Average Serum Creatinine Level Research Articles

Robot-assisted kidney transplantation: initial experience from a tertiary hospital in China

Abstract Background Robot-assisted kidney transplantation (RAKT) has currently become an effective alternative to open kidney transplantation (OKT), which has long been considered the gold standard for kidney transplant surgery. This study aimed to summarize our initial experience with RAKT and explore its safety and feasibility. Materials and methods Ten cases of RAKT, including 8 cases of deceased-donor kidney transplantation and 2 cases of living-donor kidney transplantation, were performed at our center from March 2023 to November 2023. Perioperative clinical data and follow-up results of patients were collected and statistically analyzed. Results All RAKT surgeries were performed successfully with no complications. The average operative time was 297.90 ± 65.59 minutes, and the median estimated blood loss was 100 mL. The average serum creatinine level decreased from 918.14 ± 166.63 μmol/L preoperatively to 109.89 ± 29.89 μmol/L at discharge. The postoperative outcomes of RAKT from both deceased and living donors were satisfactory during the follow-up period. Conclusions RAKT is an effective alternative to OKT and is suitable for both deceased- and living-donor kidney transplantations. The postoperative outcomes were satisfactory, and the postoperative complications were acceptable. RAKT appears to be a safe and feasible procedure for transplantation teams skilled in OKT and robot-assisted surgery.

#1793 Association of low serum complement C3 with reduced renal survival in ANCA associated vasculitis

Abstract Background and Aims ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) is a condition that remains poorly understood. Recent data suggest the existence of a complement alternative pathway activation in the pathogenesis of this disease. And recent studies have correlated low complement levels to unfavourable outcomes. Our study aimed to determine whether low serum C3 levels could be used to estimate the severity of AAV and predict renal survival. Method Our study enrolled 26 patients diagnosed with AAV between January 2013 and January 2023. C3 levels were assessed at the time of diagnosis, and patients were categorized into two groups: those with low serum C3 levels and those with normal serum C3 levels (0.9–1.8 g/l). We examined the correlation between serum C3 levels and the severity of AAV at the time of diagnosis, as well as renal survival. Results The average age at diagnosis was 52.5 years, with 15 male patients (57.69%). All patients had kidney involvement, 30% of patients had respiratory symptoms (mostly due to diffuse alveolar hemorrhage) 42% had Ear Nose Throat system involvement 15% had nervous symptoms and 38% had skin signs. The mean Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score (BVAS) at presentation was 20, and the average serum creatinine level was 360 µmol/l. The mean serum C3 and C4 levels were 108.3 and 24.5 mg/dL, respectively. Forty-two percent of the patients (eleven patients) had a low serum C3 level at presentation. Low C3 level was significantly correlated with poor renal survival (p: 0.031) and relapse after 6 months of immunosuppressive treatment (p: 0.02). Furthermore, remission at 6 months was significantly more frequent in patients with normal C3 levels. Conclusion The assessment of C3 level in AAV can be a valuable tool to predict the disease severity. Hypocomplementemia can predict worse renal outcome. This phenotype may confer a poor response to usual immunosuppressive approaches. Corresponding patients may greatly benefit from complement-targeting therapy.

Efek Ekstrak Etanol Daun Kelor terhadap Kadar Kreatinin Serum dan Superoksida Dismutase Tikus Model 5/6 Subtotal Nefrektomi

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is still a major problem in the health sector in the world, including in Indonesia. One of the main pathomechanisms in CKD is oxidative stress. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is an enzyme that plays a role in fighting oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can be overcome with antioxidants both from inside the body and from the outside obtained from natural materials. Moringa leaves (Moringa oleifera L.) have the potential to prevent the progressivity of CKD because of their flavonoid content which has an antioxidant effect. This study aimed to analyze the effect of Moringa leaf ethanol extract (MLEE) on serum creatinine and SOD levels in rat model 5/6 subtotal nephrectomy. This research is an experimental study with a post-test only with a control group design. A total of 30 male white rats were randomly divided into 5 groups. Group A: sham control, B: subtotal nephrectomy, C, D, and E: treatment groups with MLEE of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg BW, respectively. On the 15th day after the administration of extracts or aqua dest, sham surgery was carried out in group A, and 5/6 of subtotal nephrectomy in groups B, C, D, and E continued to administer extracts and aqua dest until the 21st day. A blood sample is taken on the 22nd day after surgery, checked serum creatinine levels and SOD. Data were analyzed using One-way ANOVA. The results showed that there was a significant difference in the average serum creatinine levels (p

Thyroid Dysfunction and Renal Function: A Crucial Relationship to Recognize.

