Dialysis Modality Research Articles

#2296 Time to get calciphylaxis on clinicians’ RaDaR?—a multicentre case series

Abstract Background and Aims Calciphylaxis is a rare, severe complication of chronic kidney disease mineral bone disorder. It is hosphorzed by arteriolar calcification of the subcutaneous fat and dermis, and associated with a mortality rate of approximately 50% within a year of diagnosis. The reported prevalence of calciphylaxis in dialysis patients ranges from 1–4%. Between March 2012 and March 2020 the UK calciphylaxis study (UKCS) recruited 139 patients from 36 enrolled renal centres; an average of 1 case every 2.6 years per centre. The multicentre case series presented here includes patients from two NHS Hospital Trusts in the UK. The aim is to raise awareness of i) calciphylaxis and possible risk factors and ii) the role of registry data in rare kidney diseases. Method Patients were included if they had a diagnosis of calciphylaxis between 01.02.2020 and 01.02.2022. Data regarding demographics, dialysis modality, BMI, medications, and mineral bone parameters were collected from clinical databases. A representative sample of results was recorded from initiation of renal replacement therapy through to diagnosis of calciphylaxis. Data regarding calciphylaxis lesions, treatments and current vital status are hosphorz. Results 17 patients with end stage kidney failure (ESKF) and clinical features of calciphylaxis were included; 8 of 17 (47%) had a skin biopsy of which 6 reported evidence of calcification. Median age was 57 years (IQR: 50-74), BMI 26.8 kg/m2 (IQR: 22.9-31.1), 100% were white, 53% female and 59% had diabetes. Median time from onset of ESKF to calciphylaxis diagnosis was 5.5 years (IQR: 1-16). 53% (9 of 17) had history of recurrent hypercalcaemia (corrected calcium >2.55 mmol/L) and 82% (14 of 17) recurrent hyperphosphatemia (phosphate >1.5 mmol/L). 41% (7 of 17) had refractory secondary hyperparathyroidism. Warfarin therapy exposure was recorded in 47% (8 of 17) patients; a finding consistent with the literature. 76% (13 of 17) had received active vitamin D and 76% (13 of 17) a calcium-based phosphate binder. 76% (13 of 17) had lower leg lesions; 2 of whom also had upper leg lesions. 1 patient had a thigh lesion and 2 patients had an abdominal wound. Median follow up time was 8.5 months (range 1-24). 9 of the 17 patients remain alive, of whom lesions have completely healed in 6 patients. All patients received sodium thiosulphate and 1 (transplant patient) received hyperbaric oxygen therapy and sodium thiosulphate. Only 1 patient has been enrolled into the UK registry of rare kidney diseases (RaDaR). Conclusion Calciphylaxis is a devastating condition for which there are no proven treatments. In this case series a history of hyperphosphataemia, calcium-based binder, alfacalcidol, and warfarin use were common. It remains unknown why some patients develop calciphylaxis and others do not. National registry data, such as RaDaR, plays a crucial role in furthering knowledge and understanding of rare diseases; it helps to determine calciphylaxis incidence, and inform possible prevention and treatment strategies. Yet, in reality, few patients maybe being recruited into RaDaR. The opportunity exists for an international calciphylaxis registry; for this to offer maximum impact individual countries need to explore, and where possible address, barriers to recruitment.

#2573 Effect of pre-transplant dialysis modalities on delayed graft function

Abstract Background and Aims Kidney transplantation represents the optimal treatment for end-stage renal disease patients. Benefits and disadvantages of different pre-transplant dialysis modalities and the effects on post-transplant outcomes remain unclear, but many authors identify peritoneal dialysis (PD) such a “bridge” versus renal transplantation. Method We analyze a consecutive series of 249 renal transplanted patients (mean age 48 ± 11 years, 67% males) between June 1998 and February 2016 with a low prevalence of comorbidities (diabetes 2%, hypertension 31%, previous cardiovascular events 2%). The median follow-up was 136 months [interquartile range (IR) 91-197 months]. The pre-transplant treatment was hemodialysis (HD) in 215 patients (86%) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) in the remaining 34 patients (14%). The majority of patients received a cadaveric donor organ (219 patients, 88%). Results Delayed Graft Function (DGF) was registered in 151 patients (61%). Analyzing pre-transplant dialysis treatment, 15 patients about 34 (44%) on pre-transplant PD had DGF vs 136/215 (63%) on pre-transplant HD treatment (P = 0.03). Remarkable PD patients were older (48 ± 12 years) than HD patients (44 ± 11 years), but this difference did not rise statistical significance (P = 0.09); similarly the prevalence of living donors were higher (13%) in the group of HD patients respect the group of PD patients (9%, P = 0.53). In a longitudinal analysis the last estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) was lower in patients with DGF (44, IR 19-66 ml/min/1,73 m2) vs patients without DGF (48, IR 35-73 ml/min/1,73 m2, P = 0.04), but no substantial differences was noted at the end of observation in eGFR between the two groups of patients (HD, eGFR 45, IR 25-68 ml/min/1,73 m2 vs PD eGFR 46, IR 24-67 ml/min/1,73 m2). Conclusion Results of this study confirm that PD treatment can be considered an optimal “bridge” for renal transplantation probably because peculiar characteristic of this dialysis modality (such us long term preserved diuresis and residual renal function respect HD patients) impacts positively on recovery of renal function. Further study need to clarify these controversial points.

