Low Serum Calcium Research Articles

Association between serum calcium and in-hospital mortality in intensive care unit patients with cerebral infarction: a cohort study.

The relationship between serum calcium levels and the prognosis of cerebral infarction remains controversial. This study aims to investigate the correlation between serum calcium levels and in-hospital mortality in critically ill patients with ischemic stroke admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from the MIMIC-IV database. Demographic and clinical data of all participants were collected including gender, age, hypertension, diabetes, myocardial infarction, heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hemoglobin, potassium, sodium, anion gap, platelets, white blood cells, glucose, creatinine, Glasgow coma score (GCS), IV-tPA administration (rt-PA), and mechanical thrombectomy (MT). The outcome measure was in-hospital death. Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression analysis, curve fitting, interaction analysis, and threshold effect analysis were employed to evaluate the relationship between serum calcium levels and in-hospital mortality among ICU patients with cerebral infarction. A total of 2,680 critically ill patients with cerebral infarction were enrolled, with a mean serum calcium level of 8.6 ± 0.8 mg/dL. The overall in-hospital mortality rate was 19.5%, where Group 1 (serum calcium < 8.0 mg/dL) had a mortality rate of 27.7%, Group 2 (serum calcium 8-9 mg/dL) had a rate of 19.8%, and Group 3 (serum calcium ≥ 9 mg/dL) had a rate of 13.9%. There was a non-linear, S-shaped relationship between serum calcium levels and in-hospital mortality. Serum calcium levels within the range of 7.70-9.50 mg/dL were found to be independently associated with increased in-hospital mortality in ICU patients with cerebral infarction. No significant interactions were detected in subgroup analyses, and the results of sensitivity analyses remained stable. Serum calcium levels are independently associated with in-hospital mortality in critically ill patients with cerebral infarction in the ICU setting. Within the range of 7.70-9.50 mg/dL, lower serum calcium levels increase the risk of in-hospital death among these patients, emphasizing the importance of close monitoring by ICU physicians.

Denosumab for Management of Hypercalcemia in Primary Hyperparathyroidism.

Denosumab is a completely human monoclonal high-affinity antibody that binds to the nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) and is widely used to treat osteoporosis. Furthermore, it can potentially lower serum calcium levels by inhibiting osteoclast activation and preventing bone calcium from being released into the blood. This review aimed to provide evidence of the efficacy and safety of denosumab in treating hypercalcemia in primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT). PubMed and the Cochrane Library were searched for published studies that described denosumab for hypercalcemia management in PHPT. Data were extracted by two independent investigators and analyzed using SPSS 23. The risk of bias was assessed by NIH Quality Assessment Tool. In total, 161 patients with PHPT from 18 studies were included in this review. The average age was 61 (47-72) years and the highest serum calcium was 3.76 (3.11-4.20) mmol/l. We found that denosumab can effectively reduce the serum calcium level by a median reduction of 0.5 mmol/l within 3 days. Significant reduction was maintained for 14 days. The serum calcium-lowering effect weakened after one month. In conclusion, denosumab has a potential clinical value in treating hypercalcemia in patients with PHPT.

7193 Hypocalcemia: Pitfalls, Paradoxes, And Conundrums

Abstract Disclosure: K. Dash: None. P. Eswaran: None. K. Maharajan: None. S. Nangia: None. U. Ayyagari: None. 58 year old female with PV bleed was diagnosed as Carcinoma Cervix and recommended radical radiotherapy with 6 weeks of concurrent chemotherapy with Cisplatin and IV Magnesium premedication. Post 6th cycle of chemo, she presented with nausea, perioral and facial tingling, and lower limb cramps of one day duration. Investigations showed Serum Magnesium 0.4 mg/dl (range 1.6–2.5), Calcium 5.9 mg/dl (8.4-10.2), Potassium 3.3 mg/dl (3.5-5.5). She was treated with IV Calcium gluconate and discharged home post correction with serum Calcium 7.9, Magnesium 1.8, PTH 88.7. She was readmitted twice, 5 and 9 days later, with hypocalcemia, given IV Calcium Gluconate, and discharged post correction of serum calcium levels. She presented to Endocrine OP 2 days later, asymptomatic, serum Calcium 5.9, Magnesium 0.6, K 3.8. She was admitted and replacement commenced with IV Magnesium and Calcium. Over the next day her Calcium and Magnesium levels improved. She was stabilized on oral Calcium and Magnesium replacement and discharged. Calcium replacement was weaned over the next 2 weeks with stable serum Calcium levels on continuing oral Magnesium replacement to date. Cisplatin is a commonly used chemotherapeutic agent. It binds to the N7 reactive center on purine residues and causes DNA damage in cancer cells blocking cell division resulting in apoptotic cell death. This interaction with DNA and the formation of covalent adducts with purine DNA bases is the source of the cytotoxic effect of cisplatin. Therapy is associated with side effects including neuro-, nephro-, hepato-, and cardiotoxicity. Electrolyte disturbances including hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, hypokalemia, and hyponatremia are recognized in association with cisplatin therapy. The signs and symptoms of dyselectrolytemias may be nonspecific and a high index of suspicion is required to diagnose. Hypomagnesemia is described in up to 78% of patients on cisplatin due to magnesium wasting attributed to reduced magnesium reabsorption in the distal tubule and/or inadequate intestinal magnesium absorption. Magnesium is primarily an intracellular cation and stored in bone. Serum levels are a poor indicator of total body magnesium and serum concentrations &amp;lt;1.8 mg/dl indicate more severe underlying deficit. Hypocalcemia, possibly due to end organ unresponsiveness to PTH, frequently coexists with hypomagnesimia, and can be resistant to treatment unless hypomagnesimia is corrected. While hypomagnesimia stimulates PTH secretion, very low serum concentrations can induce a paradoxical block. Our case illustrates the importance of recognizing and correcting underlying hypomagnesimia to stabilize serum calcium levels. The normal PTH level, despite low serum Calcium, suggests hypomagnesimia impairing parathyroid gland function. Due to the acute presentation, and ongoing IV correction, we were unable to measure urinary magnesium excretion. Presentation: 6/1/2024

