JournalTOCs

Journal of Clinical Nephrology
Number of Followers: 1

This is an Open Access Journal

Open Access journal
ISSN (Online) 2576-9529
Published by Heighten Science Publication Corporation

[23 journals]

Neurocognitive and Adaptive Functioning in Young Patients with Severe
Chronic Kidney Disease
- Authors: Sophie Lijdsman*; Jasmijn Kerklaan, Lotte Haverman, Marit S van Sandwijk, Antonia H Bouts, Koen van Hoeck, Huib de Jong, Frederike J Bemelman, Allison Jaure, Jaap W Groothoff, Kim J Oostrom
  Abstract: Background: To assess the association between neurocognitive functioning, adaptive functioning, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL), in Children and Young Adults with Severe Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).Methods: We included patients with severe CKD (stages 4 and 5), aged 8-30 years, on different therapy modalities (pre-dialysis, dialysis, and transplanted) and healthy controls matched on age, sex, and parental education. All patients and healthy controls performed tasks to assess neurocognitive functioning (WISC/WAIS and a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery), and completed questionnaires to assess adaptive functioning (WFIRS or WHODAS) and HRQoL (PedsQL). Group differences were explored using MANCOVA. Mediation analyses were done to explore whether the relation between neurocognitive functioning and HRQoL was mediated by adaptive functioning. Results: 28 patients with severe CKD and 21 healthy matched controls were included. CKD patients had worse HRQoL (p < .001) than healthy controls. Adaptive functioning problems increased with age in the CKD patient group but not in the healthy control group (significant interaction effect: p = .024). Significant mediation effects were found, where impaired adaptive functioning mediated the relation between both low estimated Full Scale Intelligence Quotient (eFSIQ) and worse Processing Speed & Working Memory, and impaired HRQoL (eFSIQ: 95% confidence interval = .01-.58; Processing Speed & Working Memory: 95% confidence interval = 2.31-16.36).Conclusion: We found that impaired neurocognitive functioning is associated with worse HRQoL, which is conditional to impaired adaptive functioning. Especially towards young adulthood problems in adaptive functioning are more likely to be reported than when patients are younger.
  PubDate: 2024-06-11 11:36:40
Bridging the Gap: Challenges and Solutions in Online Nephrology Education
- Authors: Mohamad M Habli*
  Abstract: The outbreak of COVID-19 has created an unprecedented situation that has accelerated online education in areas like nephrology, which are traditionally served by onsite training. Efforts to educate clinicians remotely provide convenience and flexibility but may leave many open questions when it comes to how well-trained professionals maybe after completing their programs online. This review paper has emphasized the deleterious effects of online nephrology education and identified a number of ways in which it can be problematic such as lack of hands-on training, less patient interface, lack of proper supervision, and inconsistent quality of programs. The ability to make a difference, however, is further restricted by technological barriers and resource constraints. Whilst these programs tend to focus on creating knowledgeable graduates, they often fail to provide the clinical exposure necessary for preparedness. Hybrid programs - which combine online courses with clinical training in person are required to deliver high-quality nephrology care.
  PubDate: 2024-06-11 10:10:20
Renal Adverse Reaction Secondary to Check-point Inhibitors in
Metastatic Renal Cancer
- Authors: Marta Guerra Lacambra*; Miguel Angel Gonzalez Martinez, Vanesa García Chumillas, Francisco Gutierrez Tejero
  Abstract: Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (PCIs,) are monoclonal antibodies directed against immune checkpoint regulatory molecules. These antibodies inhibit T-cell activation and prolong survival in patients with different types of cancer. However, they can produce adverse effects related to the immune response such as renal damage.We present the clinical case of a 75-year-old man with a personal history of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and metastatic renal cancer with lung, bone, and mediastinal involvement. He started treatment with immunotherapy with Nivolumab-Ipilimumab. Then, after 4 cycles of immunotherapy, the patient was admitted to the Urology Department for an adverse reaction to immunotherapy with the development of nephritis and toxic hepatitis. Despite treatment with methylprednisolone, he evolved poorly, and a palliative approach was finally decided.The incidence of acute renal failure attributed to PCIs is estimated at 2% - 3%, being grade I-II in most cases. Among the renal complications associated with PCIs, acute interstitial nephritis is the most predominant with an incidence of 80% - 90% of cases. In addition, an increased risk is observed in patients with intermediate or poor risk metastatic renal cancer.Despite their fundamental role in metastatic renal cancer, we must take into account the potential for renal failure as an adverse effect of PCIs, especially in patients with previous CKD.
