Receive Kidney Replacement Therapy Research Articles

Mortality After Hip and Spine Fractures in Patients With End-Stage Kidney Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Fractures represent a major cause of disability in the elderly, and patients with fractures exhibit a higher mortality rate than those without. Fractures are also an important health problem among patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) requiring hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, or kidney transplantation. To the best of our knowledge, no study in the literature has yet quantitatively summarized the mortality rates, and a summary of evidence on post-hip and spine fracture mortality in patients with ESKD is lacking. The purpose of this study is to quantitatively evaluate the mortality rate, one-year mortality rate, and five-year mortality rate after hip and spine fractures in patients with ESKD receiving kidney replacement therapy. The MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Embase, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were comprehensively searched for reports on mortality rate and time-period mortality in patients with ESKD after hip or spine fractures up to June 2022. Prospective and retrospective cohort studies, as well as case series involving four or more patients, were included. Pooled mortality rate, one-year rate, and five-year mortality rate with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were examined using a random-effects model. The risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Prevalence Critical Appraisal Tool. Additionally, heterogeneity between studies was evaluated. A total of 26 studies were included in this meta-analysis. The one-year and five-year mortality rates after hip and spine fractures were 215.35-774.0 per 1,000 person-year and 148-194.1 per 1,000 person-year, respectively. After hip fractures, the one-year mortality rate was 27% (95% CI: 18-38%,I2= 98%), whereas the five-year mortality rate was 56% (95% CI: 41-71%,I2= 99%). After spine fractures, the one-year mortality rate was 10% (95% CI: 4-17%,I2= 70%), whereas the five-year mortality rate was 48.3%. The post-fracture mortality rate was high in patients with ESKD, particularly within one year after the occurrence of fractures. Additionally, the five-year mortality rate after hip femoral or spine fractures was high at approximately 50%.

CKD stage-specific utility of two equations for predicting 1-year risk of ESKD.

The Kidney Failure Risk Equation (KFRE) and Kaiser Permanente Northwest (KPNW) models have been proposed to predict progression to ESKD among adults with CKD within 2 and 5 years. We evaluated the utility of these equations to predict the 1-year risk of ESKD in a contemporary, ethnically diverse CKD population. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of adult members of Kaiser Permanente Northern California (KPNC) with CKD Stages 3-5 from January 2008-September 2015. We ascertained the onset of ESKD through September 2016, and calculated stage-specific estimates of model discrimination and calibration for the KFRE and KPNW equations. We identified 108,091 eligible adults with CKD (98,757 CKD Stage 3; 8,384 CKD Stage 4; and 950 CKD Stage 5 not yet receiving kidney replacement therapy), with mean age of 75 years, 55% women, and 37% being non-white. The overall 1-year risk of ESKD was 0.8% (95%CI: 0.8-0.9%). The KFRE displayed only moderate discrimination for CKD 3 and 5 (c = 0.76) but excellent discrimination for CKD 4 (c = 0.86), with good calibration for CKD 3-4 patients but suboptimal calibration for CKD 5. Calibration by CKD stage was similar to KFRE for the KPNW equation but displayed worse calibration across CKD stages for 1-year ESKD prediction. In a large, ethnically diverse, community-based CKD 3-5 population, both the KFRE and KPNW equation were suboptimal in accurately predicting the 1-year risk of ESKD within CKD stage 3 and 5, but more accurate for stage 4. Our findings suggest these equations can be used in1-year prediction for CKD 4 patients, but also highlight the need for more personalized, stage-specific equations that predicted various short- and long-term adverse outcomes to better inform overall decision-making.