7331 A Rare Case Of Familial Hypoparathyroidism

Abstract Disclosure: N. Sekhon: None. K.Z. Win: None. Background: Autosomal dominant hypoparathyroidism disorders are very rare and mostly asymptomatic. We present an interesting case of autosomal hypoparathyroidism with a new variant of gene defect on genetic analysis. Case: A 66-year-old female was referred to the endocrinology clinic for familial hypoparathyroidism and calcium oxalate nephrolithiasis. She had onset of seizures at age 16. She was diagnosed with hypocalcemia and hypoparathyroidism at age 30 when she had her first episode of nephrolithiasis. She had recurrent nephrolithiasis and lithotripsies, ultimately developing chronic kidney impairment that was at stage 3b at the time of evaluation. Renal Ultrasound revealed bilateral nephrolithiasis, and nephrocalcinosis. There was a history of hypoparathyroidism in her father, paternal uncle, and son. Her medications included calcium carbonate-vitamin D3 600-400 mg-unit oral 2 tablets daily and calcitriol 0.5 mcg daily. The pertinent physical examination finding was a short stature with height 4’11” and calluses in fingers. Her recent serum chemistry showed calcium 8.8 mg/dL (reference range 8.3 - 10.6 mg/dL), PTH &amp;lt; 6.3 pg/mL (reference range 18.4 - 80.1 pg/ mL), and phosphorus 3.3 mg/dL (reference range 2.4 - 5.5 mg/dL). 24 hr urine calcium was 96 mg (reference range 50-300 mg/24h). She was treated with hydrochlorothiazide for nephrolithiasis but was discontinued due to hypokalemia. We performed genetic testing that resulted positive for CASR NM_001178065.1 with heterozygosity and damaging missense predictions inherited as autosomal dominant or recessive. Discussion: The calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) has an important role in calcium homeostasis by regulating parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion and urinary calcium excretion. Familial hypoparathyroidism disorders are divided into Autosomal dominant hypocalcemia (ADH) type 1 and Autosomal dominant hypocalcemia (ADH) type 2. ADH1 is caused by an activating mutation of calcium-sensing receptor (CASR). The estimated prevalence of ADH1 ranges from 1 per 70,000 to 3.9 per 100,000. It is characterized by mild to moderate hypocalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, hypercalciuria, and inappropriately low but detectable PTH levels. It can be associated with Bartter syndrome Type 5. ADH2 is due to mutations in the alpha subunit of the G protein G11 (Gα11). Our patient had classic symptoms of hypocalcemia including short stature, seizures, kidney stones and its sequelae. Her 24-hour urine analysis showed inappropriately normal urine calcium with low normal serum calcium, undetectable serum PTH, and normal phosphorus. Our patient’s genetic analysis revealed a heterozygous defect in gene CASR with DNA variants c.2564G&amp;gt;A with damaging missense predictions. There is no such variant reported or listed in the ClinVar database. To our knowledge, this is the first such case of an autosomal dominant hypoparathyroidism with this gene defect. Presentation: 6/1/2024

Renal transplant nephrolithiasis: Presentation, management and follow-up with control comparisons.