  PubDate: 2024-05-17 15:30:15
Elimination of Medium/High Molecular Weight Solutes. Comparison of High
Flow Hemodialysis with Extended Hemodialysis
- Authors: Manuel Benítez Sánchez*; Sergio Barrero, Maria R Da Silva, Carlos Martinez, Guillermo Manuel Tirado, Sonia Cruz
  Abstract: Introduction: Post-dilution online hemodiafiltration is the most efficient extracorporeal depurative treatment of CKD. Recently a new type of membrane has been developed, with a higher cut-off point also called a medium cut-off point, which has the capacity to eliminate higher molecular weight molecules in hemodialysis. The hemodialysis performed with these membranes has been called “Expanded Hemodialysis”.Objective: Compare the purifying efficacy of medium and high molecular weight molecules in patients dialyzed with high-flux hemodialysis, VitaPES 210HF, and with patients treated with expanded hemodialysis with the medium cut-off dialyzer, Elisio-HX.We also assessed the effect that the increased removal of inflammatory mediators by MCO hemodialysis had on fecal Calprotectin levels.Patients and methods: This is a prospective observational cross-over study in which 8 prevalent hemodialysis patients were followed for two months. Blood levels of IL-6, C-reactive protein (CRP), β2-microglobulin, Kappa and Lambda immunoglobulin light chains, and serum albumin were determined before and after each hemodialysis session.Results: The percentage of reduction of medium and higher molecular weight molecules: β2microglobulin, IL-6, Kappa and Lambda chains and CRP were higher with the Elisio-21HX dialyzer compared to the VitaPES 210HF dialyzer. There was no difference in albumin clearance between the two dialyzers.Fecal calprotectin levels were lower in patients dialyzed with Elisio-21HX.Conclusion: The medium cutoff dialyzer, Elisio-HX, is more efficient in the elimination of medium/high molecular weight molecules than the VitaPES HF high-flux dialyzer, with the same albumin elimination.Improving inflammation at the local intestinal level with lower levels of fecal Calprotectin.
  PubDate: 2024-05-13 15:17:15
Renal Lymphangiectasia: A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge
- Authors: Mourabiti L*; Allata Y1, 2, El Bardai G1, 2, Chouhani BA, Kabbali N, Sqalli Houssaini T, Bouabdallah Y, Khattala K, Alaoui O, Boubou M, Hida M, Souilmi FZ
  Abstract: Renal lymphangiectasia, a rare lymphatic disorder, manifests as cystic infiltration in the perirenal and para-pyelic space due to lymphatic drainage defects. Diagnosis hinges on imaging modalities like ultrasound, CT, and MRI. However, lack of awareness can lead to confusion with other renal cystic pathologies. Here, we present a case of renal lymphangiectasia in a child, detailing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. The patient, a 2-year-old and 2-month-old girl from a consanguineous marriage, presented with persistent abdominal distension. Clinical examination revealed growth retardation and normal blood pressure but abdominal distension with dullness. Lab investigations indicated acute renal failure with non-nephrotic proteinuria. Radiologically, renal lymphangiectasia was confirmed by ultrasound showing microcysts and perirenal cystic lesions with ascites, corroborated by MRI and CT scans. Treatment involved nephroprotective therapy and diuretics for ascites. Surgical intervention was necessitated due to cyst size and compressive nature, involving iterative punctures, marsupialization, and percutaneous drainage. Postoperatively, recurrent ascites temporarily worsened renal function but returned to baseline afterward. renal lymphangiectasia necessitates careful management due to its potential to progress to chronic renal failure. The prognosis depends on factors like initial proteinuria severity, treatment response, and complication management. Personalized approaches are pivotal in its diagnosis and management.