Renal function is noticeably altered in both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. However, clinical studies on thyroid dysfunction and its association with renal function are scarce. The purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in biochemical parameters of renal function in subjects with thyroid dysfunction and to correlate these values with the patient's thyroid profile. The effect of changes in thyroid function during therapy on renal function was also investigated. Aprospective cohort study included 41 patients with untreated primary hypothyroidism and 16 patients with untreated hyperthyroidism. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine, and free triiodothyronine were assessed using immunoassay. The estimated glomerular filtration rate was calculated by the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease formula. Renal function tests were assessed in all patients at each of the two-time points: during thyroid dysfunction (hypo- or hyperthyroidism) and after attaining euthyroidism. Our study demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in the average serum creatinine level in the hypothyroid patients after treatment compared to before treatment whereas the mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) significantly improved after treatment compared to before treatment. Moreover, the average serum creatinine level in the hyperthyroid patients was significantly lower before treatment compared to after treatment, whereas the mean eGFR significantly dropped after treatment. TSH had a significant positive correlation with serum creatinine and a significant negative correlation with eGFR in all patients with thyroid dysfunction. Thyroid dysfunction is associated with deranged kidney function. It is crucial for the clinician to be aware of the link between thyroid disorders and aberrant renal function in order to consider a thyroid function test when treating a patient whose biochemical markers of renal function are only mildly elevated. There is a need for monitoring creatinine in patients with thyroid dysfunction.

Metabolic Effects of Recombinant Human Growth Hormone Replacement Therapy on Juvenile Patients after Craniopharyngioma Resection.

Objective: To investigate the effect of short-term recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) replacement therapy on metabolic parameters in juvenile patients following craniopharyngioma (CP) resection. Methods. This retrospective study included 42 cases of juvenile patients that had undergone CP resection in the Department of Endocrinology at the Peking Union Medical College Hospital, from April 2013 to August 2020. According to whether they received growth hormone replacement therapy, the patients were divided into either the growth hormone replacement therapy (GHRT) group (30 cases) or the control group (12 cases). Changes in body mass index (BMI), BMI z-score, transaminase activity, fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels, blood lipid profile, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels were evaluated after one year of GHRT treatment. Results. The average age of the GHRT group was 13.00 (8.00–14.00) years old and these patients had undergone a CP operation an average of 2.00 (1.62–3.15) years earlier. Prior to receiving GHRT treatment, they received appropriate doses of adrenocortical hormone and thyroid hormone replacement therapy. After one year of GHRT treatment, the average BMI z-score decreased from 1.60 ± 1.76 to 1.13 ± 1.73 (P=0.005). Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity decreased from 26.50 (17.00∼98.00) U/L to 18.00 (13.00∼26.48) U/L (P ≤ 0.001), and similar changes were observed with regard to aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and glutamyl transferase (GGT) activity in the GHRT treatment group. The average total cholesterol (TC) decreased from 4.67 (4.10–6.14) mmol/L to 4.32 ± 0.85 mmol/L (P=0.002), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels decreased from 3.05 ± 0.95 mmol/L to 2.56 ± 0.65 mmol/L (P=0.001) in the GHRT treatment group. The average blood urea nitrogen level decreased from 4.53 ± 1.09 mmol/L to 3.92 ± 0.82 mmol/L (P=0.016) and the average serum creatinine (SCr) level decreased from 55.59 ± 12.54 µmol/L to 51.15 ± 10.51 µmol/L (P=0.005) in the GHRT treatment group. The average hsCRP level decreased from 3.23 (1.79∼4.34) mg/L to 0.92 (0.42∼1.21) mg/L in the GHRT treatment group. In the control group, the average ALT activity increased from 26.58 ± 8.75 U/L to 42.58 ± 24.59 U/L (P=0.039), GGT activity increased from 19.0 (13.25–29.25) U/L to 25.00 (14.75–34.75) U/L (P=0.026), and LDL levels increased from 2.27 ± 0.76 mmol/L to 3.43 ± 1.28 mmol/L (P=0.04). Conclusion. GHRT treatment improves the metabolic parameters of juvenile patients that have undergone craniopharyngioma resection by reducing BMI z-scores, low-density lipoprotein, and hsCRP levels and improving liver function.