To analyse the presentation, management and long-term outcomes of renal transplant patients who formed kidney stones in their allograft. The secondary aim was to identify risk factors for stone formation in this cohort. Patient information from an institutional renal transplant database was used to identify individuals who both did and did not form kidney stones following renal transplantation. Computerized tomography (CT) imaging was used to make the diagnosis of kidney stones and measure stone size. Age- and gender-matched controls never forming a stone in their allograft were used for comparative analysis to identify risk factors for stone formation in transplant patients. A total of 8835 transplant patients were included in the study, of which 128 (1.4%) formed a kidney stone in their allograft after surgery. The mean time to kidney stone identification was 6.2years, and the mean number of stones formed was 1.7, with a mean maximum size dimension on a CT scan of 5.7mm per stone. A total of 26 patients were subjected to stone-removing procedures, the most common being ureteroscopy (42.3%). The primary intervention failed in eight patients requiring a secondary intervention, and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) had the lowest success rate (60%). A total of 164 controls were identified. In comparison to controls, stone formers had lower serum calcium (p= 0.008), lower estimated glomerular filtration rates (p= 0.019), higher lymphocyte counts (p= 0.021) and greater rate of urinary tract infection (p= 0.003). Graft failure rates were the same (p= 0.524), but time to graft failure was significantly longer in stone patients compared with controls (p= 0.008). The rate of stone formation is low in transplant patients. Success rates for stone treatment vary based on the surgery selected, with PCNL being the worst. Graft survival rates were equivocal, but survival time was better in stone patients. Our analysis calls for further investigation of this important topic.

Impact of hemodialysis center accreditation on patient mortality: Korean nationwide cohort study.

Since hemodialysis (HD) patients are prone to various complications and high mortality, they need to be treated in HD units with professional personnel, proper equipment, and facilities. The Korean Society of Nephrology has been conducting an HD unit accreditation program since 2016. This study was performed to evaluate whether a qualified dialysis center (QDC) reduced the mortality of HD patients. This longitudinal, observational cohort study included 31,227 HD from 832 facilities. HD units were classified into two groups: the hospitals that have been certified as QDC between 2016 and 2018 (n = 219) and hospitals that have never been certified as QDC (non-QDC, n = 613). Baseline characteristics and patient mortality were compared between QDC vs. non-QDC groups using Korean HD quality assessment data from 2018. Multivariate logistic regression and the Cox proportional hazards model were used to compare patient mortality between the two groups. Among study subjects, 30.6% of patients were treated at QDC and 69.4% were treated at non-QDC. The patients in the QDC were younger and had a longer dialysis duration, lower serum phosphorus and calcium levels, and higher hemoglobin and single-pool Kt/V levels compared to the patients from the non-QDC group. After adjusting for demographic and clinical parameters, QCD independently reduced mortality risk (hazard ratio, 0.897; 95% confidence interval, 0.847-0.950; p < 0.001). The HD unit accreditation program may reduce the risk of death among patients undergoing HD.

Association between serum calcium level and the risk of acute kidney injury in patients with acute myocardial infarction: evidences from the MIMIC-IV database

Objective This cohort study was to assess the association between serum calcium levels and the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients. Methods This study was analyzed using data of 1286 AMI patients aged ≥18 years who stayed in ICU more than 24 h in Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) database. Univariable logistic regression model was established to identify potential covariates. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models were used to analyze the association between serum calcium and the risk of AKI in patients with AMI. The association between serum calcium and the risk of AKI in patients with AMI was also shown by restricted cubic spline (RCS) plot. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. Results The median follow-up time was 1.61 (1.23, 2.30) days, and 436 (33.90%) participants had AKI at the end of follow-up. After adjusting for covariates, elevated level of serum calcium level was related to reduced risk of AKI in AMI patients (OR = 0.88, 95%CI: 0.80–0.98). Decreased risk of AKI was found in AMI patients with serum calcium level of 8.40–8.90 mg/dL (OR = 0.54, 95%CI: 0.34–0.86) or ≥8.90 mg/dL (OR = 0.60, 95%CI: 0.37–0.99). The RCS plot depicted that serum calcium level was negatively correlated with the risk of AKI in patients with AMI. Conclusions AMI patients with AKI had lower serum calcium levels compared with those without AKI. Increased serum calcium level was associated with decreased risk of AKI in patients with AMI.

Vitamin D status and intermediate vascular and bone outcomes in chronic kidney disease: a secondary post hoc analysis of IMPROVE-CKD.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and has been associated with abnormalities of mineral metabolism and vascular calcification. Vitamin D influences parathyroid hormone values and calcium and phosphate metabolism, and may play a role in vascular function and bone health. We aimed to test our hypothesis that vitamin D deficiency is associated with arterial stiffness, aortic calcification and lower bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with CKD. A cross-sectional analysis was performed using baseline data from the IMpact of Phosphate Reduction On Vascular Endpoints in CKD (IMPROVE-CKD) study cohort. Clinical and laboratory parameters were compared between those with and without vitamin D deficiency, defined as 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) <50 nmol/L. Univariable and multivariable linear regression analyses were performed to assess associations between serum 25(OH)D levels and pulse wave velocity (PWV), augmentation index (AIx), abdominal aortic calcification (measured by the Agatston score) and lumbar spine BMD. Baseline 25(OHD) values were available in 208 out of 278 IMPROVE-CKD study participants, with a mean value of 70.1 ± 30.7 nmol/L. Of these, 57 (27%) patients had vitamin D deficiency. Those with 25(OH)D deficiency were more likely to have diabetes (56% vs 38%), cardiovascular disease (54% vs 36%) and lower serum calcium (2.29 ± 0.13 vs 2.34 ± 0.13 mmol/L). On univariable and multivariable regression analyses, baseline 25(OH)D values were not associated with PWV, the AIx, Agatston score or BMD. Baseline 25(OH)D levels were not associated with intermediate markers of vascular function and BMD in patients with CKD stages 3b and 4.

