Patients Undergoing Maintenance Hemodialysis Research Articles

#2057 Sex differences in bioimpedance-spectroscopy-derived fluid status and body composition of maintenance hemodialysis patients

Abstract Background and Aims Bioimpedance-spectroscopy-(BIS)-derived estimates of fluid status and body composition are associated with mortality in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (HD). Previously, thresholds for improved survival were identified for volume overload (VO, <2.5 L), VO relative to extracellular water (VO/ECW, <15%), lean tissue index (LTI, 15-20 kg/m2) and fat tissue index (4-15 kg/m2). However, these thresholds did not distinguish between sexes. Considering current efforts to untangle differences between male and female kidney disease patients, we aimed to analyze BIS data stratified by sex. Method We retrospectively evaluated pre-HD BIS measurements using the whole-body “Body Composition Monitor” device (Fresenius Medical Care). Measurements were conducted at the “Vienna Dialysis-Center”, a large tertiary dialysis center in Vienna, Austria. Continuous variables were described as medians and interquartile ranges and compared between sexes using Wilcoxon tests. Differences in proportions of males and females within the above-mentioned target ranges of body composition parameters were tested using Chi-Square tests and Fisher's exact tests. Results In November 2022, the Vienna Dialysis-Center cared for 304 patients, 159 of whom underwent BIS measurements. A total of 137 patients remained for analysis after excluding erroneous results (62% male, 38% female). The median [interquartile range] age among analyzed male and female patients was 60.0 years [48.0; 72.0] and 65.5 years [57.8; 75.3], and the median dialysis vintage was 28.9 months [12.1; 52.7] and 27.2 months [14.8; 61.9], respectively. VO (2.7 vs 1.9 L, p = 0.025), LTI (13.4 vs. 11 kg/m2, p < 0.001) and FTI (11.1 vs. 14.2 kg/m2, p = 0.036) differed significantly between males and females but VO/ECW did not (14.3 vs. 12%, p = 0.4). 27.1% of males (n = 23) were within 15-20 kg/m2 LTI compared to 7.7% of females (n = 4, p = 0.007). Differences in the proportions of male and female patients within optimal ranges of VO (43.5% vs. 61.5%, p = 0.062) and FTI (67.9% vs. 50.0%, p = 0.058) were close to reaching statistical significance. Conclusion We discovered relevant differences in fluid status and body composition among patients undergoing maintenance HD not only in absolute numbers, but also in the proportion of patients within the optimal range of LTI. Considering sex differences in body composition but (on average) equal mortality among HD patients, optimum target ranges of BIS measurements may differ between sexes. Our findings from this relatively small cohort call for large-scale sex-specific analyses of fluid status, body composition and outcomes in maintenance HD patients.

#442 Hyperparathyroidism, serum phosphorus and dietary intake in hemodialysis patients: is there a novel relationship?

Abstract Background and Aims Hyperparathyroidism (HPTH), classified when intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) serum levels are above 585 pg/mL, is a common complication in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (HD). Despite there is little evidence about the relationship between iPTH levels and nutritional status, the intervention frequently focusses on appropriate management of mineral and bone markers, being the decrease of serum and dietary phosphorus some of the targets. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between iPTH, serum phosphorus levels and dietary intake. Method This was a cross-sectional, multicenter, observational study with 561 patients on HD treatment from 37 dialysis centers across Portugal. Clinical parameters, body composition and dietary intake (obtained from a Food Frequency Questionnaire) were assessed. For the analysis, patients were divided in 3 groups depending on their iPTH levels: a) iPTH<130, b) iPTH between 130-585 and c) iPTH >585 pg/mL. The association between PTH, serum phosphorus and dietary intake was analyzed with linear regression models. A p-value lower than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results Patients’ mean age was 68 ± 14 years, median HD vintage was 65 (IQR: 43-106) months and 58.8% were men. From the whole sample, 13.9% presented a iPTH <130 pg/mL, 59.3% between 130-585 pg/mL and 23.2% >585 pg/mL. Patients with higher iPTH levels were those with longer HD vintage (p = 0.021) and lower age (p = 0.002). At the same time, showed higher serum phosphorus (p = 0.005), serum calcium (p = 0.027), Ca/P product (p < 0.001), albumin (p = 0.016) and caffeine intake (p = 0.009). In addition, a lower dietary intake of phosphorus (p = 0.044), fiber (p = 0.047), riboflavin (p = 0.031) and folate (p = 0.011) were observed in patients with higher iPTH levels. In the linear regression models, higher serum phosphorus predicted higher iPTH levels, even in the adjusted model (p = 0.019). However, a lower phosphorus intake was a predictor of higher iPTH levels, also in the model adjusted to age, gender, serum phosphorus, dialysis adequacy (Kt/V) and dialysis vintage (p = 0.035). The same result was observed when considering the dietary fiber intake in the model (p = 0.048). No significant differences in body composition parameters were found. Conclusion Our results bring new data on the relationship between dietary intake and iPTH values. Despite higher serum phosphorus was observed in patients with HPTH, an opposite association was noted regarding dietary phosphate and fiber as lower intakes predicted higher iPTH values. Moreover, a poorer dietary intake, considering riboflavin and folate was observed in the HPTH group.