Ampicillin/sulbactam versus cefazolin plus aminoglycosides for antimicrobial prophylaxis in management of Gustilo type IIIA open fractures: A retrospective cohort study

BackgroundThe antibiotic regimens for prophylaxis in the management of open fractures remain controversial. Although the use of aminoglycosides is widely accepted for treatment of Gustilo type III open fractures, aminoglycosides are often avoided in patients with risk factors. This study aimed to compare efficacy and safety of two regimens, cephazolin plus aminoglycoside (amikacin or gentamicin) and ampicillin/sulbactam (ABPC/SBT), in patients with Gustilo type IIIA open fractures. MethodsA total of 95 Gustilo type IIIA fractures in 90 patients were retrospectively reviewed in this study. The cohort was categorized into two groups that were treated in accordance with the institutional prescribed regimen in different periods: (1) cefazolin plus aminoglycoside (January 1, 2014–September 30, 2017) and (2) ABPC/SBT monotherapy (October 1, 2017–September 30, 2020). Cefazolin was used at 1–2 g every 8 h, aminoglycoside (amikacin or gentamicin) was used daily depending on body weight, and ABPC/SBT was used at 3 g every 8 h The antibiotic administration was continued within 3 days or until successful soft tissue coverage was achieved. The infection rate and the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) in both groups were assessed. ResultsABPC/SBT was used in 34 patients (36 fractures), and 56 patients (59 fractures) received cefazolin plus aminoglycoside for antibiotic prophylaxis. Infection developed in 2 of 36 fractures in ABPC/SBT group and 4 of 59 fractures in the cefazolin plus aminoglycoside group (p > 0.99). The average serum creatinine levels on admission, baseline, and peak during the hospital stay were not significantly different between the two groups. One case of AKI was identified in each group, indicating that incidence rate of AKI was not significantly different between the two groups. ConclusionWe demonstrated the non-inferiority of ABPC/SBT therapy over cefazolin plus aminoglycoside regimen for type IIIA open fractures. The ABPC/SBT regimen may be an alternative option for managing Gustilo type IIIA open fractures. Further prospective studies with larger samples are needed to verify these results.

Risk Factors of Heart Failure among the Patients Suffering from Hypertension Attending a Hospital in Islamabad, Pakistan

Objective: To determine the risk factors of heart failure (HF) in the hypertensive cases attending the cardiology unit of tertiary care Hospital.
 Methods: This Case-Control study was conducted from April 2020 to May 2021 at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad. One hundred (100) patients of sex - and age -matched pairs were included in the study. Adults clinically diagnosed as cases of Hypertensive heart failure (HF) and individuals having systemic hypertension but no HF (controls) were included in the study. Cardiovascular risk factors were assessed by the questioner. Assessment of the study variables was done and the data analysis was carried out using SPSS version 26.
 Results: A total of one hundred (100) cases and 100 cases as controls were studied. The average age of the study subjects (cases) was 38.4±9.28 years and 38.35±9.04 years of controls. Males were in majority in both groups. Obesity, renal impairment and hypertension in the first degree relative were higher in the hypertensive heart failure in contrast to controls. Average proteinuria and serum creatinine level were higher among study subjects compared to controls (p-<0.05). Medication adherences were considerably higher among the subjects in the control group than in the subjects of case group. Hypertension control group members were more inclined to eat vegetables and fruits on a daily basis, whereas no significant difference was found in the consumption of the salt between the cases and controls. History of anti-hypertensive drugs intake, lower intake of vegetables and fruits, and medication adherence represented the highest levels amongst the risk factors.
 Conclusion: In the conclusion of current study, the particular lifestyle, poor dietary habits, medication adherence, and lack of exercise were observed to be the commonest risk factors of heart failure. Awareness programs should be expanded in general and specialty health care settings.