Genome-Wide Interaction Analyses of Serum Calcium on Ventricular Repolarization Time in 125 393 Participants.

Ventricular repolarization time (ECG QT and JT intervals) is associated with malignant arrhythmia. Genome-wide association studies have identified 230 independent loci for QT and JT; however, 50% of their heritability remains unexplained. Previous work supports a causal effect of lower serum calcium concentrations on longer ventricular repolarization time. We hypothesized calcium interactions with QT and JT variant associations could explain a proportion of the missing heritability. We performed genome-wide calcium interaction analyses for QT and JT intervals. Participants were stratified by their calcium level relative to the study distribution (top or bottom 20%). We performed a 2-stage analysis (genome-wide discovery [N=62 532] and replication [N=59 861] of lead variants) and a single-stage genome-wide meta-analysis (N=122 393, [European ancestry N=117 581, African ancestry N=4812]). We also calculated 2-degrees of freedom joint main and interaction and 1-degree of freedom interaction P values. In 2-stage and single-stage analyses, 50 and 98 independent loci, respectively, were associated with either QT or JT intervals (2-degrees of freedom joint main and interaction P value <5×10-8). No lead variant had a significant interaction result after correcting for multiple testing and sensitivity analyses provided similar findings. Two loci in the single-stage meta-analysis were not reported previously (SPPL2B and RFX6). We have found limited support for an interaction effect of serum calcium on QT and JT variant associations despite sample sizes with suitable power to detect relevant effects. Therefore, such effects are unlikely to explain a meaningful proportion of the heritability of QT and JT, and factorsincluding rare variation and other environmental interactions need to be considered.

Prevalence of low vitamin D status in an urban district in Sri Lanka: a population-based study

BackgroundVitamin D deficiency (VDD) is conventionally associated with inadequate sunlight exposure. Ironically, recent evidence suggests a rising prevalence in urban areas of tropical regions like Sri Lanka, where comprehensive data are unavailable. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of low vitamin D status in urban adults and its impact on serum calcium.MethodsA population-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 1260 adults aged 35–74 years, living in Colombo, the most urban district in Sri Lanka. They were recruited from 63 administrative divisions, using multi-stage, probability-proportionate-to-size, cluster sampling. Non-fasting venous blood was collected without tourniquet. Low vitamin D (< 30.0 ng/mL), VDD (< 20 ng/mL) and vitamin D insufficiency (20.0–29.9 ng/mL) were determined using chemiluminescence assay method, and serum calcium using Calcium Gen2 reagent.ResultsAmong the population (53.3% females; mean age = 51.8 years), the prevalence of low vitamin D was 93.9% (95% CI: 92.5–95.2). This was primarily due to VDD (67.5%; 95% CI: 64.9.0–70.1%), with some insufficiency (26.4%; 95% CI: 24.0–28.9%). Most VDD cases (53.9.0%) were 'mild' (10.0- < 20.0 ng/mL) in severity, with fewer 'moderate' (12.8%) and 'severe' (0.8%) cases. Prevalence of VDD was highest in females, aged 35–44-years, living in 'highly urban' areas and of Tamil ethnicity. Further, VDD showed a decreasing trend with older age groups, while it was significantly more prevalent in females than males (72.6% vs. 61.7%; p < 0.01), across all age groups. Low serum calcium levels were observed in 9.8% of adults with low vitamin D, compared to 22.4% with normal vitamin D, implying that there could be factors other than vitamin D in maintaining serum calcium levels.ConclusionsColombo District, representing urban settings in Sri Lanka faces a high prevalence of low vitamin D, primarily VDD, with higher rates in females, younger individuals and highly urban areas. These findings challenge assumptions about tropical regions being guaranteed of optimal vitamin D levels; and underscore the need for national vitamin D supplementation and food fortification programs, especially in high-risk urban settings in South Asian countries like Sri Lanka.

Association of serum calcium, vitamin D, and C-reactive protein with all-cause and cause-specific mortality in an osteoarthritis population in the UK: a prospective cohort study