Prevalence of Fabry disease in patients with chronic kidney disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Fabry disease (FD) is an X-linked lysosomal storage disease caused by pathogenic variants in the GLA gene. It has a wide range of clinical manifestations, typically related to the specific underlying GLA variant. One of the main features of FD is kidney involvement; therefore, several studies have addressed the prevalence of FD in all types of patients with chronic kidney disease. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of screening studies in chronic kidney disease patients, including those on dialysis, had undergone a kidney transplantation, and those who did not receive kidney replacement therapy, and assessed the prevalence of pathogenic variants in these cohorts. Fifty-five studies were included, involving a total of 84,062 individuals. Of these, 251 cases were positive for FD; a third of the reported GLA variants were of a benign phenotype (37.8%), followed by classical phenotype (31.7%), late onset (15.5%), and of uncertain significance (14.7%). The overall prevalence among dialysis patients was 0.10% (CI95%, 0.06–0.15), 0.28% (CI95%, 0.06–0.15) among patients with kidney transplantation, and 0.17% (CI95%, 0.11–0.39) among those without kidney replacement therapy. Although the overall prevalence of FD is low in patients with kidney involvement, screening, especially in patients who have not yet undergone kidney replacement therapy, is important, in order to provide timely and effective treatment interventions, including disease modifying therapies. The prevalence of kidney involvement in females with Fabry Disease is lower but this should not lead to inadequate follow up. Further research is also needed on the impact of genetic variants of uncertain significance to elucidate their role in Fabry disease.

Epidemiology and Outcomes of Children with Kidney Failure Receiving Kidney Replacement Therapy in Australia and New Zealand

The incidence and outcomes of kidney replacement therapy (KRT) have been well-studied in adults, but much less so in children. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiology and outcomes of KRT in children in Australia and New Zealand from 2000 to2020. Children aged<18 years initiating KRT in Australia and New Zealand between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2020 and reported to the Australia and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant Registry were included. Patient survival, technique-survival, and graft survival were analyzed by Cox regression analyses. Overall, 1058 children (median [interquartile range (IQR)] age 11 [5-15] years, 41% female, 66% White) were followed-up with for a median period of 12.3 years. First KRT modalities were peritoneal dialysis (PD; 48%), hemodialysis (HD; 34%), and kidney transplantation (KT; 18%). Pre-emptive KT incidence was highest in Caucasian children (80.4%) and lowest in the Indigenous population (3.2%). There was no difference in 5-year patient survival rates between 2011 and 2020 (96.9%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 93.8-98.4) and the preceding decade, 2000-2010 (94.5%, 95% CI 90.4-96.8) (P= 0.79). There was no difference in 5-year death-censored technique survival between 2011 and 2020 (51.2%, 95% CI 39.1-62) and 2000-2010 (48.8%, 95% CI 40.5-56.6) (P= 0.27). However, 5-year derath-censored graft survival was significantly higher in 2011-2020 (88.4%, 95% CI 84.6-91.4) than in 2000-2010 (84.3%, 95% CI 80.4-87.5) (P< 0.001). PD is the most commonly prescribed KRT modality for children in Australia and New Zealand. Patient-survival, technique-survival, and graft survival rates are excellent and graft survival has improved over the last 2 decades.

Final Stage of Chronic Kidney Disease with Conservative Kidney Management or Renal Replacement Therapy: A Primary-Care Population Study.

Studies focus on the incidence and risk factors (RFs) associated with reaching the final stage of chronic kidney disease (CKD-G5) and receiving kidney replacement therapy (KRT). Analysis of those related to reaching CKD-G5 while receiving conservative kidney management (CKM) has been neglected. Retrospective cohort study analysing electronic health records of individuals aged ≥ 50 with eGFR < 60 mL/min/m2. Cumulative incidence rates of CKD-G5, with and without KRT, were calculated. Multinomial regression models determined odds ratios (ORs) for CKD-G5 progression with KRT, CKM, or death. Among 332,164 patients, the cumulative incidence of CKD-G5 was 2.79 cases per 100 person-years. The rates were 1.92 for CKD-G5 with KRT and 0.87 for CKD-G5 with CKM. Low eGFR and albuminuria were the primary RFs. Male gender and uncontrolled blood pressure had a greater impact on KRT (OR = 2.63 CI, 1.63) than on CKD-G5 with CKM (OR = 1.45 CI, 1.31). Increasing age and rurality reduced the probability of KRT but increased the probability of CKD-G5 with CKM. Higher incomes decreased the likelihood of developing CKD-G5 with and without KRT (OR = 0.49 CI). One-third of CKD-G5 cases receive CKM. Those are typically older, female, rural residents with lower incomes and with lesser proteinuria or cardiovascular RF. The likelihood of receiving KRT is influenced by location and socioeconomic disparities.