P0427IGA GLOMERULONEPHRITIS WITH MASSIVE PROTEINURIA- CASE SERIES WITH CLINICAL AND PATHOHISTOLOGICAL REVIEW

Abstract Background and Aims IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common glomerulonephritis worldwide. The classic manifestation of IgAN is episodic hematuria and proteinuria. Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is not common in IgAN. It is reported to occur in 5-10% of patients with IgAN. Clinical presentation with massive proteinuria is exceptional. Method We retrospectively analyzed patients with pathohistologically proven IgAN who initially presented with 24h proteinuria greater than 10 gr. Here we presented their clinical, biochemical and pathohistological (electron microscopy-EM, was provided in all cases) characteristics with clinical outcomes. Data were taken from Renal biopsy Registry of Department of Nephrology Dubrava University hospital. Results All together 12 patients (10 M, 2 F) average age 53 (range 25-81) years were included. This represents 3,2% of all IgAN patients in our Renal biopsy Registry (presently there are more than 2100 patients in total, 366 with IgAN). Arterial hypertension had 10 out of 12 patients and three patients had diabetes mellitus type 2. Other significant comorbidities included lung adenocarcinoma in one patient, history of preeclampsia, mitral valve replacement surgery and liver cirrhosis, each in one patient. Average serum creatinine level at presentation was 223,9 (90-549) µmol/L and average 24h proteinuria was 14,6 (10,2-32) gr. All patients had haematuria. Renal insufficiency was found in 7 patients and additionally in two patients rapidoprogressive clinical pattern was recognized. Oxford classification was applied for all patients. In all except one, mesangial hypercellularity (M1) was found, endocapillary proliferation (E1) in 4 and cellular crescents in 5 patients (C1 in 4, C2 in 1 patient). The average percentage of globally sclerosing glomeruli was 32% (10-85%) and IFTA was 33% (10-60%), respectively. On EM diffuse podocyte foot processes effacement was documented only in two patients. In patients with diabetes mellitus there were not signs of diabetic nephropathy (i.e. thickened GBM on EM). Two patients who presented with purpuric rash and arthritis were considered to have IgA vasculitis (Henoch Schoenlein purpura). Considering treatment, glucocorticosteroids and RAAS blockators (apart from those who were dialysis dependent) were introduced. Five patients were also treated with cyclophosphamide. Average time of follow-up was 53 months (2-156). Regarding clinical outcomes, 4 patients achieved remission (2 partial and 2 complete). One of those experienced clinical relaps and underwent kidney rebiosy. In one patient stationary course and in another one progression of renal insufficiency were noted. Both patients diagnosed as IgA vasculitis were dialysis depended at presentation and during follow-up period unfortunately died. Two more patients died latter on as a consequence of a non-renal disorders. One more patient who developed ESRD was transplanted but afterwards he rejected the graft. One patient was lost from follow-up. Conclusion Proteinuria is well known independent progression risk factor in IgAN. In presented study we showed that almost one third of IgAN patients who manifested with massive proteinuria ended up in ESRD in relatively short follow-up period.

P0471DIALYSIS TREATMENT AT THE TIME OF DIAGNOSIS PREDICTS OUTCOMES IN ANCA ASSOCIATED VASCULITIS PATIENTS - DATA FROM CROATIAN REFERRAL CENTER

Abstract Background and Aims Dialysis dependence and ESRD are known complications of ANCA associated vasculitis (AAV) with renal involvement. What is not so often discussed is the role of dialysis treatment at the time of diagnosis and how it affects patient outcomes as well as characteristics of such patients. We present data showing the importance of dialysis treatment at the time of diagnosis as the predictor of clinical outcomes. Method This study included 106 consecutive AAV patients with renal involvement in the period from 2007-2017. We performed renal biopsy on patients using automatic 16 Gauge needle. Light, immunofluorescent and electronic microscopy were performed. Primary outcomes were combined outcome progression to end-stage renal disease, defined as persistent (more than three months) need for renal replacement therapy or permanent reduction of EGFR to <15ml/minute (according to CKD EPI formula) and/or death (ESRDD), death (D) and ESRD alone, and disease relapse. Kaplan Meyer survival analysis and multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis were used to explore difference between phenotypes and finding significant predictors regarding outcomes. Results Out of 106 patients (55,6% female, median age 61; IQR 51-70) there were 66 (61,1%) microscopic poliangitiis (MPA), 20 (18,5%) granulomatosis with angitiis and 20 (18,5%) with renal limited vasculitis (RLV). Out of those 14 (13%) were PR3-ANCA positive patients, 57 (52,8%) MPO ANCA positive, 5 (4,6%) PR3-ANCA+MPO-ANCA positive and 32 (29,6%) ANCA negative patients. Average serum creatinine (SCr) levels was 316,5 μmol/l (IQR 207,0-548,5), 24-hour proteinuria median was 1,7g/24h (IQR 0,8-2,8). According to the Berden classification 43 (39,8%) patients had crescentic, 19 (17,6%) focal, 34 (31,5%) mixed and 12 (11,1%) sclerotic class. Follow up time ranged from 1 to 127 months. Median follow up time was 21 months (IQR = 7-44). Median time to diagnosis was 3 months (IQR 2,0-6,0). Patients requiring dialysis treatment at the time of diagnosis were more often MPO – (p=0,04), had more severe anemia (p=0,001), higher CRP (p=0,003), and more pronounced hypoalbuminemia (serums albumin <30g/l; p=0,006).Such patients were older than those not requiring dialysis (p=0,055) na had shorter time to diagnosis (p=0,001). Clinically such patient s presented more often with RPGN (p<0,001) which is in a way expected thus having higher SCr levels (p=<0,001). Histologically dialysis treated patients predominantly had crescentic class, while non-dialysis group had focal class (p<0,001). Of note dialysis group had more acute tubular damage (p=0,007). Interestingly enough there was slightly more positive C3 deposition in dialysis group (p=0,09). In univariate analysis the need for acute dialysis at the time of diagnosis of AAV was significant predictor for combined ESRDD, D, ESRD and relapse rate. In multivariate analysis the need for acute dialysis at the time of diagnosis of AAV remained significant predictor for ESRD (HR = 4,674, 95% CI =1,996-10,946; p = < 0,001) and relapse rate (HR = 59,545, 95% CI =3,467-1022,665; p = 0,005). Conclusion The need for dialysis at the time of AAV diagnosis is a strong predictor for ESRD and relapse rate. It is also interesting to further study differences between patients needing dialysis at the time of diagnosis and those who don’t need it.

