Regular Hemodialysis Research Articles

Assessment of Hemodiafiltration Versus Haemodialysis on Anemia Profile Among Regular Haemodialysis Patients

Assessment of Hemodiafiltration Versus Haemodialysis on Anemia Profile Among Regular Haemodialysis Patients

Association between TMSE/MoCA and MIS/NAF in ESKD patients undergoing hemodialysis: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundBoth cognitive impairment and malnutrition are common in hemodialysis (HD) patients and are associated with increased hospitalization rates, infection, poor clinical outcomes, and mortality. The study investigated the association between cognitive and nutrition status among end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) patients undergoing hemodialysis.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, we enrolled 115 patients with ESKD who underwent regular hemodialysis (HD). Data collection included the use of screening tools for mild cognitive impairment (MCI), specifically Thai Mental State Examination (TMSE) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). In addition, we collected data using nutritional screening tools including Malnutrition Inflammation Score (MIS) and Nutrition Alert Form (NAF). Our primary outcome was to demonstrate whether there was a relationship between TMSE/MoCA and MIS/NAF scores in this population. Secondary outcomes were a prevalence of MCI and malnutrition status in ESKD patients, an association between TMSE and MoCA with other surrogate nutritional markers, and factors affecting MCI in such patients.ResultsA total of 109 patients undergoing HD completed our protocol. Their mean age was 63.42 (± 15.82) years, and 51.38% were male. Mean TMSE and MoCA were 23.98 (± 5.06) points and 18.3 (± 6.40) points, respectively. The prevalence of TMSE ≤ 23 and MoCA ≤ 24 were 39.45% and 83.49%, respectively. TMSE had a statistically significant negative correlation with MIS (R2 = 0.16, p < 0.001) and NAF. MoCA also negatively correlated with MIS and NAF. The age, total educational year, the status of whether having a caregiver, serum albumin, serum phosphorus level, handgrip strength, and lean mass tissue were correlated with TMSE.ConclusionNutritional parameters, including MIS score, NAF score, serum albumin, lean tissue mass, and lean tissue index, significantly correlate with TMSE and MoCA.

Correlation Between RET-He and Quality of Life in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients with Routine Hemodialysis: A Study at Ulin General Hospital Banjarmasin

Background: The 2018 Riskesdas report revealed that the incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects 0.38% of Indonesia’s population. Anemia frequently complicates CKD, especially in patients undergoing regular hemodialysis. Reticulocyte hemoglobin equivalent (RET-He) assesses hemoglobin content in reticulocytes, indicating iron availability for erythropoiesis in the bone marrow. CKD significantly impacts patients' socio-economic status, heightening morbidity and mortality while diminishing quality of life. The relationship between RET-He and the quality of life in CKD patients on routine hemodialysis remains unclear. Objective: To investigate the correlation between RET-He and quality of life in CKD patients undergoing routine hemodialysis. Methods: A cross-sectional observational analytical study with data from medical records of CKD patients receiving routine hemodialysis between October 1st and October 30th, 2021. The Spearman correlation test was used for analysis. Results: This study included 92 patients, consisting of 40 males and 52 females, with a median age of 50 years and RET-He values at 31. Quality of life metrics included physical function (800, range: 0-1000), physical limitations (300, range: 0-400), body pain (175, range: 75-255), general health (475, range: 225-600), vitality (320, range: 200-400), social function (175, range: 75-200), emotional limitations (300, range: 100-300), and mental health (380, range: 160-500). The correlation analysis revealed no significant relationships: physical function (p=0.359), physical limitations (p=0.813), body pain (p=0.373), general health (p=0.547), vitality (p=0.616), social function (p=0.828), emotional limitations (p=0.482), and mental health (p=0.136). Conclusion: There is no significant correlation between RET-He levels and the quality of life in CKD patients undergoing regular hemodialysis.

Lorlatinib experience in a patient with ALK + non-small cell lung cancer on hemodialysis: A case report.