  PubDate: 2024-05-10 15:14:33
Renal Tuberculosis: A Case History that makes or Breaks the Case, Nothing
is more Deceptive
- Authors: Urvashi Khan*; LK Jha, Pranav Tyagi, Aditya Sharma, Rita Rani Maggon, Neha Pandey
  Abstract: This manuscript presents a compelling case of renal tuberculosis in a 15-year-old male, elucidating the intricate diagnostic hurdles and strategic management approaches encountered. The patient initially presented with nonspecific symptoms, including intermittent low-grade fever, weight loss, fatigue, and diffuse skin rashes, which were initially managed as suspected enteric fever. However, as the patient’s condition deteriorated, a comprehensive diagnostic exploration revealed renal tuberculosis. The report meticulously outlines the clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation, and therapeutic trajectory, emphasizing the enigmatic nature of symptoms and advocating for a multidimensional diagnostic paradigm integrating clinical, radiological, microbiological, and histopathological assessments.Furthermore, this case report provides a comprehensive review of urogenital tuberculosis, discussing its epidemiological underpinnings, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methodologies, and therapeutic tenets. It underscores the paramount significance of early recognition and prompt initiation of treatment in forestalling complications and optimizing patient outcomes.This case report enriches the medical discourse by shedding light on the diagnostic intricacies and therapeutic imperatives pertinent to renal tuberculosis, especially in the younger demographic. We believe that the findings will contribute significantly to the understanding and management of this disease.
  PubDate: 2024-04-29 11:45:44
Porphyria Cutanea Tarda (PCT) in a Patient, Treated with Hemodialysis
after a Kidney Transplant Rejection Reaction: A Case Report
- Authors: Radoslavas Stasilo*; Artūras Vinikovas
  Abstract: Porphyrias are a group of inherited metabolic disorders of haem biosynthesis, involving a deficiency in the enzyme uroporphyrinogen decarboxylase. In this case report we present a case of a patient with porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT). A 40-year-old man on hemodialysis after a kidney transplant rejection reaction, complaining of skin changes, with a history of smoking and alcohol intake. Treated with Fusidic acid Betamethasone cream, and erythropoietin. Porhyria cutanea tarda can be considered in a patient who complains of skin changes. History of alcohol intake, smoking, high ferritin levels, and increased hepatic markers can raise suspicion of disease. In patients with ESRD treatment with erythropoietin, SPF 50+ sun cream, Fusidic acid, and Betamethasone can be effective.
  PubDate: 2024-03-18 12:06:03
Assessment of the Quality of Life of the Caregiver of Pediatric Patients
with Chronic Kidney Disease in a Tertiary Health Care Facility
- Authors: Asma Hamoud Alruwaili*; Khaled Abdulaziz Alsaran Abdulaziz Abdullah Alshathri
  Abstract: Background: Long-term care for patients with chronic kidney disease, whether in the pre or post-dialysis period, has a destructive impact on patients and their caregivers that can significantly worsen their quality of life. Objectives: To assess the quality of life (QOL) among caregivers of children suffering from chronic kidney disease and to identify the possible factors affecting their quality of life. Subjects and methods: Between March 2023 and May 2023, a cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted at King Saud Medical City for caregivers of all pediatric patients aged from 6 months to 14 years with CKD stage-3B and beyond who have been followed up for at least three months in the pre or post-dialysis period since 2015. The study applied the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF) to evaluate the caregivers’ quality of life. Result: A total of 95 caregivers were involved in the study. The age ranged between 24 and 53 years, with an arithmetic mean of 39.3 and a standard deviation of (± 6.6) years, and almost two-thirds (65.3%) were Saudi nationals. Most pediatric patients were on peritoneal renal dialysis (41%), whereas 29.5% were on hemodialysis. The mean and SD of the overall score was 56.10 ± 17.40 out of a possible range of 0-100. Regarding its domains, the highest score was observed regarding the social domain (62.11 ± 21.12), whereas the lowest was the physical domain (49.55 ± 18.42). After controlling for confounding, married, high socio-economic, and more educated caregivers have higher QOL scores than singles, low socio-economic, and lower knowledgeable caregivers, and the three factors together were responsible for approximately 41% variability of the QOL score (r – square = 0.406). Bivariate Pearson correlation showed significant correlations among different quality-of-life domains (p < 0.001). Conclusion: There was a significant association between quality-of-life scores and demographic characteristics of chronic kidney disease caregivers; they need the highest support to cope with their delicate patients.