P0332DIAGNOSTIC, THERAPEUTIC AND EVOLUTIONARY FEATURES OF KIDNEY DISEASE IN MULTIPLE MYELOMA

Abstract Background and Aims Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant disease of plasma cells. It’s is characterized by clonal proliferation of malignant plasma cells producing monoclonal proteins and causing organ damage. Kidney injury is a common complication of multiple myeloma. Multiple pathogenic mechanisms can contribute to kidney injury in the patient with myeloma, some of which are the result of nephrotoxic monoclonal immunoglobulin and some of which are independent of paraprotein deposition. Method We conducted a retrospective study, from January 1974 to June 2019, including all cases of multiple myeloma with renal impairment treated in our Department. The objective of this study is to analyze the epidemiological and clinico-biological characteristics of MM with renal impairment and to identify the predictive factors of mortality. Results We collected 196 cases. The average age was 63.47 years (31-86 years) with a male predominance (sex ratio 1.27). The circumstances of discovery was dominated by asthenia, anorexia and weight loss in 150 cases (76.5%). Renal involvement was present at the time of diagnosis of myeloma in 138 patients (70.4%) with an average serum creatinine level of 686.42 μmol/l (92-2960 μmol/L). The average hemoglobin level was 8.05 ± 2.4 g/dl. The average 24-hour proteinuria was 2.62 ± 2.11 g/24h. The renal biopsy puncture was performed in 48 patients (24.4%), revealing myelomatous tubulopathy in 16.32% of cases, AL amyloidosis in 5.1% of patients, Randall disease in 3.06% of patients, nodular glomerulosclerosis in 1% of cases and membranous nephropathy in one patient. In our series, 170 patients received chemotherapy. Of the patients, 25.5% required hemodialysis at the time of diagnosis of MM. In our series, 66.83% progressed to the end stage renal disease, 25.5% were in partial remission and 2.05% in total remission. The causes of death were dominated by infectious complications (14.97%). The average renal survival was 4 months. The prognostic factors correlated with poor renal survival were tobacco (p = 0.01), serum uric acid> 600 μmol/l (p = 0.04) and 24-hour proteinuria> 5g/24h (p = 0.009). Conclusion Renal involvement is frequent in multiple myeloma. The spectrum of renal lesions is heterogeneous, and it determines the management and prognosis of MM so the factors associated with renal recovery should be studied further.

R-DHA-oxaliplatin (R-DHAOx) versus R-DHA-cisplatin (R-DHAP) regimen in B-cell lymphoma treatment: A eight-year trajectory study.

The R-DHAP regimen (rituximab, cisplatin, dexamethasone, and high-dose cytarabine) is standardly used to treat relapsed Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Despite scarce data, cisplatin is frequently substituted with oxaliplatin (R-DHAOx) to avoid nephrotoxicity. We compared nephrotoxicity of cisplatin and oxaliplatin based on creatinine-based trajectory modeling. All patients with NHL treated by R-DHAP or R-DHAOx in Angers hospital between January 01, 2007, and December 31, 2014, were included. Patients received cisplatin 100mg/m2 or oxaliplatin 130mg/m2 (d1) with cytarabine (2000mg/m2 , two doses, d2), dexamethasone (40mg, d1-4), and rituximab (375mg/m2 , d1). Creatinine levels were recorded before each cycle. Individual profiles of trajectories were clustered to detect homogeneous patterns of evolution. Twenty-two patients received R-DHAP, 35 R-DHAOx, 6 switched from R-DHAP to R-DHAOx due to nephrotoxicity. Characteristics of patients were similar between two groups. Patients receiving R-DHAP experienced more severe renal injury than patients receiving R-DHAOx (68% vs. 7.7%, P<.001). Two homogeneous clusters appeared: cluster A, with a majority of R-DHAOx (32, 91.4%), was less nephrotoxic than B, with a majority of R-DHAP (19, 86.4%), with a decreased average serum creatinine level (P<.0001). There were no other differences between clusters. Our study confirms that R-DHAOx regimen causes less nephrotoxicity than R-DHAP regimen.