#782 Latent profiles of patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis based on hemodynamic indicators

Abstract Background and Aims Both intradialytic hypotension and intradialytic hypertension are conditions occurring frequently during hemodialysis and are associated with unfavorable clinical outcomes. However, they remain incompletely understood and poorly defined in the literature. Since intradialytic parameters are now captured automatically in electronic medical records in many institutions, machine learning could emerge as an innovative tool for hemodialysis clinical research. Latent Profile Analysis is a model-based clustering method. It allows to identify hidden subpopulations derived from a set of observed indicator variables, maximizing between-group differences and within-group similarities. Method The objectives of this study were to identify latent profiles using a set of hand-crafted indicators and to interpret these subgroups of patients in a clinically meaningful manner. We conducted a retrospective single-center cohort study of adult patients receiving hemodialysis between January 2017 and December 2022 in Montreal. Given the highly heterogeneous nature of this population, we only enrolled incidental patients. The data were extracted from the NephroCare database, which is the clinical information system used by dialysis teams in our center. Sixteen indicators were derived from time series of blood pressure and heart rate measurements, capturing various patient-centric aspects of intradialytic hemodynamics, including trends, zeniths, nadirs, and time-related features. Latent Profile Analysis involved fitting a series of models, and the best model was selected based on fit indices, evaluation metrics, and clinical interpretation of the distribution of indicator within identified profiles. The primary analysis used complete-case data, and a sensitivity analysis assessed the impact of missing data through multiple imputation. Internal model validation was conducted using k-fold cross-validation. Results The selected model consisted of four profiles with varying variance and null covariance across indicators. Fig. 1 presents radar plots summarizing the identified profiles. Profile 1 included patients with prolonged early nadirs and a nadir-to-zenith transition pattern at the session level. Profile 2 was characterized by frequent nadirs and zeniths without a specific timing preference. Profile 3 comprised patients with infrequent blood pressure variations altogether. Profile 4 included patients with frequent early nadirs but no zeniths. The model demonstrated good generalization to unseen cases and exhibited relative robustness to missing data. Conclusion In this preliminary study, we demonstrated that Latent Profile Analysis can identify clinically meaningful subpopulations of hemodialysis patients based on hemodynamic indicators. The association between the identified profiles and hard clinical endpoints remains to be established.

#658 Analysis of cerebral blood volume and flow changes in ESRD patients undergoing hemodialysis using functional near-infrared spectroscopy

Abstract Background and Aims End stage renal disease (ESRD) patients undergoing hemodialysis experience diverse neurological complications. However, studies regarding how hemodialysis is related to these neurological problems are limited. This study investigated cerebral blood volume (CBV) and cerebral blood flow (CBF) during hemodialysis using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to analyze cerebral hemodynamic changes. Method ESRD patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis without a history of neurological disorders were enrolled prospectively. The fNIRS data were collected using a NIRSIT Lite device. The fNIRS values were recorded three times for each patient: before the start of hemodialysis (pre-HD), 1 h after the start of hemodialysis (mid-HD), and after the end of hemodialysis (post-HD). The average changes in oxy-hemoglobin (HbO2), deoxy-hemoglobin (HbR), total hemoglobin (HbT, calculated as HbO2 + HbR) concentrations, and in hemoglobin concentration difference (HbD, calculated as HbO2 – HbR) were analyzed. We then compared the differences in changes in HbO2, HbR, HbT, and HbD according to the hemodialysis period. Results Thirty hemodialysis patients were analyzed. Between the Pre-HD and Post-HD periods, there were significant differences in changes in HbO2 (0.005 ± 0.001 µM vs. 0.015 ± 0.004 µM, p=0.046) and HbT (0.006 ± 0.001 µM vs. 0.016 ± 0.008 µM, p=0.029). Additionally, between Pre-HD and Post-HD periods, HbD tended to increase; however, this was not statistically significant (0.005 ± 0.001 µM vs. 0.014 ± 0.004 µM, p=0.094). Conclusion We demonstrated that during one hemodialysis session, the relative change in CBV increased post-HD compared with pre-HD. These results are expected to help understand the mechanisms underlying the effects of hemodialysis on brain function.