Lorlatinib is a potent third-generation anaplastic lymphoma kinase/c-ros oncogene 1 (ALK)/ROS1 oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor that has broad coverage of acquired resistance mutations and is currently indicated for the treatment of adult patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumors are ALK-positive. In this case, we aimed to present the safety and effectiveness of lorlatinib use in a patient diagnosed with ALK-positive metastatic NSCLC who underwent hemodialysis 3 days a week. A 76-year-old female patient has been undergoing regular hemodialysis for about 2 years. A brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was taken due to headache and a mass was detected. She was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma as a result of excisional biopsy. Positron emission tomography/ computed tomography (PET/CT) showed a mass in the hilar region of the left lung and multiple lymphadenopathy in the mediastinum. In February 2023, 100 mg lorlatinib was started daily. There was no significant regression in PET-CT and no brain MRI residue during follow-up. The patient has been continuing lorlatinib for approximately 1 year with almost complete response, with no side effects other than hypercholesterolemia. We presented our experience using lorlatinib in a patient with metastatic ALK + NSCLC undergoing hemodialysis. Although the dosage of lorlatinib in hemodialysis patients is still controversial, our case report indicates that 100 mg lorlatinib was safe in this patient.

Comparison of Protein Energy Wasting Assessment on Quality of Life Regular Hemodialysis Patients

Background. Protein energy wasting (PEW) is one of several markers of the quality of hemodialysis (HD) services in Indonesia, however not many studies conducted PEW assessement with quality of life (QoL) domain of regular HD patients. Aim: To determine comparison of PEW assessment with QoL domains in regular HD patients. Method: A Cross-sectional study with total sampling of 105 regular HD patients at Sanjiwani Gianyar General Hospital, on June to July 2022, The PEW assessments: body mass index (BMI), serum albumin, subjective global assessment (SGA), malnutrition inflammation score (MIS), and the International Society of Renal Nutrition and Malnutrition (ISRNM) with QoL domains by KDQOL-SF (Kidney Disease Quality of Life Short Form). Results. Most of the subjects were men (54.2%), the mean age was51.66 years and mean duration of HD was 50.28 months. The mean of BMI, serum creatinine, and serum albumin were 23.46 kg/m2, 9.70 mg/dL, and 3.86 mg/dL respectively, and median MIS 5. This study obtained significant correlation of BMI and QoL domains: work status, physical functioning, role of physics, energy/fatigue, and SF 12 physical composite. The MIS also significantly correlated with emotional well-being, sleep, and burden of disease. And ISRNM significantly correlated with energy/fatigue, and sexual function, On logistic regression analysis, this study obtained that albumin was significantly related to general health, emotional well-being, and energy/fatigue, Conclusion: Assessment of PEW (BMI, serum albumin, MIS, SGA, and ISRNM ) were related to several domains of QoL.

Methicillin-Sensible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) Pericardial Effusion Causing Cardiac Tamponade: A case report

Background: Methicillin-Sensible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) as the pathogen of the pericardial space is an uncommon case that can be fatal if untreated. The underlying disease accompany with infection that lead to cardiac tamponade can increase mortality rate of the patient. Case description: We present a 29 years old male patient with severe dispnea who was found to have cardiac tamponade secondary to a purulent pericardial effusion. He was also had end stage renal disease with regular hemodialysis. The diagnosis was suggested by clinical context, imaging, pericardial fluid analysis and was confirmed by culture. MSSA were isolated from 2 times pericardial fluid, peripheral blood and double lumen catheter exit site swab that were growth in blood agar only. Identification and susceptibility to antibiotics was assessed by Vitek2 Compact automated system (BioMerieux), represent sensitive to penicillin, cephalosporin, quinolone, aminoglycoside except macrolides. Administration of cefazolin intravenous for 5 days and also pericardial drainage result in a full recovery for the patient. Discussion: Purulent pericardial effusion is a rare condition that carries a high mortality rate as it can rapidly progress into cardiac tamponade. In developing countries, Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the most frequent cause of acute pericarditis followed by Haemophilus, Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. Prior to the advent of antibiotics, Staphylococcus aureus takes role as the predominant pathogen, this event was common as the result of hematogenous seeding such as catheter related hemodialysis in this patient. Conclusion: Prompt diagnosis of purulent pericardial effusion also initiation of appropriate antibiotic and pericardial drainage treatment are the mainstays of successful management of this rare but potentially lethal case.

Evaluation of serum ferritin level and hepatitis b and hepatitis c viral infection in chronic hemodialysis patients.