#867 Calciprotein particles and phosphorus in conventional and extended-hours hemodialysis

Abstract Background and Aims Extended-hours hemodialysis (HD) has better clinical outcomes than conventional HD. Previous studies have shown that a prolonged dialysis treatment time is associated with lower serum phosphorus levels, but the impact of extended-hours HD on calciprotein particles (CPP) is unknown. We investigated whether extended-hour HD and conventional HD have varying effects on blood levels of CPP and phosphorus, which have been identified as the main pathogenic molecules for vascular calcification. Method We performed a cross-sectional study of patients with extended-hours HD or conventional HD between January and March 2020. Blood CPP levels were measured in plasma and serum predialysis samples using a previously reported "gel filtration method". Linear and nonlinear associations between CPP and serum phosphorus levels were examined across dialysis modalities. Results A total of 382 participants (185 with extended-hours HD and 197 with conventional HD) were included in the analysis. The median age of participants was 71 years, 65% of the patients were men, and the mean phosphorus level was 5.4 mg/dL. Extended-hours HD was associated with lower plasma CPP levels (Extended-hours HD vs Conventional HD; 40,018 AU vs 75,728 AU) and serum CPP levels (Extended-hours HD vs Conventional HD; 66,524 AU vs 100,812 AU), regardless of similar serum phosphorus levels. Multivariable linear regression analysis showed that extended-hours HD was associated with lower natural logarithmic plasma CPP levels: -0.64 (95% CI: -0.74 to -0.55). Restricted cubic spline function indicated that extended-hours HD was associated with lower plasma CPP levels across levels of serum phosphorus, with significant differences observed between groups, especially in hyperphosphatemic conditions (P for interaction <0.01). Conclusion The patients with extended-hours HD had lower CPP levels than those with the conventional HD group despite no significant differences in serum phosphorus levels, which may contribute to better clinical outcomes in patients on extended-hours HD.

#254 PaCE CKD: examining health status and financial burden in patients with chronic kidney disease: assessing the non-clinical burden of disease

Abstract Background and Aims There is a detrimental effect of chronic kidney disease (CKD) on health states, with many patients worldwide experiencing considerable symptom burden and development of comorbidities, leading to frequent medical appointments and hospitalisations. Patients experience disease-associated financial strain as their ability to work is impaired. The aim of this multinational study was to characterise the non-clinical burden of CKD by quantifying the effect of CKD on health states and productivity in patients versus general population in several regions. Method Patients with early (stages 1-3) to advanced (stages 4-5) of CKD, including those receiving dialysis treatment, in Germany, Mexico, Taiwan, the UK, and the US were enrolled to a cross-sectional non-interventional survey measuring: Scores were compared with a general population cohort, matched 1:1 in sample size against patient cohorts and for demographic characteristics (e.g. age and area of residence). Results Across five countries, an average of 201 (range: 190–212) patients were enrolled, of whom 42% were receiving dialysis in Germany, 57% in Mexico, and 55% in the UK with smaller proportions of patients on dialysis cohorts in the US (32%) and Taiwan (15%). Haemodialysis was the most prevalent mode of dialysis in all countries, with most patients receiving dialysis in a clinic or hospital. Enrolled patients who had received a kidney transplant accounted for 11.5% on average across all countries. Compared with general population, people with CKD experienced a 24% reduction in mean [SD] EQ-5D utility scores, with patients in the US experiencing the greatest disparity in health states (0.64 [0.27] versus 0.95 [0.08]). Patients with CKD reported significantly more problems across all EQ-5D domains in Germany, Mexico, the US, and UK than general population cohorts. The highest percentage of patients reporting problems was in Mexico, with 81.4% reporting problems in usual activities compared with 4.4% in the general population. Patients receiving dialysis reported a mean EQ-VAS value of 70.3 compared with 91.8 in non-dialysis dependent patients, indicating that treatment burden negatively contributes towards patients perception of their health. In addition to impaired health states, patients reported elevated impairment across work and non-work activities in all countries. Patients reported increased rates of absenteeism, presenteeism, work impairment and non-work activity impairment, with the greatest impairment observed in the UK of 46.4% in non-work activity impairment compared with the general population. Conclusion These results indicate that people with CKD experience substantial burden of disease that extends beyond its clinical aspects. Decision makers should consider broader disease effects when addressing the burden of CKD.

#784 Peritoneal dialysis-related infections by Kocuria kristinae: cases from a Mexican hospital

Abstract Background and Aims Kocuria species, gram-positive actinobacteria, are typically found in the environment, on human skin and as oral flora. These microorganisms are considered saprophytes and non-pathogenic. They rarely cause infections. Patients generally have some compromise due to underlying conditions, including solid tumors, hematologic malignancies, or metabolic disorders. There are few cases in the literature of peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis due to these germs. Reports of exit site infections or tunnel infections are even rarer or doesn't exist. Method Retrospective description of 4 cases of exit site and/or tunnel infections due to Kocuria kristinae over a 3-year period in a single center. Results Four cases of exit site infection were evaluated, with an average age of 63.2 ± 8.8 years. Half of the patients were diabetic. No patient had a history of peritoneal dialysis-related infection. The dialysis modality for all patients was CAPD (Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis). All patients presented symptoms of exit site infection, such as erythema and purulent discharge, but none of them had peritonitis. Three cases were treated with quinolones, and one received linezolid. One case received two antibiotic treatment regimens without an adequate response, and tunnel infection developed, required the removal of the dialysis catheter and a change in modality to HD (hemodialysis). Conclusion Exit site infections due to Kocuria are extremely rare. Despite the absence of specific management guidelines, the response to treatment is usually adequate. Due to the theoretical ability to produce biofilm, Kocuria infections should be considered a potential risk for recurrence and refractory disease. To our knowledge, there are no reports of exit site infections due to Kocuria.