#1725 Co-relation of bone mineral density (BMD) with static bone histomorphometric parameters in haemodialysis patients

Abstract Background and Aims A mineral bone disorder of CKD (CKD MBD) is a complication with abnormal bone turnover, mineralization, volume, vascular calcification, and a spectrum of biochemical abnormalities. This clinical study was designed to determine the correlation between BMD (DEXA parameter) and static bone histomorphometry in hemodialysis patients. Method This was a cross-sectional study in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis aged 18-60 years. Bone biopsy was done from the iliac crest, fixed in alcohol, processed, and stained by RGB trichrome stain. Histomorphometric analysis was done by using NIH software (image J) and Adobe Photoshop software for image masking into black and white for volume calculation. Determination of BMD was performed by DEXA SCAN (Model HORIZON A). The detection sections included the central skeleton's three areas- anteroposterior lumbar (L1-L4) spine, proximal femur (femoral neck), and distal radius. Results A total of 46 patients on maintenance hemodialysis were included. Thirty-one (67.39%) were male, and the mean age was 34.43 ± 12.5 years. Amongst the study population, 60.87% (28) patients had osteopenia, 19.57%(9) patients had osteoporosis, and 19.57%(9) patients had normal BMD. Out of 46, four biopsies were inconclusive, 50% (21) had adynamic bone disease, 19.05%(8) had high turnover bone disease, 19.05%(8) had high mixed uremic osteodystrophy and 11.9%(5) patients had normal parameters. Among biochemical parameters, serum iPTH, ALP, and calcium had a significant association with bone turnover. BMD was significantly associated with age. However, it had no significant association with dialysis vintage, sex, or the type of renal osteodystrophy. Static bone histomorphometric parameters were not significantly associated with the T score. Conclusion PTH, ALP, and serum calcium were significantly associated with bone turnover. Adynamic bone disease was the most common renal osteodystrophy. BMD was not significantly associated with static bone histomorphometric parameters in our study.

#570 A study of QTc time trends and factors affecting QTc changes during dialysis

Abstract Background and Aims Several studies have revealed the relationship between an abnormal QTc interval and mortality with sudden death in patients undergoing haemodialysis (HD). The QTc interval in HD is regulated by several factors, such as electrolytes, pH, and drugs. However, few studies have investigated the changes in the QTc interval during HD sessions and the determining factors. Therefore, we investigated the relationship between changes in electrolytes and QTc interval during HD. Method In this cross-sectional study, 53 patients undergoing maintenance HD were enrolled. Electrocardiogram and blood samples were obtained two days after dialysis. QTc was measured every hour from the start of the HD session, and blood samples were collected at the start, 2 h after, and at the end of the HD session. At the start of the HD session, we measured the blood levels of urea nitrogen, creatinine, β2-microglobulin (β2MG), HCO3-, albumin, intact-parathyroid hormone, phosphorus, Ca, Mg, and K. Blood Ca, Mg, K, and HCO3- levels were evaluated at the start, 2 h after, and at the end of the HD session. The relationship between changes in the QTc interval and various parameters was analysed by Spearman correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis. Results The patients were aged 37–91 (median; 71.5) years, and the duration of dialysis was 1–402 months (median; 2 months). Of the patients, 40.4% were diagnosed as the prolonged QTc interval (≥460 ms) at the start of HD (median; 455 ms). Conversely, 15.9% of patients at 2 h after the start of HD (median; 444 ms) and 8.4% of patients at end of HD (447 ms) were normalized in QTc interval. The peak change in the QTc interval occurred 2 h after start of HD. Thus, we estimated the factors that affected the change in QTc 2 h after the start of dialysis (ΔQTc2h). The duration of HD treatment (r = 0.312, P = 0.025) and serum levels of β2MG (r = 0.324, P = 0.019) were positively correlated with ΔQTc2h. The 2-h change in corrected Ca (ΔcCa2h) (r = −0. 31, P = 0.03) and intact-PTH (r = −0.30, P = 0.035) were negatively correlated with ΔQTc2h. We found no significant correlation between ΔQTc2h and changes in K and Mg. According to the multiple regression analysis, ΔcCa2h (β = −0.293, P = 0.033) and β2MG (β = 0.271, P = 0.042) were significant predictors of ΔQTc2h. Conclusion We anticipated that QTc interval might be prolonged due to the decreased serum K and Mg levels via HD treatments. However, QTc levels during HD were shortened according to increased serum Ca levels. Among the electrolyte levels, the change in blood Ca was significantly correlated with the change in the QTc interval but not with the change in Mg and K. The study results suggest the importance of optimal dialysate electrolytes composition to prevent adverse events and premature death caused by abnormalities in the QTc interval.

