Clinicopathological and prognostic analysis of IgA nephropathy patients with anemia

Objective To analyze the clinicopathological features of IgA nephropathy (IgAN) patients with anemia and the influencing factors of prognosis. Methods The clinical and pathological data of patients diagnosed with primary IgAN at the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University from January 1, 2006 to December 31, 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into anemia group and non-anemia group according to whether the patient was anemia or not. The clinical and pathological data of the two groups were collected. All of them were followed up from the date of renal biopsy to January 1, 2018. Survival curves of the two groups were drawn by Kaplan-Meier method, and compared by Log-rank test. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression model was adopted to explore the influencing factors of prognosis in IgAN patients. Results A total of 231 subjects were enrolled, including 122 males (52.8%), and the male-female ratio was 1.12∶1. Their age was (34.8±10.1) years (15-68 years). There were 70 patients (30.3%) in anemia group, 161 cases (69.7%) in non-anemic group. Compared with non-anemia group, anemia group had higher proportion of females, lower serum albumin, higher proportion of tubular atrophy/interstitial fibrosis (T1/2), endothelial cell proliferation (E1) and crescent formation (C1/2), which were statistically significant (all P＜0.05). The patients had a median follow-up time as 6.3 years (0.3-12.9 years). Survival analysis showed that patients in anemia group had lower cumulative renal survival rate than that in non-anemia group ( χ2=15.234, P＜0.001). Multivariate Cox hazards regression analysis revealed that anemia (HR=3.820, 95%CI 1.674-8.719, P=0.001), tubular atrophy/interstitial fibrosis (T1/2) (HR=3.770, 95%CI 1.026-13.852, P=0.046), glomerular segmental sclerosis/adhesion (S1) (HR=4.211, 95%CI 1.139-15.576, P=0.031), hypertension (HR=2.988, 95%CI 1.276-6.999, P=0.012), increased 24 h urinary protein (HR=1.103, 95%CI 1.046-1.163, P＜0.001) and estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR)＜60 ml?min-1?(1.73 m2)-1 (HR=3.725, 95%CI 1.639-8.462, P=0.002) were the independent risk factors for poor renal prognosis in patients with IgAN. Conclusions The clinicopathological features of IgAN patients with anemia are relatively serious, and the renal cumulative survival rate is lower. Anemia, tubular atrophy/interstitial fibrosis (T1/2), glomerular segmental sclerosis/adhesion (S1), hypertension, increased urinary protein and eGFR＜60 ml?min-1?(1.73 m2)-1 are the independent risk factors for poor renal prognosis in patients with IgAN.     

The predictive value of crescents in adult Henoch-Sch?lein purpura nephritis

Objective To study the renal prognosis with the type and proportion of crescentic in adult Henoch Schonlein purpura nephritis (HSPN). Methods A total of 275 HSPN cases diagnosed in the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University were retrospectively analyzed. According to the pathological results, they were divided into four groups: 99 patients in none crescent group (NC), 35 patients in segmental crescents group (SC), 122 patients with circumferential crescent ＜25% (C1), and 19 patients with circumferential crescent≥25% (C2). Renal prognostic events were defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decreased by 30% over baseline within 2 years, doubling of serum creatinine or end-stage renal disease during follow-up. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to compare the renal survival rate of each group. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression model was used to recognize the risk factor of poor renal outcome. Results There was no significant difference in age, extra renal organ performance and mean arterial pressure among groups. Among NC group, SC group, C1 group and C2 group, difference in serum creatinine (P=0.001), eGFR (P=0.003) and proteinuria levels (P＜0.001) were statistically significant. There was no significant difference in the ratio of global sclerosis, mesangial hypercellularity and interstitial inflammation/fibrosis among the groups. The patients were followed up for 86(58, 116) months. The renal survival rates of NC group, SC group, C1 group and C2 group were 96%, 100%, 83.6% and 68.4% respectively. Kaplan-meier survival analysis showed significant differences (Log Rank=23.24, P＜0.001). Cox multivariate regression analysis indicated that presence of circumferential crescent (HR=3.59, 95%CI 1.34-9.62, P=0.008) and low eGFR (HR=0.979, 95%CI 0.968-0.989, P＜0.001) were independent prognostic factors. Conclusion The presence of circumferential crescent and low eGFR level are independent risk factors for poor renal prognosis in HSPN patients.     