  PubDate: 2024-03-06 17:04:36
The Effect of Residence Time of No-tunneled Hemodialysis Catheters on
Infection and Thrombosis Outcome. Identification of CVC’s Time Cut-off
- Authors: Luciano De Paola*; Mariantonia Panzino, Laura Saturno, Maria Antonietta Mascaro, Marco Vatrano, Federica De Paola, Citraro Maria Lucia, Bova Francesca, D’Onofrio Giuseppina, Giovanni Ruotolo
  Abstract: Introduction: Permanent vascular access (arteriovenous fistula (AVF), arteriovenous graft (AVG)) is susceptible to acute events that reduce patency. The temporary central venous catheter (CVC) constitutes bridging therapy for primary vascular access dysfunction. The impact of “residence time” on the rate of dysfunction/thrombosis or infection remains to be explored.AIM: 1) To evaluate the impact of CVC residence time on outcomes (infection or Thrombosis/dysfunction) in consecutive temporary CVCs adjusted for the insertion site (upper site vs. lower site).2) To establish a cut-off resident time.Patients and methods: Seventeen prevalent hemodialysis patients with three consecutive CVCs are followed up prospectively in an observational study for a period equivalent to the permanence of the CVCs. The data is recorded at the beginning of the CVC time. The diagnosis of catheter-related bloodstream infection and thrombosis/dysfunction is made following the K-Doqi 2019 guidelines.Statistical analysis: Seventeen hemodialysis patients (51 CVCs) were included. The ‘CVC resident time’ of each individual patient ((i.e. βcoefficient (log-transformed)*AUC)) was determined using LMM and then inserted into multivariate Cox models to assess infection and dysfunction/thrombosis outcomes (Joint Models). The AUC was calculated at various baseline levels of CVC time (10th……50th percentile). The cut-off point for thrombosis in CVC time corresponds to the mean of the CVC time at the 30th percentile of all CVCs.Results: The CVC time is different for CVC’s site insertion and sequence. From the analysis of multivariate joint models, CVC resident time appears not to be significant for infection, but heterogenicity for the insertion site (ref3-4=upper site) is significant for the outcome of thrombosis/dysfunction. From the study of survival analysis, the free survival from outcomes by CVC site insertion appears to be significant for thrombosis/dysfunction. The average time of CVCs’ calculation at the 30th percentile is 14 days (cut-off).Conclusion: No tunneled hemodialysis Catheter (NTHC) residence time is considered not to be a risk factor for infection, but it represents a risk factor for lower access thrombosis. After the cut-off time of 14 days, the advantage of the higher NTHCs is lost.
  PubDate: 2024-03-04 17:01:35
Exit Site Care in Peritoneal Dialysis: Silver as a Possible Strategy'
- Authors: Paribello Giuseppe*; Papa Fortuna, Ganzerli Maria Chiara, Del Prete Chiara, Capuano Ivana, Pacella Daniela, Sannino Giuseppina, Rompianesi Gianluca, Pisani Antonio, Riccio Eleonora
  Abstract: Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a well-tolerated home renal replacement therapy for patients with end-stage renal disease. One of the critical points for the success of a PD program is the care of the peritoneal catheter and the exit site. A target for the incidence of infections/year should not exceed 0,40. The aim of the study was to observe whether our exit-site cleansing and dressing method, which involves the application of silver-releasing dressing may be associated with a reduction in the incidence of exit-site infections compared to the data reported in the literature.The data of 51 patients attending the Peritoneal Dialysis DH of the AOU Federico II in Naples in the period between July 2021 and September 2023 were analyzed.Overall, 27670 catheter days were analyzed with an average incidence of 0.23 infections/year/patient. The average incidence (0.23) is lower than the target suggested by the ISPD (0.4 infections/year/patient) and the average estimated in the USA (0.5-0.6 infections/year/patient). The average incidence from 2021 to 2023, equal to 0.23 episodes/year/patient, is therefore lower than the incidence of 2014-2015 (0.38 episodes/year/patient), a two-year period in which we did not use dressings with silver Exit-Pad.The use of Exit-Pad silver ion-releasing dressings Ag may further hinder the development of such infections by reducing the failure of peritoneal treatment and the transition to hemodialysis.
