 30 patients initially underwent HD with acetate-enriched bicarbonate based dialysate and a standard heparin dose of ∼ 100 IU/kg (Treatment A), whereas the remaining patients were treated with CD and a 30% reduced heparin dose (Treatment B). After 12 consecutive HD sessions in each treatment, the dialysate and heparin doses were reversed, then followed for another period of 12 HD sessions. The two treatment phases were split by a washout period of six HD sessions using acetate-enriched bicarbonate based dialysate and standard heparin dose. Systemic anticoagulation was higher in Treatment A. The activated partial thromboplastin time at the end of HD session was 68 ± 36 seconds in Treatment A and 47 ± 16 seconds in Treatment B (P = 0.005). Sixty-eight percent of the dialyzers remained adequate until the 12th use in Treatment A and 61% did so in Treatment B (P = 0.63). Patients had three and 24 cramps episodes during Treatment A and B, respectively (P < 0.001). Nine and 26 symptomatic intradialytic hypotension episodes were seen in Treatment A and B, respectively, (P = 0.003). In conclusion, the use of CD had a favorable effect on anticoagulation in the extracorporeal circuit in patients on maintenance HD, but it was also associated with more hypotension and cramps.

A doenca renal cronica (DRC) e um importante problema de saude que afeta cerca de 13% da populacao adulta global. O tratamento da DRC avancada, referido como doenca renal terminal (DRT), e dispendioso e pode representar um fardo economico substancial tanto para paises desenvolvidos, quanto para paises em desenvolvimento. Nao raramente, os paises podem gastar mais de 8% do orcamento de saude com o tratamento de menos de 2% da populacao. […] Comparando custos da terapia renal substitutiva em uma [...]

Introduction: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is especially prevalent in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Objective: To evaluate the role of CKD and metabolic syndrome (MS), which is a cluster of risk factors for CVD, as predictors of CVD. Methods: Observational, cross-sectional study with a random sample aged 45 or more years extracted from the population assisted by the primary care program in Niterói city in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. CKD was diagnosed by the K/DOQI guidelines and MS, by the harmonized criteria. CVD was said to be present if the participant had one or more of the following findings: echocardiographic abnormalities, and history of myocardial infarction, stroke or heart failure. A logistic regression model was developed to analyze risk factors for CVD using CKD as the variable of primary interest. Results: Fifty hundred and eighty-one participants (38.2% male) with a mean age of 59.4 ± 10.2 years were analyzed. The prevalence rate of CKD was 27.9%. In participants without CKD, MS was associated with a slight but statistically significant increase in the risk for CVD (OR = 1.52, p = 0.037); in those with CKD but without MS the risk for CVD was also statistically significant and at a greater magnitude (OR = 2.42, p = 0.003); when both were present the risk for CVD was substantially higher (OR = 5.13, p < 0.001). Conclusion: In this study involving a population assisted by a primary care program, CKD was confirmed as an independent risk factor for CVD. The presence of MS concurrent with CKD substantially amplified the risk for CVD. Resumo Introdução: A doença cardiovascular (DCV) é especialmente prevalente em pacientes com doença renal crônica (DRC). Objetivo: Avaliar o papel da DRC e da síndrome metabólica (SM), que é um conjunto de fatores de risco para DCV, como previsores de DCV. Métodos: Estudo observacional, transversal, com uma amostra representativa da população assistida pelo programa de atenção primária em Niterói, RJ, Brasil, incluindo pacientes com idade igual ou maior do que 45 anos. A DRC foi diagnosticada segundo o K/DOQI e a SM, pelo critério harmonizado. A DCV foi dita estar presente diante de um ou mais dos seguintes achados: anormalidades ecocardiográficas ou história de infarto do miocárdio, acidente vascular cerebral ou insuficiência cardíaca. Um modelo de regressão logística foi desenvolvido para analisar os fatores de risco cardiovasculares usando a DRC como a variável de interesse primário. Resultados: Foram analisados 581 participantes (38,2% homens), com idade média de 59,4 ± 10,2 anos. A taxa de prevalência da DRC foi de 27,9%. Em participantes sem DRC, a SM foi associada com um ligeiro, mas estatisticamente significativo aumento no risco cardiovascular (OR = 1,52, p = 0,04); naqueles com DRC, mas sem SM, o risco para DCV também foi estatisticamente significativo e com maior magnitude (OR = 2,42, p = 0,003); quando ambos estavam presentes, o risco para DCV foi substancialmente mais elevado (OR = 5,13, p < 0,001). Conclusão: Neste estudo, envolvendo uma população assistida por um programa de atenção primária, a DRC foi confirmada como um fator de risco independente para DCV. A presença da SM concomitante com a DRC ampliou substancialmente esse risco.