Organization of the specialized medical care in conditions of limited resources (military status) (on the example of the provision of nephrology aid in Ukraine)

The paper considers the features of the provision of pediatric and adult nephrology medical care during martial law in Ukraine from February 2022 to May 2023. The influence of military stages on the nephrology care are presented, territorial zones during the conflict are highlighted, event tracks are shown. Separately, the activity of the Ukrainian Association of Nephrologists/Ukrainian Association of Pediatric Nephrologists, new opportunities for integrating nephrology into the system of medical knowledge are considered. Along with the negative trends, positive results were revealed that made it possible to move forward in the system of specialized medical care, namely an increase in transplant activity, a wider use of “long” treatment regimens with rituximab, and the use of digital kidney biopsy. Statistical data, SWOT analysis at the stages of the military conflict are given, an analysis is presented for refugees who left for the European Union to receive kidney replacement therapy. The enormous role of humanitarian programs for maintaining the structure of nephrological care in Ukraine is emphasized. The accumulated experience is unique and can serve as material for the analysis of similar situations in the world in the future.

#5620 MAPPING OUT THE RESEARCH FIELD OF PROGNOSTIC MODELS IN NEPHROLOGY: A SCOPING REVIEW

Abstract Background and Aims Prognostic models can support individualized care provision and well-informed shared decision-making. Although there has been an upsurge of prognostic research in the field of nephrology, the uptake of prognostic models remains limited. A broad overview of the field is needed to see where we currently stand, and how to progress from here. With this overview we can identify current knowledge gaps, and potential implementation opportunities. Moreover, it will provide guidance as to where future research should be directed. Therefore, the aim of this study was to map the body of existing prognostic models within nephrology and detail the range in outcomes and populations that they cover, as well as their methodological rigour. To do so, we performed a scoping review of studies developing, validating or updating a prognostic model for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or those receiving kidney replacement therapy (KRT). Method A framework for scoping reviews by Arksey and O'Malley was used and the PRISMA extension for Scoping Reviews was adhered to for transparent reporting. A systematic search in PubMed and Embase was performed to identify relevant studies that describe prediction models for patients with CKD or those on KRT. Studies were screened for their relevance based on prespecified criteria, and data was extracted on general characteristics of the included studies and their reporting and methodological quality. For the studies in which a prognostic model was developed, model presentation (e.g., full regression formula or risk score), whether validation strategies were employed, and model type (regression modelling vs machine learning), were extracted. Finally, we extracted data on the predicted outcome definitions, and which models were validated and/or updated most often. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise all findings. Results The systematic search yielded 3728 studies for screening, of which 596 were finally included. Of these, 29.5% concerned a CKD population, 31.4% a dialysis population, and 39.1% a kidney transplantation population. Many studies had a sample size of less than 500 participants (41.4%). Although a measure of discrimination of the model was usually presented (79.5%), a measure of calibration was presented in less than half of the studies (43.5%). Of the 411 studies in which a prognostic model was developed, most performed only internal validation (57.9%) or no validation at all (27.7%). Moreover, in almost half of the development studies (45.3%) no usable version of the model was reported, meaning that insufficient information was reported to apply the model in a new setting. For CKD populations, the majority of models predicted disease progression (n = 78), followed by models predicting mortality (n = 22) and cardiovascular events (n = 13). For dialysis populations, most models predicted mortality (n = 79), cardiovascular events (n = 20), and vascular access related outcomes (n = 15). Finally, models originally developed for kidney transplantation populations mainly predicted graft survival (n = 59), recipient survival (n = 39), and delayed graft function (n = 24). Models for non-traditional clinical outcomes, like health-related quality of life and symptom burden, were scarce. If validated or updated at all (n = 199), most models (n = 123) were externally validated and/or updated only once. The rest (n = 76) were validated and/or updated more, with a median (IQR) of 2 (2-3), 2 (2-3), and 3 (2-4) within the CKD, dialysis, and transplantation populations, respectively. Conclusion A substantial amount of nephrological prognostic research has been performed, but to minimize the gap between research and patient care additional steps have to be undertaken. Methodological rigour, external validation, updating, and impact assessment are of paramount importance. In addition, the current body of literature focusses on traditional clinical outcomes, and models for patient-reported outcomes are scarce. Opportunities to improve implementation of prognostic models in nephrological care are described in Box 1.