#2947 Exploring various approaches for assessing fatigue in patients receiving hemodialysis using the CONVINCE study population

Abstract Background and Aims In nephrology, there is a growing interest in identifying patients’ priorities to achieve meaningful outcomes. A particular relevant outcome in end stage kidney disease is fatigue, with prevalence ranging from 60% to 97% in patients receiving hemodialysis. Different approaches for assessing fatigue exist. The objective of this study was to investigate how self-reported peri-/intra-dialytic and post-dialysis fatigue relate to overall fatigue levels and to certain risk factors of patients receiving hemodialysis. Method The CONVINCE trial is an international multi-center, prospective, randomized, open label, controlled trial, comparing all-cause mortality of high-flux hemodialysis with high-dose hemodiafiltration. Patient-related outcomes (PROs) were examined as secondary outcomes. Fatigue was assessed using tailored short forms from the Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) to measure overall fatigue, the newly developed Convince Dialysis Fatigue Scale (CDFS) to capture peri-/intra-dialytic fatigue and the Convince Time to Recovery (CTTR-1) to measure post-dialysis fatigue. PROs were collected every 3 months for 24 months, except for CTTR-1 and a PROMIS fatigue short form, which were collected on a monthly basis from the 1st to 5th months. To investigate the agreement between overall fatigue, peri-/intra-dialytic and post-dialysis fatigue, Spearman's correlation was calculated. In addition, we examined whether general health, depression, physical function, sex and dialysis vintage were related to peri-/intra-dialytic, post-dialysis and overall fatigue in a cross-sectional study design (irrespective of dialysis modality). To test for change over time as well as differences between groups Cohen's d effect sizes were calculated. Results Data for PROs was collected from 1282 participants at baseline and 804 after 24 months. The PROMIS fatigue score and the CDFS correlated strongly at each measurement point (Spearman r≥0.67). The PROMIS fatigue score and CTTR-1 correlated moderately (Spearman r≥0.41). We found large effect sizes for mean differences for peri-/intra-dialytic fatigue between patients with/without at least mild depression (Cohen's d 1.27 (95%CI 1.11 to 1.44)) as well as between patients with/without at least moderately impaired physical function (Cohen's d 1.04 (95% CI 0.89 to 1.19)). Patients, who reported CTTR-1 ≥12 hours, showed also large effect sizes for mean differences for overall fatigue between patients with/without at least mild depression (Cohen's d 0.9 (95% CI 0.48 to1.39)) as well as between patients with/without at least moderately impaired physical function (Cohen's d of 1.1 (95% CI 0.7 to 1.67)). In almost half of the patients, the time to recovery was > 4 hours, and patients who reported having to recover for a longer time after dialysis were, on average, more fatigued overall. Overall fatigue, with an observed mean change of 2.10 (SD 9.69) of PROMIS fatigue score, and peri-/intra dialytic fatigue, with an observed mean change of 1.98 (SD 6.98) of CDFS, showed a small increase over the study course. Prevalence of clinically relevant overall fatigue, as defined by a PROMIS fatigue score ≥59, was 15.9% at baseline and increased to 19.8 % after 24 months. Conclusion The three fatigue measurements correlated moderately to strongly and showed small change over time. The relations of various risk factors with fatigue, including self-reported depression, were similar, irrespective of the measure used, indicating that the discrimination between these constructs is imperfect. Furthermore, we discovered that the overall level of fatigue in the study population was comparable to the general population and the prevalence of clinically relevant fatigue was less than reported previously. This is surprising, given the emphasis on fatigue as a significant outcome for patient receiving dialysis. To assess the experience and impact of fatigue in patients receiving hemodialysis, greater attention is warranted, particularly in the timing of fatigue, the time span studied, and the severity of fatigue, especially when investigating a specific fatigue treatment.

#598 Successful application of allo-hemodialysis in a porcine model of embolization-induced acute kidney injury