The most popular treatment for end-stage renal illness is hemodialysis (HD). The study aimed to assess serum ferritin levels and their connection to Epoetin alfa resistance, along with exploring the link between hepatitis C virus, iron overload, and the prevalence of hepatitis C and B infections in chronic HD patients. This was a descriptive-analytical study conducted on 50 Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) who were on regular HD in the dialysis unit of Ibin Sina Teaching Hospital in Mosul City, Iraq. Out of 50 patients, 26 (52%) tested positive for Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Antibody, 10 (20%) for Hepatitis B surface Antigen (HBsAg), and 14 (28%) tested negative for both. Higher serum iron and ferritin levels were found in HCV antibody-positive patients (p < 0.05). Despite Epoetin alfa treatment, patients with elevated ferritin levels exhibited lower Hemoglobin (HB) and Packed Cell Volume (p < 0.05). Non-diabetics exhibited significantly higher serum ferritin, Hemoglobin, Blood urea, and serum creatinine than diabetics (p < 0.05). A noteworthy association was seen between the quantity of blood transfusions and elevated levels of serum ferritin and total serum iron (p < 0.05). Most HD patients were anemic, with Hepatitis B and C prevalent. The main CKD causes were diabetes and hypertension. HCV-positive patients often showed mild to moderate iron overload, and high serum ferritin was linked to poor Epoetin alfa response. Dialysis can elevate blood urea, ferritin, and creatinine, worsening anemia. High ferritin levels may hinder response to Epoetin alfa and iron replacement. Excessive blood transfusions can lead to iron overload and inhibit erythropoiesis. Maintaining HB at 110-120 g/l improves quality of life and reduces anemia-related risks.

Study on the occurrence and influencing factors of gastrointestinal symptoms in hemodialysis patients with uremia.

Gastrointestinal symptoms are common in patients with uremia undergoing hemodialysis, and these symptoms seriously affect patients' prognosis. To assess the occurrence and factors influencing gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with uremia undergoing hemodialysis. We retrospectively selected 98 patients with uremia who underwent regular hemodialysis treatment in the blood purification center of our hospital from December 2022 to December 2023. The gastrointestinal symptoms and scores of each dimension were evaluated using the Gastrointestinal Symptom Grading Scale (GSRS). Patients were divided into gastrointestinal symptoms and no gastrointestinal symptom groups according to whether they had gastrointestinal symptoms. The factors that may affect gastrointestinal symptoms were identified by single-factor analysis. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors for gastrointestinal symptoms. Gastrointestinal symptoms included indigestion, constipation, reflux, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and eating disorders, and the total average GSRS score was 1.35 ± 0.47. This study showed that age, number of tablets, dialysis time, glucocorticoid, parathyroid hormone (PTH), combined diabetes mellitus and C-reactive protein (CRP) were independent risk factors for gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with uremia undergoing hemodialysis, whereas body mass index (BMI), hemoglobin (Hb), and urea clearance index were independent protective factors (P < 0.05). Gastrointestinal symptoms are mostly mild in patients with uremia undergoing hemodialysis, most commonly including dyspepsia, eating disorders, and gastroesophageal reflux. The independent influencing factors mainly include the BMI, age, number of pills taken, dialysis time, urea clearance index, Hb, use of glucocorticoids, and thyroid hormone level. PTH, CRP, and diabetes are clinically related factors influencing the occurrence of gastrointestinal symptoms, and targeted prevention can be performed.

Unexplained colonic necrosis in a patient with end-stage kidney disease on chronic hemodialysis: case report and review of uremic colitis

BackgroundIntestinal necrosis in uremic patients has been reported but is rare.Case presentationA 56-year-old male patient who underwent long-term regular haemodialysis was admitted to the hospital due to involuntary shaking of the limbs and nonsense speech. The patient’s symptoms improved after continuous blood purification under heparin anticoagulation, rehydration, sedation, and correction of electrolyte disturbances. However, the patient experienced a sudden onset of abdominal pain and a rapid decrease in blood pressure; high-dose norepinephrine were required to maintain his blood pressure. A plain abdominal radiograph performed at bedside showed intestinal dilation. Colonoscopy revealed inflammation and oedema of the entire colon, with purulent secretions and multiple areas of patchy necrosis. The cause of intestinal ischaemia was not clear.ConclusionsAlthough rare, previous causes of uremic colitis have been reported. As the patient developed abdominal pain before the onset of shock and the necrosis was seen on colonoscopy, we suspect that this is a case of fulminant uremic colitis.

