Vitamin D Supplementation May Benefit Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease undergoing Hemodialysis.

In a retrospective study involving 142 patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) undergoing hemodialysis, results indicate that serum vitamin D levels may be inversely associated with erythropoietin responsiveness. After adjusting for potential confounders, serum 25-hydroxy-cholecalciferol [25(OH)D3] concentration was independently associated with hemoglobin (Hb) and ESA (erythropoiesis-stimulating agents) / Hb index. Thus, the authors of this study conclude, "Serum 25(OH)D(3) concentration is independently associated with erythropoietin responsiveness in CKD patients on maintenance HD. If this association will be confirmed, treatment trials looking at the effect of vitamin D supplementation on anemia treatment in CKD patients may be warranted." [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]