#3538 SURVIVAL OUTCOMES FOLLOWING CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION IN ADULTS RECEIVING KIDNEY REPLACEMENT THERAPY: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND NARRATIVE SYNTHESIS

Abstract Background and Aims Individuals receiving kidney replacement therapy (KRT) are at higher risk of cardiac arrest than the general population. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate survival outcomes in individuals on different forms of KRT (haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis or kidney transplantation) following cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) within healthcare settings (hospital or outpatient clinics). Method A comprehensive literature search of EMBASE, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science and Central was carried using a pre-defined search strategy with no date or language restrictions. Retrospective and prospective observational studies reporting outcomes following CPR in adults on kidney replacement therapy were included. The study protocol was prospectively registered on PROSPERO: CRD42022336363. Results Thirteen eligible studies were identified. Due to the heterogeneity of study populations, lack of a standardised outcome set and inconsistent use of control groups, a narrative review was conducted, and a meta-analysis was not performed. Crude unadjusted survival rate to discharge from hospital was reported in 11 studies and ranged from 0%—75%. Only two studies reported neurological outcome at discharge, with rates of a favourable cerebral performance category score (CPC 1 or 2) on discharge between 17–20%. Conclusion The current evidence is insufficient to guide clinical decision-making regarding resuscitation due to a lack of up-to-date data, uncertainty about outcomes and inconsistent reporting of neurological status after CPR. Additionally, there is a lack of data comparing survival outcomes for people on different types of KRT. There remain unanswered questions regarding the likelihood of favourable outcomes for the KRT population and whether these can be accurately predicted using clinical and demographic features.

The Etiology of Kidney Failure in Indonesia: A Multicenter Study in Tertiary-Care Centers in Jakarta.

Despite a large number of patients requiring dialysis, the etiology of kidney failure is poorly documented in Indonesia. With the aim to reduce the disease burden, it is essential to obtain more insight in the etiology of chronic kidney disease (CKD). In the present study, we attempted to investigate the primary renal disease of kidney failure patients from five tertiary-care centers in Jakarta. This is a multicenter, cross-sectional study of kidney failure patients receiving kidney replacement therapy (KRT), from December 2021 to July 2022. We recruited patients aged ≥18 years, had been receiving dialysis for at least three months or a kidney transplantation. This study included 1,152 patients treated with hemodialysis (68.1%), peritoneal dialysis (7.5%), and kidney transplantation (24.4%). At the start of KRT, the median (interquartile-range [IQR]) age was 48 [37-58] years with low eGFR (median [IQR]: 5.9 [4.0-8.34] ml/minute/1.73 m2). Hypertension was the main comorbidity (74.2%), followed by diabetes mellitus (30.1%). The major primary kidney disease was diabetic kidney disease (27.2%), followed by glomerulonephritis (13.0%), hypertension (11.5%), and urolithiasis (10.3%). Lupus nephritis was the common underlying etiology of secondary glomerulonephritis (91%). A high rate of unknown cause (31.1%) was also observed. Our results suggest that diabetic kidney disease is the leading cause of kidney failure in Jakarta, followed by glomerulonephritis. This study highlights the need for a better approach on primary prevention of diabetes mellitus as well as to better recognize glomerulonephritis at earlier stage might have a significant impact on reduction of the rate of kidney failure in Indonesia.

Chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus: what is known and its application in children.

Chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus (CKD-aP) or uremic pruritus (UP) is a frequent symptom in patients with kidney failure receiving kidney replacement therapy. Severe chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus correlates with poor outcome in patients on dialysis. It is multifactorial in etiology and has a significant impact on quality of life. There is, however, limited data for children. This review summarizes current epidemiology, clinical characteristics, pruritus scoring systems, and available therapeutic options for pruritus in patients with chronic kidney disease and those receiving dialysis. Optimal care requires proper awareness of the severity of symptoms, the impact on quality of life, and the possible long-term outcomes. Optimizing dialysis prescription and correcting electrolyte abnormalities are important treatment targets. A wide range of therapeutic options is also available although none are well-studied in children. An earlier recognition of this debilitating symptom in children and treatment is imperative. A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information.