Study of the Efficacy and Safety of Darbepoetin Alfa versus Epoetin Alfa in the Treatment of Anemia in Pediatric Patients on Regular Hemodialysis

Abstract Background Anemia is a common comorbidity in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). That affects the vast majority and can have a significant impact on patient morbidity and mortality. Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) are the main lines in management of anemia in hemodialysis patients. Replacement therapy with recombinant human erythropoietin (r- HuEPO) has provided an effective treatment for patients with renal “Epoetin alfa” is a recombinant erythropoietin with the same amino acid sequence as human erythropoietin (EPO). In comparison to epoetin alfa, darbepoetin alfa (DPO) contains an increased amount of sialic acid-containing carbohydrate chains. It shows a much longer elimination half-life than epoetin alfa, with prolonged erythropoietic effect. Aim of the Work to evaluate whether darbpoetin and epopoetin alpha can be used interchangeably on the same patient, achieving the same desired effect and to detect any difference in the occurrence of side effects between both ESAs. Patient and Methods This was a crossover study that took place in the Pediatrics Dialysis unit, Children’s Hospital, Ain Shams University. The study was conducted on 40 children with end stage renal disease on regular hemodialysis over a period of 6 months. The patients were randomly put into two groups A and B, each group contained 20 patients. Each group received one type of ESA either ( darbpoetin alpha or epopoetin alpha )for 3 months and then shifted to the other type of ESA for another 3 months. The dosage of epoetin alfa used was (200 IU/kg/week) and a conversion rate of EPO: DPO, 300:1. A period of 6 weeks was agreed as a washout period after the first drug given in both groups in which no results were recorded but ESA was not stopped due to its essentiality. Blood tests (hemoglobin (Hb), serum urea, serum creatinine and iron profile; (S. iron, S. ferritin, TIBC, and transferrin saturation)) were withdrawn at the start and the end of the 3 months’ period of each drug. Results We found no difference on the Hb level with both drugs. The interchange between them did not yield any significant drop in the Hb levels. Hb target in both EPO and DPO was reached in 22.5% of total cases, and was not reached in 62.5%. This proved that both drugs give the same effect with nearly negligible difference. No serious Sside effect as convulsions, hypertension, and thrombosis were noticed in both groups. Conclusion The target Hb was not reached in most patients of both groups of ESRD on regular hemodialysis at the unit and none of both drugs showed superior results or less side effects than the other.

Effect of Parathyroid Hormone on Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Patients on Regular Hemodialysis

Abstract Background Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and accounts for much of the morbidity in this population. Aim of the Work We therefore aimed to consider the evidences regarding the role of excess PTH in the development of left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy as well as LV ejection fraction in patients with end-stage renal disease under regular hemodialysis. Patients and Methods This study was cross sectional study and was conducted in hemodialysis unit, Elsahel Hospital. This study was conducted on 70 patients on regular hemodialysis (3 times a week for at least 6 months) for timing of study from January 2022 to June 2022. Results In our study, we demonstrated that there was statistically significant relation between P.T.H quartiles and LVMI which found higher in 2nd quartile and lower in 3rd quartile with p-value = 0.036. Our results showed that there was statistically significant positive correlation found between LVMASS and AP, LVEDD, PWT, IVST and LVMI and also negative correlation between LVMASS and weight, BMI and EF% among female patients. Conclusion our study suggested the role of hyperparathyroidism in the development of LVH, with a potential impact on cardiovascular outcome for patients on HD. Adverse effects of secondary hyperparathyroidism on LV function and structure showed the role of excess PTH in the development of left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy as well as low LV ejection fraction in patients with end-stage renal disease under hemodialysis which needs more attention to control of secondary hyperparathyroidism to reduce the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in dialysis patients.