Brazil has the third largest contingent of patients on maintenance hemodialysis (HD) worldwide. However, little is known regarding survival rate and predictors of mortality risk in that population, which are the purposes of this study. A total of 3,082 patients incident on HD, from 2000 to 2004, at 25 dialysis facilities distributed among 7 out of 26 states of Brazil were followed-up until 2009. Patients were 52 ± 16 years-old, 57.8% men, and 20.4%, diabetics. The primary outcome was all causes of mortality. Data were censored at five years of follow-up. The global five-year survival rate was 58.2%. In the Cox proportional model, variables associated with risk of death were: age (hazard ratio - HR = 1.44 per decade, p < 0.0001), diabetes (HR = 1.51, p < 0.0001), serum albumin (HR = 0.76 per g/dL, p = 0.001), creatinine (HR = 0.92 per mg/dL, p < 0.0001), and phosphorus (HR = 1.06 per mg/dL, p = 0.04). The present results show that the mortality rate on HD in this Brazilian cohort was relatively low, but the population is younger and with a lower prevalence of diabetes than the ones reported for developed countries.

Na atualidade, o mundo está enfrentando uma epidemia de doença renal crônica (DRC). Bases de dados contendo informações sobre os pacientes no estágio terminal da doença renal (DRCt), especialmente nos Estados Unidos, foram as fontes das primeiras informações a respeito deste assunto. O Brasil possui a terceira maior população em diálise no mundo, e atualmente existem cerca de 680 centros de diálise, distribuídos por todas as unidades da federação, atendendo uma população estimada em quase 90.000 pacientes. O envolvimento cutâneo na insuficiência renal crônica é caracterizado por uma diversidade de manifestações, as quais podem ser relacionadas a três processos: à doença renal primária; ao estado urêmico ou a medidas terapêuticas empregadas no seu manuseio. As alterações dermatológicas nessas duas classes de pacientes, dialisados e transplantados, já foram motivo de diversos estudos. Nos últimos anos, entretanto, grandes progressos foram alcançados nestas duas modalidades terapêuticas, os quais podem ter modificado tanto o tipo de alteração dermatológica associada a estas duas condições, quanto a sua intensidade ou frequência. Este artigo tem como objetivo oferecer uma atualização sobre o tema dermatoses em hemodialisados e transplantados.