Fluid Management for Critically Ill Patients with Acute Kidney Injury Receiving Kidney Replacement Therapy: An International Survey.

In critically ill patients receiving KRT, high ultrafiltration rates and persistent fluid accumulation are associated with adverse outcomes. The purpose of this international survey was to evaluate current practices and evidence gaps related to fluid removal with KRT in critically ill patients. This was a multinational, web-based survey distributed by seven networks comprising nephrologists and intensivists. Physicians involved in the care of critically ill patients were invited to complete a 39-question survey about fluid management practices on KRT. The survey was distributed from September 2021 to December 2021. There were 757 respondents from 96 countries (response rate of 65%). Most respondents practiced adult medicine (89%) and worked in an academic center (69%). The majority (91%) reported aiming for a 0.5- to 2-L negative fluid balance per day when fluid removal is indicated, although there was important variability in what respondents considered a safe maximal target. Intensivists were more likely than nephrologists to use adjunct volume status assessment methods ( i.e. , ultrasound, hemodynamic markers, and intra-abdominal pressure), while nephrologists were more likely to deploy cointerventions aimed at improving tolerance to fluid removal ( i.e. , osmotic agents and low-temperature dialysate). There was a broad consensus that rapid decongestion should be prioritized when fluid accumulation is present, but the prevention of hypotension was also reported as a competing priority. A majority (77%) agreed that performing trials that compare fluid management strategies would be ethical and clinically relevant. We have identified multiple areas of variability in current practice of fluid management for patients receiving KRT. Most nephrologists and intensivists agreed that several knowledge gaps related to fluid removal strategies should be investigated in future randomized controlled trials.

Assessing Fatigue in Patients Receiving Kidney Replacement Therapy Using PROMIS Computer Adaptive Testing

Fatigue is a debilitating symptom for many patients receiving kidney replacement therapy (KRT). Patient-reported outcome measures can help clinicians identify and manage fatigue efficiently. We assessed the measurement characteristics of the Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS)-Fatigue Computer Adaptive Test (PROMIS-F CAT) in patients receiving KRT using the previously validated Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT-F) questionnaire. Cross-sectional study. 198 adults treated with dialysis or recipients of a kidney transplant in Toronto, Canada. Demographic data, FACIT-F scores, KRT type. Measurement properties of PROMIS-F CAT T scores. Reliability and test-retest reliability were assessed using standard errors ofmeasurement and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), respectively. Construct validity was assessed using correlation and comparisons across predefined groups expected to have different levels of fatigue. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to assess the discrimination of PROMIS-F CAT, with clinically relevant fatigue defined by a FACIT-F score of≤30. Of the 198 participants, 57% were male, the mean±SD age was 57±14 years; 65% had received a kidney transplant. Based onthe FACIT-F score, 47 patients (24%) hadclinically relevant fatigue. PROMIS-F CATandFACIT-F were strongly correlated (ρ=-0.80, P<0.001). PROMIS-F CAT had excellent reliability (>0.90 for 98% of sample), and goodtest-retest reliability (ICC=0.85). TheROC analysis demonstrated outstanding discrimination (area under ROC=0.93 [95%, CI 0.89-0.97]). APROMIS-F CAT cutoff score of≥59 accurately identified most patients with clinically relevant fatigue (sensitivity=0.83; specificity=0.91). A convenience sample of clinically stable patients. FACIT-F items are a part of the PROMIS-F item bank, although there was minimal overlap with only 4 FACIT-F items completed in PROMIS-F CAT. PROMIS-F CAT has robust measurement properties with low question burden to assess fatigue among patients with KRT.