Abstract Background and Aims Annually, millions of kidney patients, primarily in low- and low-middle income nations, die prematurely due to the lack of affordable kidney replacement therapy. We propose a novel, low-cost alternative dialysis modality called allo-hemodialysis (alloHD), where blood of a patient with kidney failure flows counter-current to the blood of a healthy subject (“buddy”) through the dialyzer [1]. Uremic solutes and excess fluid are then excreted by the buddy's healthy kidneys. We have already demonstrated the technical feasibility of alloHD in pigs with acute kidney injury (AKI) induced by renal artery ligation [2]. In this study, we explored alloHD in a less invasive porcine model of AKI induced by renal artery embolization. Method The protocol was approved by the Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CPCSEA), New Delhi, India. We studied two female Yorkshire pigs (weight 80-90 kg) with central venous catheter as vascular access. AKI was induced by embolization of both kidneys by transcatheter deployment of Contour™ Poly Vinyl Alcohol particles (Boston Scientific, Marlborough, MA, USA). The AKI pig and the buddy pig were connected to the dialysate and blood compartments, respectively, of a Nipro Cellentia 17H dialyzer. The AKI pig was then dialyzed for 4 hours against the healthy buddy pig. During alloHD, both pigs were anticoagulated with heparin (5,000 IU/h) and the buddy pig was sedated with 1-2% isoflurane gas. Blood samples were collected before, during, and after alloHD for measurements of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine. Results We performed nine alternate day alloHD sessions with the same pair of pigs. During alloHD, BUN and Creatinine levels declined in the AKI pig (Fig. 1) and increased—as expected—transiently above baseline in the buddy pig and then trended towards baseline post-dialysis (Fig. 1). We found no indication of hemolysis or coagulation of the extracorporeal circuit in any of the nine alloHD sessions. The animals were sacrificed after the 9th session. Conclusion We demonstrated the feasibility of alloHD in a porcine embolization AKI model. This study corroborates and complements our previous experience with alloHD in a porcine model of AKI induced by renal artery ligation. Given these promising results, we are investigating the potential for advancing to a clinical trial.

#2708 Impact of dialysis modality on bone phenotype

Abstract Background and Aims Literature data suggest that low bone turnover is the prevailing bone phenotype in patients treated with peritoneal dialysis (PD) and point to high sclerostin as the central culprit. Lack of adequate controls, diagnostic heterogeneity, and a changing mineral metabolism landscape and armamentarium call for a cautious interpretation and confirmation in contemporary patients. Method Laboratory parameters of mineral metabolism (biointact parathyroid hormone (PTH), fibroblast growth factor 23 [FGF23] and sclerostin), bone turnover markers (bone alkaline phosphatase [BALP], intact procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide [PINP], tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b [TRAP5b]) and bone mineral density (BMD) were assessed in 636 non-diabetic kidney transplant candidates of whom 447 were treated with hemodialysis (HD) and 189 with PD. A bone biopsy was performed in 204 patients (n = 134 HD; n = 70 PD), with bone sclerostin expression assessed in a subset (n = 52). Results Patients treated with PD had lower levels of PINP (79.6 vs 99.5 ug/L; p < 0.01) and BALP (20.2 vs 23.7 ug/L; p = 0.04) compared to those treated with HD. Histomorphometric parameters of bone formation were numerically lower in patients treated with PD, but significance was not reached. Bone mineralization was impaired in HD patients (osteoid width: 7.90 vs 6.75 µM; p = 0.01; osteoid maturation: 9 vs 6 days; p = 0.03), while frank osteomalacia was rare in both modalities (6.0%, both groups). BMD was higher in patients treated with PD compared to HD at skeletal sites rich in cortical bone (Z-score midshaft radius −0.4 ± 1.3 vs −0.9 ± 1.7; p = 0.04). PTH levels were comparable (150 vs 144 pg/mL, PD vs HD), while patients treated with PD showed higher serum phosphate (4.9 ± 1.3 vs 4.5 ± 1.6 mg/dl; p < 0.01) and FGF23 levels (3852 pg/ml vs 2361 pg/ml; p = 0.01). Circulating (1.82 ng/mL, both groups) and bone tissue expression (205 ± 126 vs 206 ± 112 positive osteocytes per mm2) of sclerostin did not differ between groups. Conclusion Patients treated with PD present a lower bone turnover, better mineralization, and higher cortical BMD than counterparts treated HD. Overall, differences are marginal and most probably clinically irrelevant. We speculate that inferior phosphate control may be in the causal pathway.

#1157 Body mass and fluid balance in dialysis: global profiles in Apollo Dial DB

Abstract Background and Aims Fluid management is a fundamental component of dialysis care. Achieving euvolemia and avoiding fluid overload can be challenging in dialysis. Apollo Dial DB, an anonymised dialysis database from a global kidney care network, was used to gain deeper insights in patterns of patient body mass and fluid balance during dialysis treatments worldwide. Method Apollo Dial DB, a global anonymised dialysis database, contains real-world data from patients in 40 countries beginning January 2018 throughout March 2021. Parameters include demographics, diagnoses, laboratories, medications, treatments, quality of life, and outcomes. This analysis assessed body mass and fluid status parameters on patients in Asia-Pacific (AP), Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), Latin America (LA), Northern America (NA). In addition, bioimpedance for body compositions of patients was assessed as it was available in AP, EMEA, and LA. Results The first version of the Apollo Dial DB includes data on 543, 169 patients, with 4.6% from AP, 13.9% from EMEA, 7.0% from LA, and 74.5% from NA countries. EMEA and NA have a higher proportion of patients in the bigger height categories versus the AP and LA regions (Table 1). There is a difference in mean body weight post dialysis of more than 10 kg between regions; the highest weights were observed in EMEA and NA in contrast to the AP and LA regions. Average albumin levels were consistent in all global regions. Intradialytic weight gain is lowest in EMEA at 1.8 kg and highest in NA at 2.2 kg between treatments. While ultrafiltration volume ranged from 2.0 L to 2.4 L, being the highest in AP and NA. Bioimpedance measures defining body compositions were available for the majority of patients in AP (59.3%), EMEA (86.9%), and LA (90.7%). Patient averages in EMEA are slightly higher for ATM, FTM, LTM, TBW than for LA and AP; this is somewhat explained by the differences in body weight between the cohorts (Fig. 1). Conclusion A descriptive analysis of the body mass and fluid status across minor and major regions bring to light key profiles and differences in the characteristics of dialysis patients across the world and fluid management practices in dialysis care. Differences in intradialytic weight gain may deserve further analysis considering the impact of dialysis modality on fluid balance, such as potential influences of convective therapies. These findings act as benchmarks for the nephrology community. Apollo Dial DB offers opportunities for investigators to conduct global analytics and advance kidney disease research.