BackgroundOsteoarthritis is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition, but the role of specific serum biomarkers, such as calcium, vitamin D, and C-reactive protein (CRP), in predicting mortality among individuals with osteoarthritis remains unclear.MethodsThis observational study analyzed longitudinal data from over 500,000 participants in the UK Biobank, identifying those with osteoarthritis using ICD-9/10 codes or self-reported history. We performed multivariable cox-regression and flexible parametric survival model (FPSM) for survival analysis, with adjustments made through the inverse probability of treatment weight (IPTW) for baseline covariates identified by directed acyclic graphs (DAGs).ResultsOf the 49,082 osteoarthritis population, the average age was 60.69 years, with 58.7% being female. During the follow-up period exceeding 15 years, a total of 5,522 people with osteoarthritis died. High serum calcium levels, compared to normal serum calcium levels, were significantly associated with all-cause mortality (hazard ratio (HR) 1.33, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.11, 1.59), cardiovascular diseases (CVD)-related deaths (HR 1.55, 95% CI 1.05, 2.29), and other deaths (HR 1.59, 95% CI 1.20, 2.11). Low serum calcium levels, compared to normal serum calcium levels, was linked with CVD-related deaths (HR 2.06, 95% CI 1.02, 4.14). Vitamin D insufficiency, compared to sufficient vitamin D levels, was correlated with all-cause mortality (HR 1.22, 95% CI 1.13, 1.33), CVD-related deaths (HR 1.43, 95% CI 1.20, 1.72), and other deaths (HR 1.26, 95% CI 1.09, 1.45) but not with cancer-related deaths. High serum CRP levels, compared to normal CRP levels, were associated with all outcomes (all-cause mortality: HR 1.22, 95% CI 1.12, 1.33; CVD-related death: HR 1.24, 95%CI 1.03, 1.49; cancer-related death: HR 1.23, 95% CI 1.09, 1.40; other deaths: HR 1.19, 95%CI 1.03, 1.38).ConclusionsBoth high and low serum calcium levels, elevated CRP, and vitamin D insufficiency are potential predictors of increased mortality risk in the osteoarthritis population. These findings emphasize the importance of monitoring and possibly addressing these serum biomarkers in osteoarthritis populations to improve long-term outcomes. Further studies are needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and to propose therapeutic interventions.

Predictors of discontinuation of osteoporosis treatment: sub-analysis of the Japanese osteoporosis intervention trial-05 (JOINT-05).

To identify predictors of discontinuing treatment with teriparatide (TPTD) and alendronate (ALN), data from a randomized, controlled trial (JOINT-05) involving postmenopausal Japanese women at high risk of fracture were re-analyzed. Participants received sequential therapy with once-weekly TPTD for 72weeks followed by ALN for 48weeks (TPTD-ALN group) or monotherapy with ALN for 120weeks (ALN group). Background data including comorbidities, fracture prevalence, cognitive function, quality of life, activities of daily living, bone metabolism parameters, and nutrient intake were collected. The endpoints were 3 types of discontinuations by the reason: a poor compliance, adverse events (AEs), or any reason including those unrelated to AEs or poor compliance. Odds ratios (ORs) of baseline predictors of discontinuation were evaluated by single or multiple regression analysis. A total of 234 (49.0%) patients in the TPTD-ALN group and 167 (34.2%) patients in the ALN group discontinued. In the TPTD-ALN group, a lower serum calcium level was a significant predictor of compliance-related discontinuation. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were lower in patients with lower serum calcium levels than with higher serum calcium levels. In the ALN group, poor cognitive function was significantly associated with compliance-related discontinuation, and higher body mass index and alcohol intake were predictors of AE-related discontinuation. Predictors of discontinuation were drug-specific. Lower serum calcium levels and poor cognitive function were predictors of discontinuing once-weekly TPTD and ALN, respectively. When starting TPTD and ALN treatment, careful attention to patients with lower serum calcium levels and poor cognitive function, respectively, may be needed for better treatment continuity.

Improved Clinical Outcomes Associated With Hungry Bone Syndrome Following Parathyroidectomy in Dialysis Patients

ObjectiveHungry bone syndrome (HBS) is a common complication after parathyroidectomy in dialysis patients with severe secondary hyperparathyroidism. The rapid decline in parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels diminishes bone resorption and accelerates bone formation. This causes a significant influx of calcium and phosphate into the bone, resulting in severe and prolonged hypocalcemia. While previous studies have established risk factors for HBS, the outcomes beyond the reduced recurrence rate of hyperparathyroidism have been largely unexplored. MethodsThis single-center retrospective study analyzed 322 cases in 314 dialysis patients who underwent parathyroidectomy between 2012 and 2022. The study examined baseline factors associated with HBS, adverse events, and clinical outcomes, including changes in blood pressure and hematologic and nutritional parameters over 3-12 months of follow-up, stratified by HBS status. ResultsTotal parathyroidectomy was performed in 28 cases (8.7%), total parathyroidectomy with implantation in 98 cases (30.4%), and subtotal parathyroidectomy in 196 cases (60.9%). HBS occurred in 207 cases (64%). Independent predictors of HBS included male sex, lower serum calcium levels, higher PTH levels, and lack of active vitamin D treatment at baseline. Patients with HBS had longer hospital stays but did not experience an increase in other adverse events. Following parathyroidectomy, the HBS group showed a greater reduction in blood pressure and more significant increases in hemoglobin, total lymphocyte count, and serum creatinine. This group also saw a more substantial decrease in the proportions of patients with hemoglobin <11 g/dL and serum creatinine/body surface area <380 μmol/L/m2. Although the HBS group showed a more significant decline in PTH levels from baseline, similar proportions achieved the target PTH level by the end of the study. Serum calcium levels remained substantially lower in the HBS group throughout the follow-up, while serum phosphate and PTH levels were comparable. ConclusionHBS was associated with more pronounced improvements in blood pressure, anemia, and nutritional parameters. The presence of HBS could indicate greater achievement in controlling hyperparathyroidism following parathyroidectomy.