COVID-19 in Egyptian Children on Regular Hemodialysis: Experience of a Single Center

Abstract Background COVID-19 is clinically characterized by high rates of transmission, and pathological abnormalities. Pediatric patients with CKD are at high risk of COVID-19 infection &amp; morbidity. Aim of the Work We aimed at studying the rate of infection by COVID-19 in pediatric patients following up at our Pediatric dialysis &amp; Nephrology unit, Ain Shams University. Patients and Methods This retrospective study was conducted over 12 months from 1st of March 2020 to end of February 2021 on 70 pediatric patients with chronic kidney disease stage 5 on regular hemodialysis (CDK5d). Results The mean age &amp; dialysis duration of our studied patients was 11.89 (±3.01) years &amp; 2.17(±1.2)years respectively, where the incidence of COVID-19 infection confirmed by PCR on nasal swab sampleswas 7%. The younger patients had a higher rate of COVID-19 infection than older ones (p = 0.05). Using public transportation during past 14 days before getting COVID-19 infection was significant in COVID-19 positive patients (p = 0.01). The common associated symptoms in our patients were fever, joint ache, muscle ache, loss of appetite, headache, shortness of breath, fatigue, cough, sore throat, nausea, loss of smell or taste, diarrhea, vomiting. Conclusion COVID-19 infection among our CDK5d patients was not uncommon with incidence of 7%, where younger patients were infected more frequently than older patients The common associated symptoms in our patients were fever, joint ache, muscle ache, loss of appetite, headache, shortness of breath, fatigue, cough, sore throat, nausea, loss of smell or taste, diarrhea, vomiting.

Effect of Central Dialysis Fluid Delivery System (CDDS) using high flux dialyzer versus Regular Water Treatment Stations on Endotoxemia and Inflammatory Markers among Prevalent Patients on Regular Hemodialysis

Abstract Background and Objectives Translocated endotoxins derived either from intestinal bacteria or backfiltration, have a wide range of adverse effects on patients. Most end stage renal disease (ESRD) patients have systemic inflammation which increases the risk of morbidity and mortality. The central dialysis fluid delivery system (CDDS) has been used exclusively in Japan since 1960s, and now is being used in Ain Shams University. Our aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of (CDDS) versus single patient dialysis fluid delivery system (SPDDS) on endotoxemia and inflammatory markers among prevalent patients on regular hemodialysis (HD). Methods Eighty Patients were randomly selected from HD units, then divided into two groups, (group I) doing HD using CDDS water purification system at El Demerdash Hospital, (group II) using regular water purification system at Ain Shams University Specialized Hospital. Pre- dialysis and post-dialysis serum samples were obtained to measure endotoxin levels of both groups, as well as postdialysis serum samples were obtained to measure interleukin 6 (IL6) level and highly sensitive Creactive protein (Hs CRP). Results Circulating endotoxemia was most notable in group II, The mean predialysis endotoxin level in group I was 0.07 ± 0.05 Eu/mL, while in group II was 0.20 ± 0.07 Eu/mL and mean of post-dialysis endotoxin level in group I was 0.04 ± 0.02 Eu/mL, while in group II was 0.15 ± 0.03 Eu/mL. IL6 as well as Hs CRP levels were higher in group II in comparison to group I. Conclusion Our data showed significant reduction in circulating endotoxins in CDDS group.

Comparative Study Evaluating the Effect of the Administration of Vitamin K1 versus Placebo on Vascular Calcification in Haemodialysis Patients

Abstract Background Cardiovascular calcification is a risk factor and contributor to morbidity and mortality in End stage kidney disease patients. Cardiovascular calcification is most likely due to an imbalance of promoters (e.g. Calcium and phosphate) and inhibitors (e.g. fetuin-A and matrix Gla protein). Aim of the Work We aimed to study the effect of oral vitamin k1 on serum carboxylated Matrix gla protein in patients on maintenance hemodialysis and to study its effect as an important marker of vascular calcification. Patients and Methods This Placebo Controlled clinical trial was conducted for 3 months on 80 adult ESRD patients on regular Hemodialysis randomly allocated into 2 groups of either vitamin K1 versus oral placebo tablet administration for 3 months. Patients in both groups were age and sex matched, study group included 18 (45%) males and 22 (55%) females with mean age ± SD 47.350 ± 14.420 years, while the placebo group included 16 (40%) males and 24 (60%) with mean age ± SD 49.500 ± 14.509 years, with no significant difference between both groups as regard demographic data, access of hemodialysis, and duration of Hemodialysis. Results There was no significant change in bone parameters (serum Ca, PO4 &amp; Ca/PO4 product) after 3 months of vit K1 administration compared to baseline in the study group. Serum phosphorus levels showed a minimal, yet statistically significant decrease after 3 months of placebo administration, this might be attributed to the different doses of PO4 binders in patients of both groups. Consequently, Ca/ PO4 product showed a statistically significant decrease after 3 months of placebo administration (P = 0.002), mostly attributed to the significant decrease in serum phosphorus in the same group over the same period. We observed that serum MGP levels significantly increased after administration of vitamin k1 in study group (P &amp;lt; 0.001) with 78.05% increase. However, a much lower increase, yet statistically significant increase in serum MGP level was noticed in the placebo group (P &amp;lt; 0.001) with 40.60 % increase. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups according to their risk factors regarding smoking, HTN, HCV, DM, and ISHD. Conclusion We concluded that Oral vitamin K1 therapy significantly increased serum active form of Matrix GLA protein levels among hemodialysis patients with potential decrease in cardiovascular calcification and cardiovascular diseases.