#83 Cardiovascular outcomes in home hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis patients

Abstract Background and Aims Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with end-stage kidney disease. Little is known about differences in cardiovascular outcomes between home hemodialysis (HHD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD). Methods We evaluated 68 645 patients who initiated home dialysis between 1/1/2005 and 12/31/2018 using the United States Renal Data System with linked Medicare claims. Rates for incident cardiovascular events of acute coronary syndrome, heart failure, and stroke hospitalizations were determined. Using adjusted time-to-event models, the associations of type of home dialysis modality with the outcomes of incident cardiovascular events, cardiovascular death, and all-cause death were examined. Results The mean age of patients in the study cohort was 64 ± 15 years, and 42.3% were women. Mean time of follow up was 1.8 ± 1.6 years. The unadjusted cardiovascular event rate was 95.1 per thousand person-years [PTPY] (95% CI, 93.6-96.8), with a higher rate in patients on HHD than on PD (127.8 PTPY; 95% CI, 118.9-137.2 vs. 93.3 PTPY; 95% CI, 91.5-95.1). However, HHD was associated with a slightly lower adjusted risk of cardiovascular events than PD (HR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.85 to 0.997). Compared to PD patients, HHD patients had 42% lower adjusted risk of stroke (HR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.48-0.71), 17% lower adjusted risk of acute coronary syndrome (HR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.72-0.95), and no difference in risk of heart failure (HR, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.94-1.16). HHD was associated with 22% lower adjusted risk of cardiovascular death (HR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.71-0.86) and 8% lower adjusted risk of all-cause death (HR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.87-0.97) as compared to PD. Conclusion Relative to PD, HHD is associated with decreased risk of stroke, acute coronary syndrome, cardiovascular death, and all-cause death. Further studies are needed to better understand the factors associated with differences in cardiovascular outcomes by type of home dialysis modality in patients with kidney failure.

#1125 CAPD in ESRD and CLD patients with refractory ascites: a 12-month follow-up study

Abstract Background and Aims Refractory ascites secondary to chronic liver disease among ESRD patients are a major source of morbidity and mortality. Hemodialysis is frequently interrupted due to intradialytic hypotension and other complications which make ultrafiltration removal among CLD patients, a big challenge. This results in sub-optimal clearance which translates into poor quality of life along with recurrent admissions. CAPD in these patients is effective in providing a good clearance as well as removal of ascites with adequate ultrafiltration removal. There is a lack of data regarding the feasibility, safety, and clinical outcomes of CAPD among CLD patients with ascites. We conducted a study with objectives to evaluate serum albumin levels at baseline and 12 months, and to determine peritonitis rates and dialysis modality suitability in CLD patients. Method Study Design A retrospective cohort study. Study Population All hemodialysis patients with refractory ascites due to CLD. Refractory ascites was defined as the need for >5 therapeutic paracentesis in the last 3 months after optimal clinical, dietary and fluid management. All CLD patients were extensively counselled regarding high protein intake. Each patient visited either the Nephrologist or PD Nurse, renal dietician at least once in 4-6 weeks. Results Over a period of five years, 34 patients were included in the analysis to assess the efficacy of Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) for ascites management in chronic liver disease. Baseline characteristics are presented in Table 1. The frequency of ascites drainage prior to CAPD was every 3.4 weeks. Open catheter insertion was performed in 31 out of 34 patients. Serum albumin levels increased from 2.98 ± 0.4 g/dL at baseline to 3.1 ± 0.28 g/dL at 12 months (p = 0.21) (Fig. 1). Child-Pugh Score and MELD score remained stable. Bacterial peritonitis episodes were higher at 12 months (3 vs 9; p = 0.04). PD-related complications at one year included one omental wrap, three pericatheter leaks, and one umbilical hernia. At the 12-month follow-up, 32 patients survived. One patient died from myocardial infarction, and another experienced severe hepatic encephalopathy and aspiration pneumonia. Conclusion PD was well tolerated in patients with refractory ascites, presenting no additional hypoalbuminemia risk. Continuous multidisciplinary monitoring for malnutrition remains critical. Peritonitis risk was elevated relative to SBP in HD patients yet was on par with typical PD rates, without an increase in hospital admissions.