FUNDAMENTO: Pacientes em hemodiálise (HD) apresentam risco aumentado de morte cardiovascular. A espessura íntima-média (EIM) e a presença de calcificações arteriais são fatores de risco bem conhecidos para morte cardiovascular em pacientes em HD. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a prevalência de EIM e calcificações em pacientes em HD e correlacionar achados de imagem com dados clínicos e laboratoriais. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal de 75 pacientes em HD por > 12 meses. Os pacientes foram submetidos à ultrassonografia (US) modo-B para determinação da EIM do terço distal das artérias carótidas comuns. As calcificações arteriais foram avaliadas por US de artérias carótidas, femorais e tibiais e consideradas positivas se calcificações fossem encontradas em qualquer sítio arterial. RESULTADOS: Os pacientes tinham 52 ± 13 anos, 57% eram do sexo masculino e 16% eram diabéticos. EIM > 0,9 mm foi encontrada em 57% dos cases e calcificações arteriais na US em 48%. Envelhecimento (décadas) e tabagismo estavam associados com aumento da EIM (odds ratio ajustado [aOR] = 3,4, p < 0,001; aOR = 4,4, p = 0,045, respectivamente) e presença de calcificações vasculares (aOR = 3,0, p < 0,001; aOR = 6,8, p = 0,011, respectivamente). Altos níveis de hormônio paratireoidiano intacto (iPTH) (por 100 pg/ml) estavam associados de forma significante com aumento na EIM (aOR = 1,7, p = 0,021), mas não com calcificação vascular. Em contraste, diabete e tempo de diálise (anos) foram determinantes significantes para calcificações na US (aOR = 15,0, p = 0,009; aOR = 1,39, p = 0,020), mas não para o aumento da EIM. CONCLUSÃO: EIM aumentada e calcificações à US são achados comuns em pacientes em HD. Envelhecimento e tabagismo são determinantes consistentes para ambas as alterações de imagem. Aumento nos níveis de iPTH está associado com aumento na EIM. Diabete e tempo de diálise aumentam de forma substancial o risco de calcificação arterial. BACKGROUND: Patients on hemodialysis present an increased risk of cardiovascular death. Intimal media thickness (IMT) and presence of arterial calcifications are well-known risk factors for cardiovascular death in hemodialysis patients. OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence of IMT and arterial calcifications in HD patients and to correlate image findings with clinical and laboratory data. METHODS: Cross-sectional study involving 75 patients on dialysis for >12 months. Patients underwent B-mode ultrasound scan (US) for determination of IMT of the distal third of the common carotid arteries. Arterial calcifications were assessed by US of carotids, femoral and tibial arteries, and labeled positive if calcification was found in any arterial site. RESULTS: Patients were 52±13 years old, 57% were males and 16% were diabetics. IMT > 0.9 mm was found in 57% of cases and arterial calcifications at US in 48%. Aging (decades) and smoking were associated with both increased IMT (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 3.4, p < 0.001; aOR = 4.4, p = 0.045, respectively) and presence of vascular calcifications (aOR = 3.0, p < 0.001; aOR = 6.8, p = 0.011, respectively). High intact parathyroid hormone levels (per each 100 pg/ml) were significantly associated with increased IMT (aOR = 1.7, p = 0.021), but not with vascular calcification. In contrast, Diabetes and time on dialysis (years) were significant determinants for calcifications at US (aOR = 15.0, p = 0.009; aOR = 1.39, p = 0.020), but not for increased IMT. CONCLUSION: Increased IMT and calcifications at US are common findings in hemodialysis patients. Aging and smoking are consistent determinants for both image alterations. Parathyroid hormone elevation is associated with increased IMT. Diabetes and time on dialysis substantially increase the risk for arterial calcification. FUNDAMENTO: Pacientes en hemodiálisis (HD) presentan riesgo aumentado de muerte cardiovascular. El espesor íntima-media (EIM) y la presencia de calcificaciones arteriales son factores de riesgo bien conocidos de muerte cardiovascular en pacientes en HD. OBJETIVO:Evaluar la prevalencia de EIM y calcificaciones en pacientes en HD y correlacionar hallazgos de imagen con datos clínicos y de laboratorio. MÉTODOS:Estudio transversal de 75 pacientes en HD por >12 meses. Los pacientes fueron sometidos a ultrasonografia (US) modo-B para determinación de la EIM del tercio distal de las arterias carótidas comunes. Las calcificaciones arteriales fueron evaluadas por US de arterias carótidas, femorales y tibiales y consideradas positivas si fuesen encontradas calcificaciones en cualquier sitio arterial. RESULTADOS:Los pacientes tenían 52±13 años, 57% eran del sexo masculino y 16% eran diabéticos. EIM > 0,9mm fue encontrada en 57% de los casos y calcificaciones arteriales en la US en 48%. Envejecimiento (décadas) y tabaquismo estaban asociados a aumento de la EIM (odds ratio ajustado [aOR] = 3,4, p < 0,001; aOR = 4,4, p = 0,045, respectivamente) y presencia de calcificaciones vasculares (aOR = 3,0, p < 0,001; aOR = 6,8, p = 0,011, respectivamente). Altos niveles de hormona paratiroidea intacta (iPTH) (por 100 pg/ml) estaban asociados de forma significativa a aumento en la EIM (aOR = 1,7, p = 0,021), pero no a calcificación vascular. En contraste, diabetes y tiempo de diálisis (años) fueron determinantes significativos para calcificaciones en la US (aOR = 15,0, p = 0,009; aOR = 1,39, p = 0,020), pero no para el aumento de la EIM. CONCLUSIÓN:EIM aumentada y calcificaciones en la US son hallazgos comunes en pacientes en HD. Envejecimiento y tabaquismo son determinantes consistentes para ambas alteraciones de imagen. Aumento en los niveles de iPTH está asociado a aumento en la EIM. Diabetes y tiempo de diálisis aumentan de forma sustancial el riesgo de calcificación arterial.

