Effect of Intravenous Saccharated Ferric Oxide on Serum FGF23 and Mineral Metabolism in Hemodialysis Patients

Abstract

Background/Aims: Fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF23) plays a central role in the development of hypophosphatemia and inappropriately low 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D induced by iron therapy for iron-deficiency anemia. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of intravenous saccharated ferric oxide on serum FGF23 levels and mineral metabolism in hemodialysis patients. Methods: This prospective study enrolled 27 hemodialysis patients who had iron-deficiency anemia defined by a hemoglobin concentration <10.5 g/dl and serum ferritin <100 ng/ml. Intravenous saccharated ferric oxide at a dose of 40 mg was administered three times weekly over 3 weeks. The dose of active vitamin D and phosphate binders was kept unchanged. Serum FGF23, intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) and other parameters were prospectively monitored for 5 weeks. Results: Serum FGF23 levels were markedly elevated [3,453 (338–6,383) pg/ml] at baseline. After 3 weeks of intravenous saccharated ferric oxide treatment, serum FGF23 further increased to 4,701 (1,251–14,396) pg/ml, and returned to the baseline values after 2 weeks of observation. There was also a significant decrease in intact PTH but no changes in serum calcium and phosphorus. Conclusions: Intravenous saccharated ferric oxide induces further increase in elevated FGF23 levels in hemodialysis patients. This increase does not induce hypophosphatemia and inappropriately low 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D in the absence of functioning kidney, but may result in transient PTH suppression – possibly by directly acting on the parathyroid.