Telomere Attrition in Chronic Kidney Diseases

Telomeres are dynamic DNA nucleoprotein structures located at the end of chromosomes where they maintain genomic stability. Due to the end replication problem, telomeres shorten with each cell division. Critically short telomeres trigger cellular senescence, which contributes to various degenerative and age-related diseases, including chronic kidney diseases (CKDs). Additionally, other factors such as oxidative stress may also contribute to accelerated telomere shortening. Indeed, telomeres are highly susceptible to oxidative damage due to their high guanine content. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of studies examining telomere length (TL) in CKDs to highlight the association between TL and the development and progression of CKDs in humans. We then focus on studies investigating TL in patients receiving kidney replacement therapy. The mechanisms of the relationship between TL and CKD are not fully understood, but a shorter TL has been associated with decreased kidney function and the progression of nephropathy. Interestingly, telomere lengthening has been observed in some patients in longitudinal studies. Hemodialysis has been shown to accelerate telomere erosion, whereas the uremic milieu is not reversed even in kidney transplantation patients. Overall, this review aims to provide insights into the biological significance of telomere attrition in the pathophysiology of kidney disease, which may contribute to the development of new strategies for the management of patients with CKDs.

One year of the full-scale war in Ukraine and kidney replacement therapy: Where do we stand now? A brief report of the Ukrainian Renal Disaster Relief Committee of the Ukrainian Association of Nephrologists and Kidney Transplant Specialists

The war in Ukraine is now entering its ninth year, and a year has passed since the russian army invaded Ukraine on a large scale. A few months ago, the Ukrainian Renal Disaster Relief Committee of the Ukrainian Association of Nephrologists and Kidney Transplant Specialists was established and began its work to provide immediate support to kidney patients during the war. In this brief report, we present the first data collected on the number of patients receiving kidney replacement therapy, the possibility of enrolling new patients, and the availability of an autonomous electricity and water supply in all regions of Ukraine accessible for communication. In addition, we provide a brief analysis of the dynamics of the regional distribution of patients treated with kidney replacement therapy in the war year.

A Retrospective Cohort Study That Examined the Impact of Cannabis Consumption on Long-Term Kidney Outcomes.

Background: Cannabis consumption for recreational and medical use is increasing worldwide. However, the long-term effects on kidney health and disease are largely unknown. Materials and Methods: Post hoc analysis of cannabis use as a risk factor for kidney disease was performed using data from the Assessment, Serial Evaluation, and Subsequent Sequelae of Acute Kidney Injury (ASSESS-AKI) study that enrolled hospitalized adults with and without acute kidney injury from four U.S. centers during 2009-2015. Associations between self-reported cannabis consumption and the categorical and continuous outcomes were determined using multivariable Cox regression and linear mixed models, respectively. Results: Over a mean follow-up of 4.5±1.8 years, 94 participants without chronic kidney disease (CKD) (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] >60 mL/min/1.73 m2) who consumed cannabis had similar rates of annual eGFR decline versus 889 nonconsumers (mean difference=-0.02 mL/min/1.73 m2/year, p=0.9) and incident CKD (≥25% reduction in eGFR compared with the 3-month post-hospitalization measured eGFR and achieving CKD stage 3 or higher) (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]=1.2; 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.7-2.0). Nineteen participants with CKD (eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2) who consumed cannabis had more rapid eGFR decline versus 597 nonconsumers (mean difference=-1.3 mL/min/1.73 m2/year; p=0.02) that was not independently associated with an increased risk of CKD progression (≥50% reduction in eGFR compared with the 3-month post-hospitalization eGFR, reaching CKD stage 5, or receiving kidney replacement therapy) (aHR=1.6; 95% CI=0.7-3.5). Cannabis consumption was not associated with the rate of change in urine albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR) over time among those with (p=0.7) or without CKD (p=0.4). Conclusions: Cannabis consumption did not adversely affect the kidney function of participants without CKD but was associated with a faster annual eGFR decline among participants with CKD. Cannabis consumption was not associated with changes in UACR over time, incident CKD, or progressive CKD regardless of baseline kidney function. Additional research is needed to investigate the kidney endocannabinoid system and the impact of cannabis use on kidney disease outcomes.