Glomerular Filtration Rate Calculation Based on Serum Creatinin and Cystatin C in Type 2 Diabetic Patients

Glomerular Filtration Rate Calculation Based on Serum Creatinin and Cystatin C in Type 2 Diabetic Patients

Surgical management of pyelo-ureteral junction syndrome in a resource-limited setting: case of Zinder National Hospital, Niger

BackgroundPyelo-ureteral junction syndrome (PUJS) is a frequent congenital malformation. We report the surgical management of PUJS by pyeloplasty according to Anderson-Hyne-Kuss’s procedure at the Zinder National Hospital..MethodsThis was a retrospective study from January 2013 to December 2016 (4 years), including patients who have undergone surgery for PUJS.ResultsTwelve (12) cases of PUJS had a surgery among which 66.7% were men with an average age of 32.5 ± 7.6 years. The clinical symptomatology was lumbar pain or renal colic in 92.3% of cases. This pain had evolved for more than 2 years for 58.3% of the cases. Ultrasound coupled with intravenous urography or CT-scan was performed to confirm the diagnosis of PUJS in 58.3 and 41.7% of cases. The average serum creatinine level at admission was 181.25 ± 67.3 μmol/L [Lab reference range: 53–97 μmol/L]. The Anderson-Hynes non dismembered pyeloplasty is used for all the patients. The release of a crossing lower pole vessel was performed in 25%, pyelolithotomy in 16.7%. The average surgery time was 118.3 ± 20.7 min. The average hospital length of stay was 10.8 ± 3 days. Immediate postoperative complications were recorded in 33.3% (n = 4). Postoperative outcomes were considered good by disappearance of clinical, biological and radiological signs.ConclusionThe Anderson-Hynes non dismembered pyeloplasty gives good results and provides a successful alternative in an environment where laparoscopy and robotic surgery are not developed.

The Role of MicroRNA-21 in Venous Neointimal Hyperplasia: Implications for Targeting miR-21 for VNH Treatment.

The molecular mechanism of hemodialysis access arteriovenous fistula (AVF) failure due to venous neointimal hyperplasia (VNH) is not known. The role of microRNA-21 (miR-21) in VNH associated with AVF failure was investigated by performing in vivo and in vitro experiments. In situ hybridization results revealed that miR-21 expression increased and was associated with fibroblasts in failed AVFs from patients. In a murine AVF model, qRT-PCR gene expression results showed a significant increase in miR-21 and a decrease in miR-21 target genes in graft veins (GVs) compared to contralateral veins in mouse AVF. miR-21 knockdown in GVs was performed using a lentivirus-mediated small hairpin RNA (shRNA), and this improved AVF patency with a decrease in neointima compared to control GVs. Moreover, loss of miR-21 in GVs significantly decreased the Tgfβ1, Col-Ia, and Col-Iva genes. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated a significant decrease in myofibroblasts and proliferation with an increase in terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining in miR-21-knockdown vessels, along with a decrease in hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) and phospho-SMAD2 (pSMAD-2) and phospho-SMAD3 (pSMAD-3) and an increase in phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) staining. Hypoxic fibroblast knockdown for miR-21 showed a significant decrease in Tgfβ-1 expression and pSMAD-2 and -3 levels and a decrease in myofibroblasts. These results indicate that miR-21 upregulation causes VNH formation by fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation.

Low serum creatinine and risk of diabetes: The Japan Epidemiology Collaboration on Occupational Health Study.

Aims/IntroductionWe examined a prospective association between serum creatinine levels and diabetes.Materials and MethodsThe present study included 31,343 male workers without diabetes, and aged between 20 and 64 years at baseline. We calculated the cumulative average of their serum creatinine over the study period. We defined diabetes as either glycated hemoglobin levels ≥6.5%, random glucose levels ≥200 mg/dL, fasting glucose levels ≥126 mg/dL or receiving antidiabetic treatment. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was carried out to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).ResultsWith a median observation of 7.7 years, 2,509 participants developed diabetes. After adjusting for age, smoking, body mass index, hypertension and dyslipidemia, lower cumulative average serum creatinine levels were related to a greater diabetes risk: HRs were 1.56 (95% CI 1.35–1.82), 1.22 (1.09–1.35) and 1.06 (0.96–1.17) for the participants with serum creatinine <0.70, 0.70–0.79 and 0.80–0.89 mg/dL, respectively, compared with those with 0.90–1.20 mg/dL (P for trend <0.001). The serum creatinine‐diabetes association was more pronounced among older adults (serum creatinine <0.70 vs 0.90–1.20 mg/dL, HR 1.66, 95% CI 1.37–2.00) than younger adults (HR 1.32, 95% CI 1.02–1.71; P for interaction by age group = 0.001).ConclusionsLow serum creatinine is associated with an increased risk of diabetes. Screening serum creatinine levels can be used to identify those who are at high risk of diabetes.