Blood purification therapy in chronic renal failure and its impact on renal index, serological index, and inflammatory factors

Introduction: This study aimed to explore the clinical effects of blood purification therapy in patients with chronic renal disease, measured by renal function index and inflammation. Methodology: Data were collected from a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan between June 2022 and September 2023. 84 patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis for chronic renal failure were retrospectively included in this cohort. Results: Age, sex, body mass index (BMI), course of disease, primary disease, and educational level were not related to the response to blood purification treatment. Blood purification therapy positively affected renal function, serological indices, and inflammatory factors (P<0.05). Conclusion: Blood purification therapy can improve toxin clearance and renal function and reduce inflammation. Therefore, we can conclude that this is an effective therapy for our population.

ADMA, neutrophil to lymphocyte, platelet to lymphocyte ratios and phase angle: effects on inflammation and nutrition in hemodialysis patients

Objectives: Neutrophil/lymphocyte ration (NLR) and platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR) levels can be used as systemic infallamotory parameters. Asymmetric dimethyl arginine (ADMA) inhibits endothelial nitric oxide synthase. Phase Angle (PhA) is a potential paremeter to screen for inflammatory abnormalities. In present study we aimed to determine the relations between NLR, PLR, ADMA, and PhA in terms of early markers for nutritonal status in addition to their well-known role in inflammation. Methods: A total of 89 patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis 3 days a week at least 6 months were enrolled. To assess nutritional status, we performed the dietary questionnaire and mini nutritional assessment score (MNAS). ADMA was measured by ELISA. NLR and PLR are calculated from monthly complete blood count tests. Patients were divided into 2 groups accordng to NLR levels as group 1 (NLR≥4.6; n=48) ve and group 2 (NLR<4.6, n=41). Results: The mean ADMA level was 0.03±0.01 µmol/L, the mean PhA was 7.2±1.1º. In subgroup analysis, MNAS, albumin levels and phase angle of patients in group 1 were lower and CRP, PLR, ADMA levels were higher when compared to group 2. In correlation analysis, NLO was positively correlated with PLR, CRP and ADMA however negatively correlated with albumin and PhA levels. In regression analysis, NLR, PLR and ADMA were detected as independent predictors of MNAS. Conclusion: In conclusion our study suggests that NLR, PLR and ADMA are independent predictors for nutritional status and inflammation in patients ongoing hemodialysis.

Effects of low-dose magnesium oxide on elevated serum magnesium levels and improved constipation in hemodialysis patients: a single-center retrospective study

BackgroundThe prevention of hypomagnesemia is critical for improving the life expectancy of patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD). The administration of magnesium oxide (MgO) increases serum Mg concentrations; however, dose adjustments must be done carefully owing to the risk of hypermagnesemia in patients undergoing HD. Additionally, the laxative effects of low-dose MgO on constipation in these patients has not been reported. Therefore, in the present study, we investigated the effects of treatment with low-dose MgO on serum Mg concentration changes and the improvement of defecation in patients undergoing HD.MethodsThe present study was a single-center retrospective observational study of 43 patients undergoing maintenance HD at Shirasagi Hospital. The patients’ clinical characteristics, including serum Mg concentration, were obtained from the hospital’s electronic medical records. In the group who received MgO for constipation, the effectiveness of MgO as a laxative was categorized as effective, ineffective, or unknown on the basis of electronic medical records related to defecation.ResultsOf the 43 patients included in the present study, 23 were prescribed supplemental Mg to prevent hypomagnesemia or maintain mild hypermagnesemia and 19 to prevent constipation. All patients received diasylate with an Mg concentration of 1.0 mEq/L. Additionally, 37 patients (86%) were treated with 330 mg/day MgO. The serum Mg concentrations before and 1, 2, and 3 months after the start of MgO were 2.3 ± 0.2, 2.8 ± 0.4, 2.8 ± 0.5, and 2.8 ± 0.4 mg/dL, respectively (P < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that dry weight was independently associated with changes in serum Mg concentration from before to 1 month after MgO administration (regression coefficient = −0.027; P = 0.020). Of the 19 patients evaluated for constipation, 8 (42%) had documented effective bowel movements after the initiation of MgO, 6 had no effect, and 5 were unknown; however, 1 patient in the ineffective group and 2 in the effective group used other laxatives prior to starting MgO.ConclusionsThe results of the present study suggest that the administration of low-dose MgO to patients undergoing HD provides a means of increasing serum Mg concentration without causing dangerous hypermagnesemia, that serum Mg concentrations increase relatively easily in lower-weight patients. In addition, this study shows that low-dose MgO may be effective as an initial treatment for constipation in this patient group in a cautious manner, but this study did not provide sufficient data for the usefulness of low-dose MgO for constipation in patients undergoing HD.