Effectiveness of Mycophenolate Mofetil Among Patients With Progressive IgA Nephropathy

The role of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in management of immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) remains highly controversial. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of MMF in patients with IgAN at high risk of kidney function loss. This randomized clinical trial with open-label, blinded end-point design was conducted among adults with IgAN, proteinuria greater than 1.0 g/d, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) greater than 30 and less than 60 mL/min/1.73m2 or with persistent hypertension from September 2013 to December 2015. During a 3-month run-in period, 238 patients received optimized supportive care (SC), including losartan. Patients with a urinary protein excretion rate of 0.75 g/d or greater despite of 3 months optimized SC were enrolled into the trial for 3 years. Survivors of the trial who did not receive dialysis or transplant were followed up after the trial for a median (IQR) of 60 (47-76) months. Data were analyzed from March through June 2022. A total of 170 participants were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive MMF (initially, 1.5 g/d for 12 months, maintained at 0.75-1.0 g for at least 6 months) plus SC or SC alone. The primary outcomes were (1) a composite of doubling of serum creatinine, end-stage kidney disease (dialysis, transplant, or kidney failure without receiving kidney replacement therapy), or death due to kidney or cardiovascular cause and (2) progression of chronic kidney disease. Among 170 randomized patients (mean [SD] age 36.6 [9.4] years; 94 [55.3%] male patients), 85 patients received MMF with SC and 85 patients received SC alone. The mean (SD) eGFR was 50.1 (17.9) mL/min/1.73m2 and mean (SD) proteinuria level was 1.9 (1.7) g/d; 168 patients (98.8%) completed the trial, and 157 participants (92.4%) survived and did not receive dialysis or transplant. Primary composite outcome events occurred in 6 patients (7.1%) in the MMF group and 18 patients (21.2%) in the SC group (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.23; 95% CI, 0.09-0.63). Progression of chronic kidney disease occurred in 7 participants (8.2%) in the MMF group and 23 participants (27.1%) in the SC group (aHR, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.10-0.57). The effect of MMF treatment on primary outcomes was consistent across prespecified subgroups, with no significant interaction per subgroup. During posttrial follow-up, annual loss of eGFR accelerated after discontinuation of MMF; mean (SD) annual eGFR loss during the study period was 2.9 (1.0) mL/min/1.73m2 in the MMF group and 6.1 (1.2) mL/min/1.73m2 among 66 patients in the MMF group who discontinued MMF after the trial. Serious adverse events were not more frequent with MMF vs SC alone. This study found that addition of MMF to SC compared with SC alone significantly reduced risk of disease progression among patients with progressive IgAN. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01854814.

Hemodialysis versus peritoneal dialysis in COVID-19 clinical characteristics and outcomes: A single-center experience

The aim of this work was to perform a comparative analysis of the prevalence and clinical and laboratory features of the course of COVID-19 infection in patients with end-stage chronic kidney disease receiving kidney replacement therapy (KRT).&#x0D; Methods. A retrospective analysis of 73 medical records of patients undergoing KRT and infected COVID-19 between January 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021. The patients were divided into two groups. The first group consisted of 54 hemodialysis (HD) patients, and the second group included 19 peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Routine clinical and laboratory characteristics, morbidity, and mortality of COVID-19 depending on KRT modality were analysed.&#x0D; Results. The overall prevalence of COVID-19 was 37.63%. Mortality in this cohort of patients was 19.07%, and mortality associated with COVID-19 was 6.19%. Despite the predominance of COVID-19-associated morbidity in HD patients (46.55% vs. 24.36%, p = 0.05), mortality was not statistically significantly different between the studied groups (26.32% in PD patients vs. 12.96% in HD patients, p = 0.17).&#x0D; HD patients had more severe lung injury as measured by SpO2 (p=0.18) and CT (p=0.003), while PD patients had lower hemoglobin (p=0.001), platelet (p=0.001), total protein (p&lt;0.001), and albumin (p&lt;0.001) levels.&#x0D; A direct correlation was found between the percentage of lung injury according to the CT data and the leukocyte count in both the HD (r = 0.24) and PD (r = 0.56) groups. In addition, an inverse correlation between leukocyte and SpO2 values and between the percentage of lung injury according to the CT data and SpO2 indicators was found in the HD (r = -0.51 and r = -0.66) and PD (r = -0.47 and r = -0.63) groups, respectively.&#x0D; Conclusions. The results of our study are in complete agreement with published data and show the same COVID-19-associated mortality in HD and PD patients, with a statistically significantly higher prevalence of COVID-19 in HD patients. The course of COVID-19 in HD patients is characterized by more severe lung injury compared to PD patients, while PD patients had more pronounced anemia and significantly lower platelet, total protein, and blood albumin concentrations.