Assessment of Secondary Hyperparathyroidism as a ‎Cause of Pulmonary Hypertension among End Stage ‎Renal Disease Patients on Regular Hemodialysis

Assessment of Secondary Hyperparathyroidism as a ‎Cause of Pulmonary Hypertension among End Stage ‎Renal Disease Patients on Regular Hemodialysis

The Impact of Bone Mineral Biomarkers on Diastolic Cardiac Function in Children and Adolescents on Regular Hemodialysis

The Impact of Bone Mineral Biomarkers on Diastolic Cardiac Function in Children and Adolescents on Regular Hemodialysis

Protective Effect of Probiotic Against Progression of Chronic Kidney Disease: A Randomized Clinical Study

Abstract Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a gradual, irreversible disease with severe global health implications. By raising the level of urea toxins in the body, gut microbiota dysbiosis may hasten the onset of chronic renal disease. Probiotics have been recognized to keep the intestinal microbiota’s physiological equilibrium. In an effort to develop alternatives to chronic hemodialysis, much research has been carried out, especially for elderly patients who face psychological challenges. Objectives: The goal of this study is to assess the therapeutic benefits of probiotics on CKD patients. Materials and Methods: This randomized clinical trial was carried out at the Dialysis Center of Al-Diwaniyah Medical Hospital in Diwaniyah Governorate. Forty-two patients with end-stage renal disease on regular hemodialysis were enrolled, with 21 patients receiving oral probiotic supplementation in addition to standard care, and 21 patients receiving only standard care. Blood samples were collected at the baseline and after eight weeks, and several biomarkers were measured, including estimated glomerular filtration rate, creatinine, urea, phosphorus, albumin, and indoxyl sulfate. Results: The results showed that there was a significant difference in the mean difference of blood urea (P = 0.008) and serum phosphorus (P = 0.004) among groups, and the significant level was attributed to the probiotic group. However, the other biomarkers were not affected by the treatment. Conclusion: The use of oral probiotics for 8 weeks in Iraqi patients on hemodialysis can improve urea and phosphorus levels and safeguard the intestinal epithelial barrier in CKD patients.

EVALUATION OF VITAMIN B12 LEVELS WITH NEUROPATHIC PAIN IN HEMODIALYSIS PATIENTS: A SINGLE CENTER OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Background: Uremic syndrome in chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly in hemodialysis (HD) patients, is a growing global health problem. The majority of patients with this condition experience one or more neurological disorders, such as neuropathic pain. One of the adjuvant therapies in the treatment of neuropathic pain is vitamin B12, which is important for the regeneration and myelination of peripheral nerves and also plays an important role in the restoration of functional nerves. Objective: The aim of this research is to evaluate the role of vitamin B12 in the relief of pain symptoms Method: This research was conducted at General Hospital in Bali use a case-control design and consecutive sampling. This was carried use 21 patients with CKD on regular hemodialysis with neuropathic pain, while 22 patients without neuropathic pain were used as the control group. All patients were tested for serum vitamin B12 levels. Neuropathic pain was assessed using the DN4. Results: The data values of total vitamin B12 levels in blood serum were obtained within a range of 81.72 pmol/L to 2337.5 pmol/L, and a median value of 1306.25 pmol/L. A cut-off value of 1509.375 pmol/L was obtained with 76.2% sensitivity and 59.1% specificity. Furthermore, an odd ratio between low serum vitamin B12 and the incidence of neuropathic pain was also obtained, namely OR= 3.611 (95% CI= 1.012-12.9; p=0.044). Conclusion: It was found that low serum vitamin B12 in CKD patients on hemodialysis increased the risk of experiencing neuropathic pain by 3.611 times compared to those with normal serum vitamin B12.