Serum calcium as a candidate marker in detecting stunting in toddler

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;em&gt;Background: &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;em&gt;Monitoring the nutritional status of toddlers is a very important thing to do. Calcium is one of the blood parameters that can be assessed, because calcium deficiency will affect the child's linear growth. So far, monitoring of nutritional status is only based on anthropometry and is not followed by assessment of blood parameters. &lt;/em&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;em&gt;Objectives:&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;em&gt; &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;em&gt;This study aims to measure serum calcium levels as a candidate marker in detecting stunting in toddlers. &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;em&gt;Method:&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;em&gt; The design of this research is cross sectional with 62 samples of toddlers aged 2-5 years. Data on sample characteristics was obtained through a questionnaire, as for serum calcium levels measurement, venous blood samples were taken and measured with the colorimetric method. The incidence of stunting is obtained based on TB/U measurements and Z-score was calculated using Anthro 1.02 software. Data were then analyzed univariately (frequency distribution) and bivariately (&lt;/em&gt;&lt;em&gt;independent t-test and &lt;/em&gt;&lt;em&gt;chi-square) using SPSS version 22. &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;em&gt;Results:&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;em&gt; Based on anthropometric measurements, it was found that 21 (33.9%) toddlers had stunting, 28 (45.1%) toddlers had low Serum calcium levels and the majority of toddlers (54.9%) had normal serum calcium levels. There was no significant difference (p=0.989) in mean serum calcium levels between stunting and non-stunting toddlers (1.961 ± 0.223 µq/dL vs 1.960 ± 0.175 µq/dL). Bivariate results also showed that there was no significant relationship (p=0.414) between serum calcium levels and the incidence of stunting. &lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;em&gt;Conclusion:&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;em&gt; Measuring serum calcium levels cannot be used as a candidate marker for detecting stunting in toddlers. Further research is needed with a larger number of samples and measurements of various parameters related to calcium balance.&lt;/em&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Association between serum phosphate, magnesium, calcium and aortic valve sclerosis: a propensity score-matched case-control study

Objectives Aortic valve sclerosis has been proposed to signify greater cardiovascular risk; the correlation between serum trace elements and aortic valve sclerosis has been reported. Therefore, an in-depth exploration of the risk factors for aortic valve sclerosis and early intervention may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Methods In this study, Patients with aortic valve sclerosis and non-aortic valve sclerosis who underwent echocardiographic diagnosis in the People’s Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region during the period from 2019 to 2021 were selected for this study. The correlation between aortic valve sclerosis and serum phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium levels was explored using the propensity score matching technique by pairing the two groups of patients 1:1. Results A total of 1,533 non-aortic valve sclerosis and 1,533 aortic valve sclerosis patients were included. Logistic regression analysis showed that serum magnesium [OR: 0.346; 95%CI: 0.227, 0.528] and serum calcium [OR: 7.022; 95%CI: 4.755, 10.369] were influential factors. Patients with low, intermediate, and high serum magnesium levels had a significantly lower risk of aortic valve sclerosis compared to patients with very low micronutrient levels (p < 0.05). Comparatively, patients with low or high serum calcium levels had an elevated risk of aortic valve sclerosis (p < 0.05). Conclusion Serum magnesium may have a protective role against aortic valve sclerosis, while both low and high levels of serum calcium could be risk factor for the condition. These serum micronutrients may be indications of cardiovascular disease risk prediction or prevention, and more research is required.

Research on cognitive impairment and potential risk factors in peritoneal dialysis patients: An observational study.

The objective of this study is to investigate the associated risk factors and their effects on cognitive impairment (CI) in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis. A retrospective analysis was conducted on the basic information of 268 patients who underwent continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) at our hospital from January 2020 to September 2023. Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale during their subsequent dialysis visits. Participants were categorized into a CI group and a cognitively normal group. Blood and other biological samples were collected for relevant biomarker analysis. Subsequently, we analyzed and compared the factors influencing CI between the 2 groups. The prevalence of CI among CAPD patients was 58.2%. Compared to the cognitively normal group, the CI group had a higher prevalence of alcohol consumption, lower levels of education, and reduced serum uric acid levels (P < .05). There was also a higher incidence of autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus in the CI group (P < .05). In terms of dialysis efficacy, the residual kidney Kt/V and residual kidney Ccr were significantly lower in the CI group compared to the cognitively normal group. In blood parameters, the CI group showed elevated total cholesterol levels and lower serum calcium concentrations (P < .05). Logistic regression analysis identified male gender, older age, lower educational attainment, hypercholesterolemia, and elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels as independent risk factors for CI in CAPD patients (P < .05). Additionally, in this patient cohort, dialysis duration and residual renal function were protective factors against CI (P < .05). CI is prevalent among PD patients. Elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels, male gender, older age, lower educational attainment, and hypercholesterolemia constitute an independent risk factor for CI in CAPD patients, whereas residual renal function acts as a protective element.