COVID-19 Infection in Patients Receiving Kidney Replacement Therapy Under Universal Health Coverage in Thailand

COVID-19 Infection in Patients Receiving Kidney Replacement Therapy Under Universal Health Coverage in Thailand

Predictors of advanced chronic kidney disease in infancy after definitive vesicoamniotic shunting for congenital lower urinary tract obstruction.

BackgroundSevere congenital lower urinary tract obstruction (cLUTO) is associated with poor postnatal outcomes, including chronic and end stage kidney disease, and high mortality. Studies of the impact of fetal intervention through vesicoamniotic shunting are marred by a device malfunction rate of up to 60%. In this study, we delineate the postnatal course and infant kidney function following definitive urinary diversion in utero.Materials and MethodsThis is a retrospective, single-center cohort study of 16 male infants who survived the fetal intervention to birth, from 2010 to 2014 at a single center. All had patent shunts in place at birth. Perinatal and biochemical characteristics were collected with patients followed for one year, or until demise, with serial measures of serum creatinine (SCr) and serum cystatin C (CysC).ResultsOf the 16 males, 81% were non-white (38% black, 43% Hispanic). Shunts were placed at a median of 20 weeks (IQR 19,23) gestation, with median fetal bladder volume of 39 cm3 (IQR 9.9,65). All neonates were born preterm [median 34 weeks (IQR 31,35)] and the majority with low birth weight [median 2340 grams (1,895, 2,600)]. 63% required positive pressure ventilation. Advanced chronic kidney disease stage 4–5 at 1 year of age was predicted by neonatal characteristics: peak SCr ≥2 mg/dl, time to peak SCr > 6 days, discharge SCr ≥1.0 mg/dl, CysC ≥2.5 mg/l, urine protein:creatinine ≥4.8 mg/mg, urine microalbumin:creatinine ≥2.2 mg/mg. In infancy, a nadir SCr ≥0.5 mg/dl occurring before 160 days (5.3 months) of age was also predictive of advanced chronic kidney disease stage 4–5 at 1 year. Three patients died in the neonatal period, with 1 receiving kidney replacement therapy (KRT). Three additional patients required KRT before 12 months of age.ConclusionsEven with definitive vesicoamniotic shunting for cLUTO, postnatal morbidity and mortality remain high, emphasizing the role of renal dysplasia, in spite of urinary diversion, in postnatal kidney dysfunction. Neonatal and infant biochemical parameters exhibit distinct trends that offer families and physicians a better understanding of the prognosis of childhood kidney function.

Factors associated with occurrence and severity of acute kidney injury in patients with Sepsis – A retrospective database study

PurposeSepsis remains the most common cause of acute kidney injury (AKI) and is associated with a high mortality. This study aims to identify laboratory, clinical and demographic factors that are associated with the different stages of AKI in sepsis. MethodsWe studied patients >18 years who met Sepsis-3 criteria between July 10, 2009 and September 7, 2019 using ordinal logistic regression to determine the factors associated with different stages of AKI. Sensitivity analyses for development of any stage vs no AKI and, separately, the factors associated with receipt of kidney replacement therapy were also done. ResultsOf 31,228 patients meeting Sepsis-3 criteria, 4684 (15%) developed AKI. Of the AKI patients, 53% were KDIGO stage 1, 9% stage 2, and 37% stage 3, with 27% of AKI patients receiving kidney replacement therapy (Stage 3b). Several comorbidities, mechanical ventilation, and pre-sepsis creatinine levels were associated with AKI occurrence and severity. Positive blood culture was associated with a higher risk (OR 1.10 [1.06, 1.15], p < 0.001), while positive respiratory, urine, and wound cultures were associated with lower risks of developing AKI and with lower severity. ConclusionPresepsis creatinine levels, mechanical ventilation, comorbidities, and positive blood cultures were associated with AKI.