Management of Emphysematous Pyelonephritis and Subsequent Renal Functional Outcome

Background &amp; objective: Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is an acute severe necrotizing infection of the renal parenchyma and its surrounding tissues that is caused by the presence of gas in the renal parenchyma, collecting system or perinephric tissue.The present study was intended to assess the functional status of the emphysematous kidney recovered from infection after treatment.&#x0D; Methods: This prospective study was conducted on 50 consecutive cases of emphysematous pyelonephritis, who were admitted in BIRDEM General Hospital from January 2011 to June 2012. Patients with EPN were selected after taking history, clinical examination and radiological image findings. Based on clinical parameter and radiological grading, patients were categorized for medical or surgical intervention. The forms of surgeries were open drainage or nephrectomy. Renal parenchymal destruction more than 50% on CT required nephrectomy.&#x0D; Results: The mean age of the patients at diagnosis was 47.5 ± 11.8 years (range: 26-70 years). The patients were predominantly female (82%), invariably diabetic and primarily presented with fever (88%) and loin pain (82%) followed by dysuria (60%). Over three-quarters (78%) of the patients had poor glycemic control (HbA1c &gt;7%) and over half (54%) were classified as having class 1 or 2 disease and the rest had class 3 and 4 diseases. Escherichia coli was the commonest pathogen found in urine cultures (70%). Over half (56%) received medical treatment alone. In the surgical intervention group, patients were mostly toxic with spreading or severe localized infection, fever and were deteriorating or static even after three days of aggressive intravenous antibiotic treatment. Of the 22 patients who underwent surgery, nephrectomy was performed in 8(16%) and open drainage in 14(28%) cases. The overall survival rate was 94%. Average serum creatinine level was found to decrease gradually during follow up. The function of the preserved kidney was found to improve in the subsequent follow up.&#x0D; Conclusion: Emphysematous pyelonephritis predominantly affects diabetic females. Kidney preservation should be the primary target in treating EPN. Adequate resuscitation, diabetic control and parenteral antibiotic are the treatment of choice. Rapid drainage and nephrectomy should be performed in advanced stages. The focus of management of patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis should not only to improve survival but also salvage of the renal unit, for the affected kidney may still function once the infection is eradicated.&#x0D; Ibrahim Card Med J 2017; 7 (1&amp;2): 57-63

Comparative analysis of ABO-incompatible kidney transplantation with ABO-compatible transplantation: A single-center experience from Eastern India

This study aimed to compare the outcomes of ABO-incompatible kidney transplantation (ABOiKT) with ABO-compatible kidney transplantation (ABOcKT) in a singlecenter study. A total of 30 consecutive ABOiKT recipients (ABOiKTR) from April 2014 to June 2015 were included in this study. All the patients received rituximab 200 mg/body for B-cell depletion. Plasmapheresis was done for anti-ABO antibody removal. The target anti-ABO titer was kept at <1:8. The outcomes of this group of patients were compared with that of thirty ABOcKT recipients. Both the groups received similar induction therapy with antithymocyte globulin and methylprednisolone. After a follow-up period of one year, the outcomes of both the groups were compared in terms of patient survival, graft survival, graft function, incidence of rejections, infective complications, and duration of posttransplant hospital stay. The patient survival in both the groups of patients was 96.67%. The death-censored graft survival was 96.67% in both the groups. The average serum creatinine level, estimated glomerular filtration rate, incidence of rejections, infective episodes, and posttransplant hospital stay were comparable in both the groups. The outcomes of ABOiKT were comparable with ABOcKT and as such, this modality can expand the living donor pool substantially.

Postpartum hemolytic uremic syndrome in Tibet Autonomous Region, China: a retrospective analysis of 11 cases

Objective To investigate the clinical features of postpartum hemolytic uremic syndrome (PHUS) in Tibetan women, and to improve the diagnosis and treatment of PHUS. Methods From January 2013 to June 2018, 11 patients diagnosed with PHUS in the Tibet Autonomous Regional People's Hospital were enrolled. Clinical manifestations, laboratory testing results, treatments and outcomes were retrospectively analyzed. A descriptive statistical analysis was applied in this study. Results The average age of the 11 patients was (27.0±6.2) years old, and all were Tibetans. Five of them delivered by cesarean section and eight complicated by hypertension. The onset of PHUS was 1-3 d after delivery. The mean hemoglobin concentration [(73.5±26.3) g/L] and platelet count [(51±31)×109/L] remarkably decreased. Patients' renal functions were also significantly impaired with an average serum creatinine level of (517±184) μmol/L. Nine women required hemodialysis, seven received plasma infusion and six underwent glucocorticoid therapy. No patients received plasma exchange or eculizumab therapy due to limited resources. Seven out of the nine patients who underwent hemodialysis could withdraw from dialysis. Conclusions PHUS is relatively rare, and characterized by acute onset after birth and severe conditions, especially renal injury. However, most patients would have better prognosis after active treatment. Key words: Hemolytic-uremic syndrome; Puerperal disorders