Associations between pinch strength, cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis

Background and aimsPatients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) experience increased mortality and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks; however, the potential connection between pinch strength (PS) and the prognosis of these patients remains unknown. Consequently, this study aimed to comprehensively assess the influence of PS and handgrip strength (HGS) on both survival and cardiovascular events (CVE) in patients undergoing MHD.MethodsData were gathered from patients undergoing MHD at the Hemodialysis Center of Guangzhou Red Cross Hospital in March 2021. We performed a retrospective follow-up spanning 24 months, with death serving as the primary endpoint for observation and CVE as the secondary endpoint. Multifactorial Cox regression analysis, Kaplan–Meier survival curves, trend tests, and restricted cubic spline were applied to explore the association.ResultsDuring a 24-month follow-up, data were collected from 140 patients undergoing MHD with an average age of 66.71 ± 12.61 years. Among them, 52 (37.14%) experienced mortality, whereas 36 (40.00%) had CVE without baseline CVD. Kaplan–Meier survival curves demonstrated better survival rates and reduced CVE risk for patients in the second, third, and fourth quartiles compared with those in the first quartile for PS. Adjusted analyses in different models revealed higher PS levels were independently associated with all-cause mortality (major model, model 4, HR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.64–0.95) but not with CVE risk (unadjusted HR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.77–1.05). Compared with lower quartile PS levels, higher PS levels significantly reduced all-cause mortality (HR, 0.31; 95% CI, 0.10–1.02), and this trend remained consistent (P for trend = 0.021). Finally, the restricted cubic spline method using different models showed a linear relationship between PS and all-cause mortality (P > 0.05), when PS exceeded 4.99 kg, the all-cause mortality of MHD patients significantly decreased.ConclusionsPS was independently associated with all-cause mortality but not with CVE in patients undergoing MHD.

The non-linear associations between blood manganese level and sarcopenia in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis: A multicenter cross-sectional study

Background and aimsManganese (Mn), a vital element in energy metabolism, is predominantly stored in skeletal muscles and plays a crucial role in muscle function and strength. Patients on maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) often experience muscle wasting due to metabolic disruption and inflammation. This study aimed to explore the relationship between blood Mn levels and sarcopenia in a patient population. MethodsIn this multicenter cross-sectional study, conducted from March 2021 to March 2022, 386 patients on MHD from three medical centers were included. Blood Mn levels were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and body composition was assessed post-dialysis using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Grip strength was measured using a digital dynamometer. The patients were categorized into groups with and without sarcopenia. Using a generalized additive model to fit a smooth curve, we employed a generalized linear model to identify the optimal inflection point and explore the threshold effect after discovering a segmented relationship. Subsequently, a binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to investigate the relationship between blood manganese levels and the risk of sarcopenia, with adjustments made for potential confounding factors. ResultsA negative correlation was observed between blood Mn levels and sarcopenia-related parameters (Appendicular Skeletal Muscle Mass Index and grip strength) in Spearman’s correlation analysis (both P < 0.05). After adjusting for confounding factors, a nonlinear association was identified. When blood Mn was ≤ 10.6 μg/L, the increase in sarcopenia was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Conversely, when blood Mn exceeded 10.6 μg/L, each 1 μg/L increase raised the risk of sarcopenia by 0.1 times. Considering confounders, multivariate binary logistic regression confirmed an independent association between elevated blood Mn levels and sarcopenia. ConclusionThis study revealed an independent association between elevated blood Mn levels (> 10.6 μg/L) and sarcopenia in patients undergoing MHD. These findings emphasize the importance of understanding the Mn metabolism in the context of muscle health in this patient population. Further research is warranted to explore the underlying mechanisms and potential interventions for mitigating sarcopenia in patients with elevated blood Mn levels undergoing MHD.