#1353 Apathy and fatigue in patients treated with haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis

Abstract Background and Aims Apathy is a distinct syndrome manifesting with a loss of interest in social or emotional situations, lack of sense of purpose, low energy levels and detachment from life and personal events. Previous studies showed that apathy is associated with vascular impairment and consequent cognitive dysfunction, reduced quality of life and increased hospitalization, institutionalization, healthcare costs and death. So far there has been little research on the prevalence of apathy among dialysis patients although this population could be considered at risk for this condition due to increasing age, and disease and treatment burden. Fatigue is also common in dialyzed patients and impacts daily living, impairs the quality of life, increases the risk of cardiovascular events and negatively influences survival. This study aimed to explore the link between apathy and fatigue among hemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Method We conducted a cross-sectional cohort study which included 75 HD (57.3% male, median age 64 years) and 62 PD patients (48.4% male, median age 61 years) from two dialysis centres. Apathy status was assessed by the Apathy Evaluation Scale (AES) by Starkstein. Fatigue was evaluated with the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT) scale. AES score of 14 and higher denotes the presence of apathy, while a FACIT score of less than 30 indicates severe fatigue. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were obtained by a focused questionnaire and from electronic medical records. Data were analyzed with T-test, Hi-square, ANOVA and Pearson correlation as applicable. Results HD patients were significantly longer on dialysis than PD patients (p=0.046). Apathy was more frequent among PD patients compared to the HD group (64.5% vs 48%), but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.053). Severe fatigue was more frequent in the HD group (33.8% vs 27.4%), but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.424). Elderly patients had a higher prevalence of apathy in both HD (70.3% vs 29.7%, p<0.001) and PD groups (84.2% vs 16.3%, p = 0.008), and a significantly higher prevalence of severe fatigue in the HD group (68% vs 32%, p = 0.017). Among HD patients higher education level was significantly associated with higher FACIT and lower apathy scores (p = 0.002 and p = 0.001 respectively). HD patients taking psychotropic medication had significantly lower FACIT (27.2±13.5 vs 35.0 ± 11.9, p = 0.03). Also, the presence of apathy was significantly associated with lower hemoglobin levels (101.7±9.7 vs 110.3±11.2, p = 0.001), red blood cells count (3.2±0.2 vs 3.5±0.6, p = 0.004), lower serum creatinine (900.0±149.1 vs 1001.5±266.4, p = 0.047) and lower Kt/V (1.35±0.22 vs 1.49±0.24, p = 0.008) in the HD group, while PD patients with severe fatigue had significantly higher creatinine levels (796.7±176.9 vs 646.4±200.0, p = 0.009). Gender, dialysis vintage, primary renal disease, and comorbidities were not significantly associated with either apathy or fatigue in either group of patients. Apathy and fatigue were significantly correlated in both the HD (p = 0.04) and the PD (p = 0.001) groups. Conclusion Apathy is a highly prevalent and often overlooked condition among dialyzed patients regardless of dialysis modality. Longitudinal studies should explore whether apathy is a causative factor for fatigue in these populations.

Effect of End-Stage Renal Disease Prospective Payment System on Utilization of Peritoneal Dialysis in Patients with Kidney Allograft Failure

Introduction: The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services introduced an End-Stage Renal Disease Prospective Payment System (PPS) in 2011 to increase the utilization of home dialysis modalities, including peritoneal dialysis (PD). Several studies have shown a significant increase in PD utilization after PPS implementation. However, its impact on patients with kidney allograft failure remains unknown. Methods: We conducted an interrupted time series analysis using data from the US Renal Data System (USRDS) that include all adult kidney transplant recipients with allograft failure who started dialysis between 2005 and 2019. We compared the PD utilization in the pre-PPS period (2005–2010) to the fully implemented post-PPS period (2014–2019) for early (within 90 days) and late (91–365 days) PD experience. Results: A total of 27,507 adult recipients with allograft failure started dialysis during the study period. There was no difference in early PD utilization between the pre-PPS and the post-PPS period in either immediate change (0.3% increase; 95% CI: −1.95%, 2.54%; p = 0.79) or rate of change over time (0.28% increase per year; 95% CI: −0.16%, 0.72%; p = 0.18). Subgroup analyses revealed a trend toward higher PD utilization post-PPS in for-profit and large-volume dialysis units. There was a significant increase in PD utilization in the post-PPS period in units with low PD experience in the pre-PPS period. Similar findings were seen for the late PD experience. Conclusion: PPS did not significantly increase the overall utilization of PD in patients initiating dialysis after allograft failure.

Dialysis for paediatric acute kidney injury in Cape Town, South Africa

BackgroundDialysis is lifesaving for acute kidney injury (AKI), but access is poor in less resourced settings. A “peritoneal dialysis (PD) first” policy for paediatric AKI is more feasible than haemodialysis in low-resource settings.MethodsRetrospective review of modalities and outcomes of children dialysed acutely at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital between 1998 and 2020.ResultsOf the 593 children with AKI who received dialysis, 463 (78.1%) received PD first. Median age was 9.0 (range 0.03–219.3; IQR 13.0–69.6) months; 57.6% were < 1 year old. Weights ranged from 0.9 to 2.0 kg (median 7.0 kg, IQR 3.0–16.0 kg); 38.6% were < 5 kg. PD was used more in younger children compared to extracorporeal dialysis (ECD), with median ages 6.4 (IQR 0.9–30.4) vs. 73.9 (IQR 17.5–113.9) months, respectively (p = 0.001). PD was performed with Seldinger soft catheters (n = 480/578, 83%), predominantly inserted by paediatricians at the bedside (n = 412/490, 84.1%). Complications occurred in 127/560 (22.7%) children receiving PD. Overall, 314/542 (57.8%) children survived. Survival was significantly lower in neonates (< 1 month old, 47.5%) and infants (1–12 months old, 49.2%) compared with older children (> 1 year old, 70.4%, p < 0.0001). Survival was superior in the ECD (75.4%) than in the PD group (55.6%, p = 0.002).Conclusions“PD First for Paediatric AKI” is a valuable therapeutic approach for children with AKI. It is feasible in low-resourced settings where bedside PD catheter insertion can be safely taught and is an acceptable dialysis modality, especially in settings where children with AKI would otherwise not survive.Graphical abstractA higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information

Association of calciprotein particles with serum phosphorus among patients undergoing conventional and extended-hours haemodialysis.