A Rare Compound Heterozygous Mutation of TRPM6 Gene in Hereditary Hypomagnesemia with Secondary Hypocalcemia: A Cause of Refractory Seizures in an Infant

Background: Hypomagnesemia is an important cause of refractory hypocalcemic seizures. Among the causes of hypomagnesemia, genetic defects are rare. Clinical Description: A 20-month-old boy presented with a history of repeated hypocalcemic convulsions since 1 month of age. Besides seizures, the infant was thriving well and otherwise asymptomatic. Management and Outcome: On investigation, he had low serum calcium, normal vitamin D, low parathormone, and very low serum magnesium (0.5 mg/dl) levels, with normal sodium, potassium levels, and renal functions. The child was initiated on parenteral magnesium supplementation and subsequently discharged on high-dose oral magnesium supplementation. As further investigations ruled out common causes of hypomagnesemia, clinical exome sequencing was done, which revealed a compound heterozygous state with two variants in the TRPM6 gene NM_017662.5, one being a missense variant (chr9: c.5614T&gt;C, [p.Trp1872Arg]/Heterozygous) and the other being a frameshift deletion (chr9: c.1939_1946delGCAATGGC, [p.Ala647Profs*2]/Heterozygous). The child maintained normal serum magnesium levels at follow-up and was seizure-free. Conclusion: Hereditary hypomagnesemia with secondary hypocalcemia is a rare cause of refractory seizures with onset since early infancy. Here, a compound heterozygous variant of the TRPM6 gene was identified as the cause of this condition.

#2793 Improvement of bone mineral density in kidney transplant recipients: it is just denosumab?

Abstract Background and Aims Post-transplant bone disease is a common complication after a kidney transplant. Several factors, including pre-existing CKD-MBD, steroid, and CNI immunosuppressive treatment, contribute to this condition and increase the risk of bone loss and fractures. Among various therapeutic strategies, Denosumab, a human monoclonal antibody against RANK-L, can decrease the risk of fracture in Kidney Transplant Recipients (KTRs). The most reported side effects are episodes of hypocalcemia, which are associated with an increase in parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels. The FDA recommends treating these episodes with calcium supplements and cholecalciferol; another alternative is the use of receptor activators (VDRa). To our knowledge, there are only a few case reports in the literature analyzing the effect of combined treatment with VDRa and Denosumab. In this observational study, we evaluated changes in laboratory data and bone density (BMD) assessed by DXA in KTRs that received Denosumab with or without VDRa supplementation. Method This retrospective study evaluated 18 kidney transplant recipients who started Denosumab therapy after transplantation. The patients were divided into two groups: those who started or increased vitamin D receptor agonist therapy within the first 6 months before the second dose of Denosumab, and those who did not. We analyzed at baseline (T0) and after 1 year from first Denosumab administration (T1) creatinine, calcium, phosphate, PTH, bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP), osteocalcin (OC), carboxy-terminal cross-linked telopeptides of type 1 collagen (CTX), and 25-OH vitamin D and BMD at vertebral lumbar spine, femoral neck and total Hip. Furthermore, we evaluated Trabecular Bone Score (TBS). We performed ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis for continuous variables based on distribution and Fisher's test for categorical variables. To assess the correlation between variables, we used linear regression and the Pearson correlation coefficient. Additionally, we conducted logistic regression to analyze the outcomes. Results A total of 18 patients were included in the study cohort. Of these, 66.7% were females, and 33.3% were males, with an average age of 67 years (Table 1). 13 patients started or uptitrated VDRa within the first 6 months (VDRa group), while 5 did not (Control group). At baseline, the VDRa group had a lower eGFR and higher PTH compared to the Control group, although both were at the threshold of statistical significance (37.38 vs 52.20 mL/min/1.73 m², p = 0.060 and 106.77 vs 72.60 pg/mL, p = 0.069). However, they had significantly lower serum calcium levels (8.96 vs 9.90 mg/dL, p = 0.039). In terms of baseline bone structure, there were no significant differences between the two groups at any of the three sites examined. At 1 year the VDRa group had a significantly greater gain at the Total Hip (+0.08 vs −0.03 g/cm3, p = 0.048 and +10.81 vs −4.16%, p = 0.037). Additionally, the VDRa group had an increase in TBS, while the Control group had a reduction, and this absolute and percentage variation between the two was statistically significant (+0.07 vs −0.02, p = 0.034 and +6.14 vs −1.62, p = 0.043) (Table 2). In linear correlation analysis higher doses of VDRa were significantly and positively associated with Delta BMD at the Total Hip (r = 0.65, p = 0.003). However, a significant correlation was highlighted between VDRa dosage and PTH reduction (r = −0.51, p = 0.027). Finally, in univariate logistic regression analysis, the dosage of VDRA was significantly and positively associated with 5% BMD gain at the Total Hip (OR = 1.54, CI 1.08 to 1.89, p = 0.046) (Fig. 1). Conclusion After conducting our study, we found that the use of Denosumab had a positive impact on bone mineral density. In addition to that, we observed that the association with VDRa led to further improvement in BMD and better control of PTH. Despite having a small sample size, our study demonstrates that VDRa not only helps in correcting hypocalcemia but also enhances the effect of Denosumab.