Serum calcium, phosphorous and PTH levels in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis classified by their vitamin D status

Serum calcium, phosphorous and PTH levels in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis classified by their vitamin D status

Relationship between effective blood flow rate and clinical outcomes in maintenance hemodialysis patients: a single-center study

The association between blood flow rate (BFR) and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) is inconclusive. This retrospective study included 175 patients undergoing MHD treatment between July 2015 and March 2022, divided into two groups based on time-averaged effective blood flow rate (eBFR) median value. We investigated arteriovenous fistula (AVF) outcomes and the association of eBFR with all-cause mortality and new major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). Mean ± SD and median time-averaged eBFR values were 276 ± 24 and 275 mL/min, respectively. After adjusting for relevant factors including age, sex, vintage, diabetes, CVD, receiving hemodiafiltration (HDF) treatment and spKt/V, Cox models indicated a low time-averaged eBFR (≤ 275 ml/min) was associated with increased risks of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 14.18; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.14–64.1) and new MACE (HR 3.76; 95% CI, 1.91–7.40) in MHD patients. Continuous Cox models demonstrated each 20 ml/min increase in eBFR linked to a 63% decrease in the risk of all-cause mortality (HR: 0.37, 95% CI: 0.23–0.59) and a 38% decrease in the occurrence of new MACE (HR: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.46–0.84). There was no significant difference in AVF outcomes between the two groups. Our study noted higher eBFR (>275 mL/min) is associated with lower risks of both all-cause mortality and new MACE compared with low eBFR (≤275 mL/min). Increased eBFR is not associated with a higher risk of AVF failure.

The association between vascular access satisfaction and all-cause mortality in maintenance hemodialysis patients.

The mortality is significantly higher in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) than in the general population. It is well-known that vascular access (VA) is critical for MHD patients. But the association between VA satisfaction and all-cause mortality in MHD patients is still not clear. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between VA satisfaction and all-cause mortality in MHD patients with a 30-month follow-up. Two hundred twenty-nine MHD patients in two dialysis centers were enrolled in this observational prospective study. VA satisfaction was assessed using the Short Form Vascular Access Questionnaire (VAQ). Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) score was calculated with Short Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the influencing factors of all-cause mortality. During the 30-month follow-up period, 35 patients dropped out of the study. Among them, 31 patients died, and 4 patients stopped MHD treatment after renal transplantation. Multivariable analyses showed that the age, VAQ total score, social functioning score and dialysis-related complication score of the VAQ, the total score and MCS of the SF-36 were factors influencing all-cause mortality in MHD patients. The Kaplan-Meier curve further showed that the cumulative survival probability was significantly higher in the MHD patients with VAQ scores <7 at baseline than in patients with VAQ scores ⩾7 (p = 0.031). The present study showed that VA satisfaction was significantly associated with all-cause mortality in MHD patients. These findings suggest that a holistic approach is required for VA choice.

Intradialytic massage for leg cramps among hemodialysis patients: A single-center, randomized crossover trial

Background: Leg cramps are commonly experienced by hemodialysis patients, and its persistence may lead to treatment noncompliance. Limited studies are available examining the efficacy of intradialytic massage on reducing leg cramps. Objectives: To determine the efficacy of intradialytic leg massage on reducing leg cramps among patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis at the East Avenue Medical Center. Methodology: This is a single-center, randomized crossover trial. A total of 44 adult patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio into two groups—Group A (intradialytic massage followed by control) and Group B (control followed by intradialytic massage). Each patient underwent the first assigned intervention for 2 weeks, followed by a washout period of 4 weeks, then the second intervention was performed for another 2 weeks. The primary outcomes were the change in frequency, duration, and intensity of cramps. The secondary outcome was patient quality of life. Results: A higher proportion of patients during the intervention period did not experience cramps post-intervention than during the control period; however, the results were not statistically significant (p=0.2059). The median change in frequency, duration, and intensity of leg cramps did not significantly differ between intervention and control (p&gt;0.05). Moreover, quality of life measures were not significantly different between the two groups (p&gt;0.05). Conclusion: Intradialytic massage alone is not efficacious in reducing leg cramp frequency, duration, and intensity. Moreover, intradialytic massage failed to improve the quality of life of patients undergoing hemodialysis treatment. Underlying factors that lead to leg cramps should be addressed through comprehensive and individualized interventions.

A nomogram topredict the risk of acute ischemic stroke inpatients with maintenancehemodialysis: aretrospective cohort study.