Autonomic dysfunction is highly prevalent in hemodialysis patients and has been implicated in their increased risk of cardiovascular mortality. Objective To evaluate the ability of different parameters of exercise treadmill test to detect autonomic dysfunction in hemodialysis patients. Methods Cross-sectional study involving hemodialysis patients and a control group. Clinical examination, blood sampling, echocardiogram, 24-hour Holter, and exercise treadmill test were performed. A ramp treadmill protocol symptom-limited with active recovery was employed. Results Forty-one hemodialysis patients and 41 controls concluded the study. There was significant difference between hemodialysis patients and controls in autonomic function parameters in 24h-Holter and exercise treadmill test. Probability of having autonomic dysfunction in hemodialysis patients compared to controls was 29.7 at the exercise treadmill test and 13.0 in the 24-hour Holter. Chronotropic index, heart rate recovery at the 1st min, and SDNN at exercise were used to develop an autonomic dysfunction score to grade autonomic dysfunction, in which, 83% of hemodialysis patients reached a scoring ≥2 in contrast to 20% of controls. Hemodialysis was independently associated with either altered chronotropic index or autonomic dysfunction scoring ≥2 in every tested model (OR=50.1, P=0.003; and OR=270.9, P=0.002, respectively, model 5). Conclusion The exercise treadmill test was feasible and useful to diagnose of the autonomic dysfunction in hemodialysis patients. Chronotropic index and autonomic dysfunction scoring ≥2 were the most effective parameters to differentiate between hemodialysis patients and controls suggesting that these variables portrays the best ability to detect autonomic dysfunction in this setting.

Little attention has been given to the effects of reuse on the permeability of low-flux membranes, especially regarding middle molecules. We studied two different types of low-flux membranes at reuses 0, 6, and 12 in five patients undergoing hemodialysis with the following combinations of membrane and sterilant: cellulose diacetate membrane and formaldehyde, polysulfone membrane and formaldehyde, cellulose diacetate membrane and peracetic acid, and polysulfone and peracetic acid. The permeability of the membranes was assessed through the hydraulic ultrafiltration coefficient (K(UF)), sieving coefficient for beta(2)-microglobulin (B2M), and vitamin B(12) and albumin concentrations in ultrafiltrate. After 12 reuses, total cell volume (TCV) tended to be reduced in both cellulose diacetate and polysulfone dialyzers irrespective of the sterilant used, but significance was only found for the first set of dialyzers. Cellulose diacetate dialyzers reprocessed with either formaldehyde or peracetic acid showed an important reduction in K(UF) (31% [P0.05] and 23% [P0.05], respectively). A significant elevation in K(UF) was found in polysulfone membranes reprocessed with peracetic acid (41%; P0.05), but no alterations in K(UF) were found in polysulfone membranes reprocessed with formaldehyde. Cellulose diacetate membranes were intrinsically more permeable to B2M than polysulfone membranes (sieving coefficient, 6. 85 +/- 2.53 versus 0.04 +/- 0.02 x 10(-2); P0.001), which was not modified by any of the sterilants. Vitamin B(12) levels in ultrafiltrate decreased to an undetectable level in four of five samples collected after 12 reuses in polysulfone membranes reprocessed with peracetic acid (90 +/- 71 to 3 +/- 8 pg/mL; P0. 05 versus reuse 0). Albumin leakage occurred in two of five samples after the 12th reuse, but only in polysulfone membranes reprocessed with peracetic acid. Our findings suggest that reuse of low-flux polysulfone dialyzers reprocessed with peracetic acid is associated with structural damage of the membrane and a reduced permeability to middle molecules.