The effect of oral sodium bicarbonate on the improvement of interdialytic acidosis and hyperkalemia in prevalent hemodialysis patients

Background Uremic toxins closely fit the saw-toothed profile including electrolytes, such as potassium, which is statistically associated with peri-dialytic morbidity and mortality. Acidosis follows a similar inverse pattern, with the bicarbonate levels gradually falling during the inter-dialytic period, before rapid supplementation during dialysis. Observational studies of clinical outcomes support the view that acidosis is harmful, showing that, after adjustment for comorbidity, pre-dialysis bicarbonate levels (HCO3) below 22 mmol/l are associated with excess mortality. The aim of this work is to study the effect of oral sodium bicarbonate supplementation on improvement of interdialytic acidosis, and hyperkalemia in patients on regular hemodialysis (HD). Patients and methods This was a one-arm interventional study that was conducted on a group of 50 adult end-stage renal disease patients on regular HD 3 times weekly at least for 3 months. Results Our study population’s mean ages were 41.8 ± 10.5 years, with male predominance 58%. PH value before and after sodium bicarbonate supplementation was 7.29 ± 0.07 and 7.38 ± 0.05, respectively, with level change 0.09 ± 0.06, which was statistically significant. Bicarbonate levels before and after sodium bicarbonate supplementation were 18.0 ± 1.8 and 23.4 ± 2.1(mmol/l), respectively, with level change 5.4 ± 1.7 (mmol/l), which was statistically significant. Also, potassium level (K) before and after sodium bicarbonate supplementation was 5.4 ± 0.5 and 5.0 ± 0.4 (mmol/l) respectively with level change –0.4 ± 0.3 (mmol/l), which was statistically significant. Regarding interdialytic body weight before and after sodium bicarbonate supplementation was 75.6 ± 6.5 and 75.5 ± 6.7 (kg), respectively, its change was –0.1 ± 0.5 (kg), which was statistically nonsignificant. As regards systolic blood pressure before and after sodium bicarbonate supplementation was 123.8 ± 11.4 and 125.6 ± 14.3 (mmHg), respectively, its change was 1.8 ± 9.4 (mmHg), which was statistically nonsignificant. Diastolic blood pressure before and after sodium bicarbonate supplementation was 76.0 ± 7.6 and 77.0 ± 8.1 (mmHg), respectively, and its change was 1.0 ± 9.5 (mmHg), which was statistically nonsignificant. Conclusion Oral sodium bicarbonate supplementation is effective in correcting interdialytic metabolic acidosis (PH and bicarbonate level) and hyperkalemia in HD patients without causing any significant increase in interdialytic body weight or systolic-diastolic blood pressure.

Malnutrition among Egyptian hemodialysis patients: prevalence and risk factors

Background Malnutrition commonly affects hemodialysis (HD) patients. Malnourished HD patients have increased morbidity and mortality. We aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors of malnutrition among Egyptian hemodialysis patients. Material and methods This is a cross-sectional study carried out on ESRD patients with regular HD. All participants were subjected to detailed history taking and complete physical examination. Assessment of nutritional status was done using subjective global assessment (SGA). Anthropometric measures included mid-arm circumference (MAC), triceps skin fold (TSF), and body mass index (BMI) assessment. Results One hundred thirty patients with a mean age of 55.2 ± 12.6 years, completed the study. The mean duration of HD was 4.51 ± 3.68 years. The mean SGA was 12.1 ± 3.9. Malnutrition was present in 34 (26.2%) patients [mild to moderate (23.8%), severe (2.4%)]. Patients had a mean BMI of 25.69 ± 4.5 kg/m2, a mean MAC of 25.9 ± 4.9 cm, and a mean TSF of 18.1 ± 8.9 mm. There was a significant negative correlation between malnutrition and mid arm circumference and serum Na with P value of 0.003 and 0.012, respectively. Patients with malnutrition had a significantly longer duration on HD (P=0.004), lower Kt/V (P=0.040), lower serum albumin (P=0.007), lower BMI (P=0.002), less MAC (P=0.002), less TSF (P=0.002). Conclusions Malnutrition is common in HD patients with a significant inverse correlation with mid arm circumference and serum Na. Malnourished patients had a longer duration on HD, lowered serum albumin, BMI, dialysis adequacy and anthropometric measures.