#2268 Dialysis patients survival in HD centres from Belgium, Estonia, Spain, and Sweden—association with BMI and hypocalcemia

Abstract Background and Aims Several factors are known to influence the morbidity and mortality of ESKD patients, among them cardiovascular disease, nutritional status, delivered dialysis dose, uremic toxins levels, and infectious diseases. This observational study aimed to analyse factors that impact the survival of ESKD patients on haemodialysis. Method We analysed 3- and 5-year survival of 76 patients during the period of 2018-2023 (17 females, 59 males, aged 63.6 ± 15.9 years) from four separate dialysis centres from countries with diverse life expectancies, renal replacement therapy incidences, and kidney transplant rates: North Estonia Medical Centre, Tallinn, Estonia (21 patients); Linköping University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden (21 patients); Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium (14 patients) and Fundación Jiménez Díaz University Hospital Health Research Institute, Madrid, Spain (20 patients). We included stable chronic haemodialysis patients receiving three times per week post-dilution ol-HDF treatment. Patients with central dialysis catheter, acute coronary syndrome or stroke within three months were excluded. Cox proportional-hazard regression analysis was used to detect the factors affecting the survival of patients. In the Cox model, the 3-year survival was set as a dependent parameter. Age, gender, BMI, and serum levels of creatinine, phosphate, calcium, total protein, and uric acid were set as independent parameters. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed to study survival in the subgroups of patients. Results Out of 76 patients, 22 died in 3-years and 34 in five years (Fig. 1a and b). Our Cox model (adjusted with the age, gender, creatinine, phosphate, total protein, and uric acid serum levels) indicated patients' body mass index (BMI, p = 0.014) and calcium (p = 0.033) levels as statistically significant factors in 3-year survival. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed statistically significant increased survival in the group where BMI was higher than 27.6 kg/m2 (Fig. 2a) and in the group where serum calcium levels were higher than 2.25 mmol/L (Fig. 2b). Conclusion This study shows that among prevalent haemodialysis patients 3-year survival is about 65% and 5-year survival 45%, and a higher risk of mortality could be associated with low BMI and low serum calcium levels. Our findings are in accordance with previous studies, where survival benefit for haemodialysis patients with higher BMI is shown [1, 2]. It is proposed that this phenomenon among advanced CKD patients with higher BMI could be due to better nutritional reserve that helps resist chronic inflammation and wasting. The negative effects of excess calcium load for haemodialysis patients are well known, and nowadays, non-calcium-based phosphorus binders, calcimimetics, and low-calcium concentrates in haemodialysis are used more often, thus putting the patients at risk of hypocalcaemia. Though less studied, long-term hypocalcaemia is shown to increase mortality among haemodialysis patients [3], as concurs with our results. Safe calcium concentration limits for these patients are still debatable and need further investigation.

Evaluating the associations between compliance with CKD guideline component metrics and renal outcomes

Understanding the association between compliance to the Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) guidelines in real-world clinical settings and renal outcomes remains a critical gap in knowledge. A comprehensive analysis was conducted using data from a national, multicenter CKD registry. This study included 4,455 patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) measurement on the index date and eight additional metrics recorded within six months. These metrics comprised serum electrolyte levels, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, hemoglobin, and the use of renin-angiotensin system inhibitors. The primary outcome was a composite of renal events, defined by a decline in eGFR to < 15 mL/min/1.73 m2 or a reduction of ≥ 30% in eGFR, confirmed by follow-up tests. Over a median follow-up of 513 days, 838 renal events were observed. High serum potassium levels (> 5.4 mmol/L) were associated with increased event rates compared to lower levels. Similarly, low serum sodium-chloride levels (< 33) correlated with higher event rates. Usage of renin-angiotensin system inhibitors, low serum calcium (< 8.4 mg/dL), and high uric acid levels (> 7.0 mg/dL) were also linked to increased events. Conversely, higher hemoglobin levels (≥ 13 g/dL) were associated with lower event rates. Compliance to guidelines, categorized into quartiles based on the number of met metrics, revealed a significantly reduced risk of events in the highest compliance group (meeting 8 metrics) compared to the lowest (0–5 metrics). Compliance to CKD guidelines in clinical practice is significantly associated with improved renal outcomes, emphasizing the need for guideline-concordant care in the management of CKD.