FUNDAMENTO: O índice tornozelo-braço (ITB) reduzido, inflamação e distúrbio mineral ósseo (DMO) estão associados com aumento no risco de morte e complicações cardiovasculares em pacientes em hemodiálise (HD), mas a relação entre esses fatores necessita ser elucidada. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a associação entre ITB anormal e DMO com inflamação em pacientes em HD. MÉTODOS: Esta análise transversal avaliou 478 pacientes em HD por pelo menos 1 ano. O ITB foi avaliado através de um Doppler portátil e manômetro de coluna de mercúrio. Os pacientes foram divididos em três grupos, de acordo com o ITB (baixo: 1,3). As medidas de proteína C-reativa foram utilizadas como marcador inflamatório, enquanto a DMO foi avaliada através dos níveis de cálcio, fósforo e hormônio paratireoidiano intacto (iPTH). RESULTADOS: Os participantes tinham 54 (18 a 75) anos, 56% eram do sexo masculino, 17% eram diabéticos e estavam em HM por 5 (1 a 35) anos. A prevalência de ITB baixo, normal e alto AAI foi 26,8%, 64,6% e 8,6%, respectivamente. Usando um modelo de regressão logística condicional com procedimento backward, idade (p6 mg/L (p= 0,006) estavam associados com a presença de ITB baixo, enquanto o sexo masculino (p1.3). C-reactive protein measurement was used as an inflammatory marker, whereas MBD was evaluated by calcium, phosphorus and intact parathyroid hormone levels. RESULTS: Participants were 54 (18 to 75) years old, 56% males, 17% diabetics, and had been on hemodialysis for a mean of 5 (1 to 35) years. The prevalence of low, normal and high AAI was 26.8%, 64.6% and 8.6%, respectively. Using a backward conditional logistic regression model, age (p6 mg/L (p= 0.006) were associated with the presence of low AAI, whereas male gender (p 1,3). Las mediciones de proteína C-reactiva se utilizaron como marcador inflamatorio, mientras que la TMO se evaluó a través de los niveles de calcio, fósforo y hormona paratiroidea intacta (iPTH). RESULTADOS: Los participantes tenían 54 (18-75) años, el 56% eran del sexo masculino, el 17% eran diabéticos y estaban se encontraban en HD por 5 (1 a 35) años. La prevalencia de ITB bajo, normal y alto ITB fue de un 26,8%, un 64,6% y un 8,6% respectivamente. Al utilizar un modelo de regresión logística condicional con el procedimiento backward (hacia atrás), diabetes (p < 0,001), y niveles de proteína C-reactiva > 6 mg/l (p = 0,006) estaban asociados con la presencia de ITB bajo, mientras que el sexo masculino (p < 0,001), diabetes (p = 0,001) y producto calcio x fósforo elevado (p = 0,026) estaban asociados con ITB alto. CONCLUSIÓN: En los pacientes en HD, la presencia de la diabetes estaba asociada con ITB alto y bajo. El riesgo de tener ITB bajo parece aumentar con la edad y la inflamación, mientras que la TMO estaba asociada con ITB alta. (Arq Bras Cardiol 2011;96(5):405-410)

Recently, the world is facing an escalate in the incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Databases containing information about patients in end stage renal disease (ESRD), especially in the United States, were the sources of initial information about it. Brazil has the third largest population on dialysis in the world, and there are about 680 dialysis centers, spread across all units of the federation in the present, providing treatment to an estimated population of almost 90,000 patients. Cutaneous involvement in the chronic renal failure is characterized by a number of manifestations, which may be related to three processes: the primary renal disease, the uremic state, or the therapeutic measures used in their handling. The skin changes in these two classes of patients, dialysis and transplant recipients, have been the subject of several studies. n recent years, however, great progress has been achieved in these two therapeutic modalities, which may have changed not only the type of the dermatologic disorders associated with these two conditions, but also their intensity or frequency. This article aims to yield an update as to the topic skin diseases in hemodialysis and kidney transplant patients.