Impact of first-line chemotherapy on renal function in patients with advanced upper tract urothelial carcinoma

Objective: To observe the impact of first-line chemotherapy on renal function in patients with unresectable/metastatic upper tract urothelial carcinoma(UTUC). Methods: A total of 222 (130 males and 92 females) unresectable/metastatic upper tract urothelial carcinoma patients were included in the study between January 2005 and May 2017, with age of 29 to 87 (62.4±10.1) years old. The serum creatinine level and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were compared before and after first-line chemotherapy. And predictive factors for decreased renal function were analyzed in logistic regression model. Results: After the first-line chemotherapy, the average serum creatinine level increased, with a median changing value of 1.5 μmol/L. Howerver, the eGFR improved, with a median changing value of 0.5 ml·min-1· (1.73 m2)-1, but the differences were not statistically significant (all P>0.05). In 149 patients who were treated with cisplatin-based chemotherapy, the average serum creatinine level increased by 1.31 μmol/L and eGFR improved by 0.14 ml·min-1·(1.73 m2)-1, but the differences were not statistically significant (P>0.05). In multivariate logistic regression model, age more than and equal to 60 years old (OR=0.88, P=0.745) and cisplatin-based chemotherapy (OR=0.95, P=0.893) did not increase the risk of renal dysfunction after first-line chemotherapy. If the time interval between surgery and first-line chemotherapy was more than 1 year, the risk of renal dysfunction due to chemotherapy decreased (OR=0.54, P=0.196). Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status (ECOG PS) Scale≥1 (OR=1.81, P=0.131), anemia before treatment (OR=1.14, P=0.764), the cycles of first-line chemotherapy (OR=1.41, P=0.398) may lead to increase the risk of renal dysfunction, but the differences were not statistically significant. However in the patients who accepted nephrectomy, the risk of renal dysfunction after chemotherapy increased, but the difference was still not statistically significant (OR=3.06, P=0.089). Conclusions: First-line chemotherapy, especially the cisplatin-based regimen, had no significant impact on renal function in the patients with UTUC. Nephrectomy maybe a predictive risk factor for decreased renal function after chemotherapy. Adequate assessment of renal function before treatment, hydration and close monitoring during chemotherapy can effectively protect renal function of the patients.

177Lu-DOTATATE therapy in patients with neuroendocrine tumours including high-grade (WHO G3) neuroendocrine tumours: response to treatment and long-term survival update.

Upon diagnosis, distant metastases are encountered in 21-50% of neuroendocrine tumours (NETs). However, few systemic treatment options are available for the well-differentiated NETs in the metastatic stage. Lu-DOTATATE is one of the most effective treatments in this limited patient group. We retrospectively investigated its efficacy and effect on the survival in patients with both well-differentiated and grade III NETs who had high uptake in pretherapeutic Ga-DOTATATE PET/computed tomography scans. Patients with metastatic NETs treated with Lu-DOTATATE between January 2010 and November 2015 in our department were included in this retrospective cohort. Toxicity and adverse effects were evaluated according to SWOG criteria. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were calculated considering the first date of treatment. Response was evaluated according to RECIST criteria. Potential predictors of survival and response were analysed. Patients (n=186) with metastatic NETs originating from various primary sites (bronchial, pancreatic, nonpancreatic gastroenteropancreatic-NETs, pheochromocytoma-paraganglioma and unknown primary) were treated with 1107 courses of Lu-DOTATATE treatment (median: 6; range: 3-12). Among 160 patients whose responses to treatment could be evaluated according to the RECIST criteria, 28.1% (n=45) had a progressive disease, 21.9% (n=35) had a stable disease, 46.9% (n=75) had a partial response and 3.1% (n=5) had a complete response. Median follow-up was 30.6 months. The Kaplan-Meier estimated median PFS was 36.4 months, mean PFS was 38 months and the mean OS was 55 months. The disease control rates in patients with WHO grades I, II and III were 74, 73 and 60%, respectively, and the OS rates were 61.9, 52.2 and 38.4 months, respectively. We observed no major renal toxicity except a minor increase (11.1%) in average serum creatinine levels. In 33.9% (n=56) of the patients, grade I toxicity; in 9.1% (n=15), grade II; and in 1.2% (n=2), grade III toxicity were observed. Lu-DOTATATE therapy is an important treatment option in somatostatin receptor type-2-positive pancreatic, nonpancreatic gastroenteropancreatic-NETs, and lung NETs including metastatic NETs with an unknown primary site and significantly contributed to patients' OS. Additionally, peptide receptor radionuclide therapy may have a role in a selected subgroup of patients with grade III NET with high somatostatin receptor type-2 expression.