  PubDate: 2024-02-28 12:28:44
Efficiency, Effectiveness and Clinical Results of Extracorporeal Therapies
in Non-Renal Settings: How are they to be evaluated' The Case of their
Application in Liver Failure
- Authors: Fausto Bruno Campana; Mauro Atti*
  Abstract: There are various Extra Blood Purification Therapies (EBPTs) used in the context of critical care, including but not limited to Acute Kidney Injury (AKI). These therapies aim to remove toxins, inflammatory mediators, and excess fluids from the bloodstream. While some blood purification therapies were initially developed for renal support, they have been explored for use in other medical conditions as well, including liver pathologies and sepsis. Here is a brief explanation of some therapies such as MARS (Molecular Adsorbents Recirculating System), Prometheus, CPFA (Coupled Plasma Filtration Adsorption), PAP (Plasma Adsorption), and SPAD (Single-Pass Albumin Dialysis). Some of these therapies have entered clinical use, while others have faced challenges, such as negative evidence, poor purifying efficacy, or difficulties in practical use. The field of extracorporeal liver support is dynamic, with ongoing developments aimed at improving the effectiveness and practicality of these therapies. Sorbents mark the latest frontiers in blood purification to remove various toxic molecules, with specific emphasis on the modulation of bilirubin and other substances in critically ill patients suffering from liver failure. In the above-mentioned pathologies, substances may be continuously generated within the body, and Mass Balance is the only valuable tool for distinguishing between generation and removal processes. The effectiveness of sorbents in removing bilirubin and bile acids, as demonstrated in both in vitro and in vivo studies, distinguishes them and shows their superiority over traditional liver cleansing methods, such as CPFA, PAP, SPAD, Prometheus, and MARS.
  PubDate: 2024-02-20 12:28:42
Cognitive Impairment in Renal Replacement Therapy: Comparison between
Methods
- Authors: Paribello Giuseppe*; Papa Fortuna, Ganzerli Maria Chiara, Del Prete Chiara, Lanzuise Caterina, Capuano Ivana, Pacella Daniela, Sannino Giuseppina, Rompianesi Gianluca, Pisani Antonio, Riccio Eleonora
  Abstract: Cognitive impairment (CI) can be defined as a clinical syndrome characterized by a decline in at least two of several domains of cognitive function. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an independent risk factor for cognitive decline, and the prevalence in patients with end-stage renal disease is estimated at 50% - 80%. However, it appears that CI in patients on renal replacement therapy (RRT) may be underdiagnosed. In this cross-sectional study, 33 patients on Peritoneal Dialysis from the AOU Federico II were recruited, and matched by sex, age, and dialysis age to 33 patients on Hemodialysis and 33 controls belonging to healthy volunteers. The total 66 patients and their 33 controls were assessed for cognitive function using the Cognitive Reserve Index Questionnaire (CRIq) test. Between PD and HD patients, a statistically significant difference emerged in all subscores and in the total CRI. Between PD patients and controls, a statistically significant difference emerged in education, CRI- CRI-leisure time, and the total CRI. Therefore, CI may occur in patients undergoing PD earlier and with a greater frequency than in the general population, but with a lower incidence than in patients on HD. These considerations should be communicated to patients when they are educated about different replacement methods.
  PubDate: 2024-01-29 10:49:32

HOME > Browse the 73 Subjects covered by JournalTOCs
Subject	Total Journals