Patients on hemodialysis present an increased risk of cardiovascular death. Intimal media thickness (IMT) and presence of arterial calcifications are well-known risk factors for cardiovascular death in hemodialysis patients.To assess the prevalence of IMT and arterial calcifications in HD patients and to correlate image findings with clinical and laboratory data.Cross-sectional study involving 75 patients on dialysis for12 months. Patients underwent B-mode ultrasound scan (US) for determination of IMT of the distal third of the common carotid arteries. Arterial calcifications were assessed by US of carotids, femoral and tibial arteries, and labeled positive if calcification was found in any arterial site.Patients were 52±13 years old, 57% were males and 16% were diabetics. IMT0.9 mm was found in 57% of cases and arterial calcifications at US in 48%. Aging (decades) and smoking were associated with both increased IMT (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 3.4, p0.001; aOR = 4.4, p = 0.045, respectively) and presence of vascular calcifications (aOR = 3.0, p0.001; aOR = 6.8, p = 0.011, respectively). High intact parathyroid hormone levels (per each 100 pg/ml) were significantly associated with increased IMT (aOR = 1.7, p = 0.021), but not with vascular calcification. In contrast, Diabetes and time on dialysis (years) were significant determinants for calcifications at US (aOR = 15.0, p = 0.009; aOR = 1.39, p = 0.020), but not for increased IMT.Increased IMT and calcifications at US are common findings in hemodialysis patients. Aging and smoking are consistent determinants for both image alterations. Parathyroid hormone elevation is associated with increased IMT. Diabetes and time on dialysis substantially increase the risk for arterial calcification.

A taxa de mortalidade entre os pacientes em hemodiálise (HD) é extremamente elevada. A expectativa de vida restante de um paciente ao iniciar HD é apenas cerca de um quarto daquela da população geral com a mesma idade. O esquema convencional de HD, com três sessões semanais de cerca de quatro horas, foi estabelecido de maneira empírica há cerca de quatro décadas e merece ser reavaliado criticamente. Desde a falha do Estudo HEMO em demonstrar benefícios clínicos com o aumento do Kt/V de ureia nos pacientes em esquema convencional de HD, tem havido um crescente interesse pelos esquemas alternativos de HD com o intuito de prover um tratamento associado com uma melhor sobrevida. Dentre os esquemas mais promissores, destacam-se a HD diária de curta duração e a HD noturna prolongada. As limitações econômicas que inibem a aplicação dos conhecimentos emergentes nesta área devem ser vencidas. The mortality rate among patients on hemodialysis (HD) is extremely high. Remaining life expectancy for a patient initiating HD is only approximately one quarter of that of the general population at the same age bracket. The conventional HD regimen based on four-hour sessions three times a week was empirically established nearly four decades ago and needs to be revisited. Since the failure of the HEMO Study to demonstrate the clinical benefits of higher urea Kt/V for patients on conventional HD, an increasing interest for alternative HD regimens has emerged aiming at providing a treatment for improving survival rates. Short daily HD and long nocturnal HD stand out as the most promising alternative regimens. Economical obstacles which could hinder the clinical application of emerging knowledge in the field should be overcome.

The mortality rate among patients on hemodialysis (HD) is extremely high. Remaining life expectancy for a patient initiating HD is only approximately one quarter of that of the general population at the same age bracket. The conventional HD regimen based on four-hour sessions three times a week was empirically established nearly four decades ago and needs to be revisited. Since the failure of the HEMO Study to demonstrate the clinical benefits of higher urea Kt/V for patients on conventional HD, an increasing interest for alternative HD regimens has emerged aiming at providing a treatment for improving survival rates. Short daily HD and long nocturnal HD stand out as the most promising alternative regimens. Economical obstacles which could hinder the clinical application of emerging knowledge in the field should be overcome.