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) stands as a leading cause of death and disability globally. This study aimed to investigate the risk factors linked with AIS in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) and to create and validate nomogram models. We examined the medical records of 314 patients with stage 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD5) undergoing MHD, who sought neurology outpatient department consultation for suspected AIS symptoms between January 2018 and December 2023. These 314 patients were randomly divided into the training cohort (n=222) and validation cohort (n=92). The Least Absolute Shrinkage Selection Operator (LASSO) regression model was employed for optimal feature selection in the AIS risk model. Subsequently, multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to construct a predictive model incorporating the features selected through LASSO. This predictive model's performance was assessed using the C-index and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Additionally, calibration and clinical utility were evaluated through calibration plots and decision curve analysis (DCA). The model's internal validation was conducted using the validation cohort. Resaults: Predictors integrated into the prediction nomogram encompassed cardiovascular disease (CVD) (Odds Ratio [OR] 7.95, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.400-29.979), smoking (OR 5.7, 95% CI 1.661-21.955), dialysis time (OR 5.91, 95% CI 5.866-29.979), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (OR 2.99, 95% CI 0.751-13.007), and fibrin degradation products (FDP) (OR 5.47, 95% CI 1.563-23.162). The model exhibited robust discrimination, with a C-index of 0.877 and 0.915 in the internal training and validation cohorts, respectively. The AUC for the training set was 0.857, and a similar AUC of 0.905 was achieved in the validation cohort. Decision curve analysis (DCA) demonstrated a positive net benefit within a threshold risk range of 2 to 96%. The proposed nomogram effectively identifies MHD patients at high risk of AIS at an early stage. This model holds the potential to aid clinicians in making preventive recommendations.

Clinical characteristics and outcomes of maintenance hemodialysis patients with COVID-19 during the Omicron wave of the pandemic in Beijing: a single center retrospective study

BackgroundThe clinical manifestations and prognosis of hemodialysis patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) during the Omicron wave of the pandemic infection were still unclear. This study investigated the clinical characteristics of patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) infected with it.MethodsThis retrospective single-center study included 151 patients undergoing MHD. Healthcare workers were selected as control group were assessed from December 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023. Clinical data, laboratory test results, treatment protocols, and prognoses were collected and analyzed.ResultsThe study population included 146 patients with MHD, 93 (63.7%) of whom were infected with SARS-CoV-2. The number of non-severe, severe, and critical cases was 84 (90.3%), 4 (4.3%), and 5 (5.3%), respectively. Six patients (6.5%) died during the study period. The main symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infection, including fever, cough, and fatigue, were less common in patients with MHD than the controls. During SARS-CoV-2 infection, the C-reactive protein (2.9 vs. 11.8 mg/dl, p < 0.0001) and ferritin levels(257.7 vs. 537 ng/l, p < 0.0001) were elevated. The hemoglobin(113vs 111 g/L, p = 0.0001) and albumin levels(39.4 vs. 36.1 g/L, p < 0.0001) decreased. Generally, it took two months for the hemoglobin levels to recover. Positivity rate for SARS-COV-2 serum immunoglobin G (IgG) antibodies and IgG titers were lower in dialysis patients than the controls. Age was positively associated with disease severity, while age and hyponatremia were associated with death.ConclusionsPatients with MHD and COVID-19 were primarily classified as non-severe. SARS-CoV-2 infection would soon lead to the increase of inflammation related acute response protein in dialysis patients, and then lead to the decrease of hemoglobin and albumin. About 9.6% in HD patients were severe cases and had poor prognosis. Advanced age and hyponatremia were associated with disease severity and prognosis.

Clinical Impact of the Use of Warfarin in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Undergoing Maintenance Hemodialysis.

Background: We evaluated the impact of warfarin use on the clinical outcomes of patients with atrial fibrillation who were undergoing hemodialysis (HD). Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted utilizing data from patients undergoing maintenance HD who participated in HD quality assessment programs. Patients who were assigned the diagnostic code for atrial fibrillation (n = 4829) were included and divided into two groups based on the use of warfarin: No group (no warfarin prescriptions (n = 4009)), and Warfarin group (warfarin prescriptions (n = 820)). Results: Cox regression analyses revealed that the hazard ratio for all-cause mortality in the Warfarin group was 1.15 (p = 0.005) in univariate analysis and 1.11 (p = 0.047) in multivariable analysis compared to that of the No group. Hemorrhagic stroke was significantly associated with warfarin use, but no significant association between the use of warfarin and ischemic stroke or cardiovascular events was observed. The subgroup results demonstrated similar trends. Conclusions: Warfarin use is associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality and hemorrhagic stroke, and has a neutral effect on ischemic stroke and cardiovascular events in patients with atrial fibrillation who are undergoing HD, compared to those who are not using warfarin.