Extended-hours haemodialysis (HD) is associated with better clinical outcomes than conventional HD. We investigated whether extended-hours HD and conventional HD have varying effects on blood levels of calciprotein particles (CPPs) and phosphorus, which have been identified as major pathogenic molecules for vascular calcification. Patients who underwent conventional or extended in-centre daytime HD between January and March 2020 were included. Plasma CPP levels, representing only secondary CPPs (CPP-II), were measured in pre-dialysis samples. Linear and non-linear associations between CPPs and serum phosphorus levels were examined across dialysis modalities. A total of 382 participants (185 undergoing extended-hours HD and 197 undergoing conventional HD) were included in the analysis. The median age of participants was 71years, 65% of the patients were men and the mean phosphorus level was 5.4mg/dl. Plasma CPP (CPP-II) levels were lower in the extended-hours HD group than in the conventional HD group [40018(arbitrary units) AU versus 75728AU; P<.01]. Multivariable linear regression analysis showed that extended-hours HD was associated with lower natural logarithmic plasma CPP (CPP-II) levels: -0.64 (95% confidence interval -0.74 to -0.55). A restricted cubic spline function indicated that extended-hours HD was associated with lower plasma CPP (CPP-II) levels across levels of serum phosphorus, with significant differences observed between groups, especially in hyperphosphataemic conditions (P for interaction <.01). The extended-hours HD group had lower CPP levels than the conventional HD group despite no significant differences in serum phosphorus levels, which may contribute to better clinical outcomes in patients on extended-hours HD.

Effect of Pretransplant Dialysis Method and Vintage on Early Clinical Outcomes of Kidney Transplantation

Pre-transplantation dialysis duration and modality may affect patients' long-term (mortality and graft failure) and short-term (delayed graft function) outcomes after kidney transplantation. We aimed to assess the impact of the method and duration of dialysis therapy on the graft function in the first 6 months post-transplant. The analysis included 122 kidney transplant patients (109 from a deceased donor and 13 from a living donor). Before transplantation, 91 were on hemodialysis (HD), 19 were on peritoneal dialysis (PD), and 9 received preemptive transplants. The incidence of delayed graft function (DGF) and creatinine levels at discharge and 6 months after transplantation were assessed. PD and HD patients did not differ in age, number of mismatches, and cold ischemia time (CIT), but they had a significantly shorter dialysis vintage (18.3 ± 25.7 vs 39.6 ± 34.3 months, P = .01) and a lower incidence of DGF (5% vs 37%, P = .006). The duration of hospitalization and creatinine concentration at discharge and after 6 months were similar. Preemptively transplanted patients had a significantly shorter CIT (ND vs DO - 576 ± 362 vs 1113 ± 574, P = .01; ND vs HD - 576 ± 362 vs 1025 ± 585 minutes, P = .01). DGF did not occur in any of the patients transplanted preemptively. They had slightly shorter hospitalization times and, compared to HD, better graft function at discharge. After 6 months, creatinine levels were comparable to HD and PD. Patients dialyzed for less than 12 months, regardless of the method, had a lower incidence of DGF. Peritoneal dialysis and a short duration of pre-transplant dialysis may improve the early results of kidney transplantation.

Comparison of brain gray matter volume changes in peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis patients with chronic kidney disease: a VBM study.

This study aims to compare gray matter volume changes in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD) and hemodialysis (HD) using voxel-based morphometry (VBM). A total of 27 PD patients, 25 HD patients, and 42 healthy controls were included. VBM analysis was performed, and cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MoCA). The correlation between cognitive function and changes in brain gray matter volume was analyzed. Both peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis patients had partial gray matter volume reduction compared to the controls, but the affected brain regions were not uniform. The hemodialysis patients had greater volume reduction in certain brain regions than the PD patients. The MMSE and MoCA scores were positively correlated with gray matter volume changes. Different dialysis modalities cause damage to specific areas of the brain, which can be detected using VBM. VBM, combined with cognitive function assessment, can help detect structural brain changes and cognitive impairment in patients with different dialysis modalities. The comprehensive application of VBM in the field of neurological function deserves further exploration.