Retrospective analysis of predictive factors for AVF dysfunction in patients undergoing MHD.

To construct an early clinical prediction model for AVF dysfunction in patients undergoing Maintenance Hemodialysis (MHD) and perform internal and external verifications. We retrospectively examined clinical data from 150 patients diagnosed with MHD at Hefei Third People's Hospital from January 2014 to June 2023. Depending on arteriovenous fistula (AVF) functionality, patients were categorized into dysfunctional (n = 62) and functional (n = 88) cohorts. Using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator(LASSO) regression model, variables potentially influencing AVF functionality were filtered using selected variables that underwent multifactorial logistic regression analysis. The Nomogram model was constructed using the R software, and the Area Under Curve(AUC) value was calculated. The model's accuracy was appraised through the calibration curve and Hosmer-Lemeshow test, with the model undergoing internal validation using the bootstrap method. There were 11 factors exhibiting differences between the group of patients with AVF dysfunction and the group with normal AVF function, including age, sex, course of renal failure, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, Platelet count (PLT), Calcium (Ca), Phosphorus, D-dimer (D-D), Fibrinogen (Fib), and Anastomotic width. These identified factors are included as candidate predictive variables in the LASSO regression analysis. LASSO regression identified age, sex, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, anastomotic diameter, blood phosphorus, and serum D-D levels as 7 predictive factors. Unconditional binary logistic regression analysis revealed that advanced age (OR = 4.358, 95% CI: 1.454-13.062), diabetes (OR = 4.158, 95% CI: 1.243-13.907), hyperlipidemia (OR = 3.651, 95% CI: 1.066-12.499), D-D (OR = 1.311, 95% CI: 1.063-1.616), and hyperphosphatemia (OR = 4.986, 95% CI: 2.513-9.892) emerged as independent risk factors for AVF dysfunction in MHD patients. The AUC of the predictive model was 0.934 (95% CI: 0.897-0.971). The Hosmer-Lemeshow test showed high consistency between the model's predictive results and actual clinical observations (χ2 = 1.553, P = .092). Internal validation revealed an AUC of 0.911 (95% CI: 0.866-0.956), with the Calibration calibration curve nearing the ideal curve. Advanced age, coexisting diabetes, hyperlipidemia, blood D-D levels, and hyperphosphatemia are independent risk factors for AVF dysfunction in patients undergoing MHD.

Effects of Administration and Intensity of Statins on Mortality in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis.

(1) Background: Few studies have investigated the association between the intensity of statins and patient survival rates in patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) as primary outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate patient survival rates according to the intensity of statins using a large sample of patients undergoing maintenance HD. (2) Methods: Data from a national HD quality assessment program were used in this study (n = 53,345). We divided the patients into four groups based on the administration and intensity of statins: Group 1, patients without a prescription of statins (n = 37,944); Group 2, patients with a prescription of a low intensity of statins (n = 700); Group 3, patients with a prescription of a moderate intensity of statins (n = 14,160); Group 4, patients with a prescription of a high intensity of statins (n = 541). (3) Results: Significant differences in baseline characteristics were observed among the four groups. Group 1 had the best patient survival among the four groups in the univariate Cox regression analyses. However, multivariable Cox regression analyses showed that the patient survival rate was higher for Group 3 than for Group 1. Cox regression analyses using data of a balanced cohort showed that, on univariate analyses, the HRs were 0.93 (95% CI, 0.91-0.95, p < 0.001) in Group 2 and 0.95 (95% CI, 0.93-0.96, p < 0.001) in Group 3 compared to that in Group 1. Group 4 had a higher mortality rate than Groups 2 or 3. The results from the cohort after balancing showed a similar trend to those from the multivariable Cox regression analyses. Young age and less comorbidities in Group 1 were mainly associated with favorable survival in Group 1 in the univariate analysis using cohort before balancing. Among the subgroup analyses based on sex, age, presence of diabetes mellitus, and heart disease, most multivariable analyses showed significantly higher patient survival rates in Group 3 than for Group 1. (4) Conclusions: Our study exhibited significant differences in baseline characteristics between the groups, leading to limitations in establishing a robust association between statin intensity and clinical outcomes. However, we conducted various statistical analyses to mitigate these differences. Some results, including multivariable analyses controlling for baseline characteristics and analyses of a balanced cohort using propensity score weighting, indicated improved patient survival in the moderate-intensity statin group compared to non-users. These findings suggest that moderate statin use may be associated with favorable patient survival.