Informed Dialysis Modality Selection Among Veterans With Advanced CKD: A Community-Level Needs Assessment

The Advancing Americans Kidney Health Executive order has directed substantial increases in home dialysis use for incident kidney replacement therapy (KRT). Clinical guidelines recommend patients' self-selection of KRT modality through a shared decision-making process, which, at the minimum, requires predialysis nephrology care and KRT-directed comprehensive prekidney failure patient education (CoPE). The current state of these essential services among Americans with advanced (stages 4 and 5) chronic kidney disease (CKD) and their informed preferences for home dialysis are unknown. We conducted a community-based, cross-sectional, observational cohort study across a large regional Veteran Healthcare System from October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021. Of the 928 Veterans with advanced CKD, 287 (30.9%) were invited for needs assessment evaluations. Of the 218 (76% of invited cohort) responding, 178 (81.6%) were receiving nephrology care, with approximately half of those (43.6%) receiving such care from non-Veterans Affairs providers. The study was targeted to assess the prevalent state of ongoing nephrology care and KRT-directed pre-kidney failure education among Veterans with advanced CKD. The secondary outcome included evaluation of dialysis decision-making state among Veterans with advanced CKD. Veterans with advanced CKD with 2 sustained estimated glomerular filtration rates<30mL/min/1.73m2 were identified through an electronic database query, and a randomly selected cohort was invited for their current state of and outstanding needs for predialysis nephrology care and CoPE, essential for informed KRT selection. Basic awareness of kidney disease was high (92.2%) among Veterans with advanced CKD, although only 38.5% were aware of the severity of their CKD. KRT-directed education during clinical care was reported by 46.8% of Veterans, of which 21.1% reported having received targeted CoPE classes. Three-quarters (74.3%) of Veterans expressed interest in receiving CoPE services. Overall, awareness of CKD and its severity and receipt of KRT-directed education were significantly higher among Veterans with nephrology care than among those without. Of the 61 Veterans providing their KRT preferences, overall decision making was poor, with three-quarters (73.8%) of the cohort unable to choose any KRT modality, irrespective of ongoing nephrology care. Only 8 (13%) felt confident choosing home KRT modalities. The study results are primarily applicable to the Veterans with advanced CKD. Furthermore, a limited numbers of respondents provided data on their KRT decision-making state, prohibiting broad generalizations. In a first-of-its-kind community-based needs assessment evaluation among Veterans with advanced CKD, we found that awareness of kidney disease is positively associated with nephrology care; however, the informed KRT selection capabilities are universally poor, irrespective of nephrology care. Our results demonstrate a critical gap between the recommended and prevalent nephrology practices such as KRT-directed education and targeted CoPE classes required for informed patient-centered home dialysis selection in advanced CKD.

Transition between peritoneal dialysis modalities: Impact on blood pressure levels and drug prescription in a national multicentric cohort.

Hypertension is a leading cause of kidney failure, affects most dialysis patients and associates with adverse outcomes. Hypertension can be difficult to control with dialysis modalities having differential effects on sodium and water removal. There are two main types of peritoneal dialysis (PD), automated peritoneal dialysis (APD) and continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). It is unknown whether one is superior to the other in controlling blood pressure (BP). Therefore, the aim of our study was to analyse the impact of switching between these two PD modalities on BP levels in a nationally representative cohort. This was a cohort study of patients on PD from 122 dialysis centres in Brazil (BRAZPD II study). Clinical and laboratory data were collected monthly throughout the study duration. We selected all patients who remained on PD at least 6 months and 3 months on each modality at minimum. We compared the changes in mean systolic/diastolic blood pressures (SBP/DBP) before and after modality transition using a multilevel mixed-model where patients were at first level and their clinics at the second level. We analysed data of 848 patients (814 starting on CAPD and 34 starting on APD). The SBP decreased by 4 (SD 22) mmHg when transitioning from CAPD to APD (p < 0.001) and increased by 4 (SD 21) mmHg when transitioning from APD to CAPD (p = 0.38); consistent findings were seen for DBP. There was no significant change in the number of antihypertensive drugs prescribed before and after transition. Transition between PD modalities seems to directly impact on BP levels. Further studies are needed to confirm if switching to APD could be an effective treatment for uncontrolled hypertension among CAPD patients.

Psychological Stressor Of End Stage Chronic Kidney Disease Patients On Dialysis. A Battle For Life

Introduction Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) may choose to undergo dialysis. Factors that may have led patients to prescribe psychological interventions related to dialysis are poorly understood in the literature. The purpose of this study was to explore multi-level factors surrounding dialysis modalities such as Diagnosed Mood Disorders, Existential crises, Triggering events, Social support, and Distrust towards the process of dialysis.ObjectivesThe study aims to investigate the psychological battle of the client while going through the process of dialysis. The study reveals multiple mood disorders and existential crises leading to depression among chronic kidney disease patients. Therefore the study was conducted with the aim of providing a therapeutic guide line in future once the factors are investigated in detail.MethodsSemi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted in a dialysis clinic in Karachi where 19 participants participated in this qualitative study. The age ranges from 40-76. Initiating with informed consent followed by surveys assessing demographic and clinical information were administered to participants following their interviews.ResultsQualitative findings suggested that patients were dealing with Clinical Mood Disorders without being provided treatment. Moreover, the cohesive family support enabled them to continue with daily living activities; however, the patients with low support triggering adverse events in life lost their lives in follow-up sessions. Furthermore, nephrology care doesn’t seem sufficient as they are dealing with existential crises of hopelessness, regret, condemnation, and elevated death anxiety. In CKD the misinterpretation of dialysis by cognitively substituting it as End of life increased the clinical symptoms of Mood disorders. Thus the risk factors increase disturbing the quality of life.ConclusionsFindings point to broader factors affecting dialysis modalities with Mood disorders. The low social support and adverse triggering events precipitate the risk factors of dialysis treatment. Furthermore, distrust towards dialysis and existential crisis are recommended for therapeutic interventionsDisclosure of InterestNone Declared