Association between metabolic syndrome and prognosis in patients with peritoneal dialysis

Objective To investigate the incidence situation of metabolic syndrome (MS) in patients with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD), and analyze the correlation between MS and prognosis of patients. Methods The patients who received peritoneal dialysis from June 1, 2002 to April 30, 2018 and followed up regularly were divided into MS group and non-MS group according to the diagnostic criteria of MS. Follow-up was until July 31, 2018. The differences of clinical data, metabolic indexes and clinical outcomes between the two groups were compared. The survival rates of the two groups were compared by Kaplan-Meier survival curve, and the risk factors of all-cause death and cardiovascular disease (CVD) death were analyzed by Cox regression analysis. Results A total of 516 patients with CAPD were enrolled in this study, including 340 males (65.9%) and 176 females (34.1%). Their age was (47.29±12.20) years. The median follow-up time was 20 (9, 39) months. According to the diagnostic criteria of MS, the patients were divided into MS group (210 cases, 40.7%) and non-MS group (306 cases, 59.3%). At baseline, there was no significant difference in age, educational background, duration of peritoneal dialysis, smoking history and drinking history between the two groups (P＞0.05), but the patients in MS group were more exposed to high glucose peritoneal dialysate (P＜0.05). The body mass index (BMI), blood phosphorus, blood glucose, blood potassium, triglyceride, cholesterol and systolic blood pressure in MS group were significantly higher than those in non-MS group (all P＜0.05), and HDL-C level was significantly lower in MS group than in non-MS group (P＜0.05). There were no significant differences in other indicators between the two groups (P＞0.05). Kaplan-Meier survival curve showed that the cumulative survival rate in MS group was significantly lower than that in non-MS group, and the difference was statistically significant (Log-rank χ2=14.87, P＜0.001). If CVD death was taken as the end event, the cumulative survival rate in the non-MS group was significantly higher than that in the MS group (Log-rank χ2=14.49, P＜0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that MS and high 4 h dialysate creatinine/serum creatinine ratio (4hD/Pcr) were independent risk factor for all-cause death (HR=1.982, 95%CI 1.240-3.168, P=0.004; HR=3.855, 95%CI 1.306-11.381, P=0.015) and CVD death (HR=2.499, 95%CI 1.444-4.324, P=0.001; HR=5.799, 95%CI 1.658-20.278, P=0.006) in patients with CAPD. Conclusion The prevalence of MS in patients with CAPD is high, and MS and high 4hD/Pcr are independent risk factor for all-cause and CVD death in CAPD patients. They can be used as valuable indicators to predict the treatment outcomes and long-term prognosis of patients with CAPD.     

Effects of different vascular access types on new atrial fibrillation in maintenance hemodialysis patients： a prospective cohort study

Objective To investigate the effects and related risk factors of different vascular access types on new atrial fibrillation in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients. Methods This was a single-center prospective cohort study. Patients who established long-term dialysis access and were voluntarily followed up in the Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University from January 1, 2013 to June 30, 2013 were enrolled to follow-up for 5 years. Patients were divided into fistula group (patients with autogenous arteriovenous fistula) and catheter group (patients with tunneled cuffed internal jugular vein catheter). The incidences of new atrial fibrillation in the two groups were compared by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Cox regression analysis and receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC) were used to assess the risk factors of new atrial fibrillation. Results A total of 315 eligible patients were enrolled, including 150 males (47.62%). There were 189 patients (60.00%) in the fistula group, and 126 patients (40.00%) in the catheter group. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that older age (HR=1.021, 95%CI 1.003-1.040), arteriovenous fistula (HR=1.899, 95%CI 1.019-3.539), increased dialysis blood flow (HR=1.030, 95%CI 1.010-1.051) and left atrial diameter (HR=1.097, 95%CI 1.022-1.177) were independent risk factors for new atrial fibrillation in MHD patients (all P＜0.05). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that the incidence of new atrial fibrillation in fistula group was higher than that in catheter group (Log-rank χ2=9.53,P=0.002). ROC curve analysis showed that age [the area under the curve (AUC)=0.608, P=0.008], arteriovenous fistula (AUC=0.594, P=0.021), dialysis blood flow (AUC=0.659, P＜0.001) and left atrial diameter (AUC=0.604, P=0.011) could predict the occurrence of new atrial fibrillation. Conclusions Older age, arteriovenous fistula, increased blood flow during dialysis and left atrial diameter are independent risk factors for new atrial fibrillation in MHD patients, which can predict the occurrence of atrial fibrillation. The incidence of new atrial fibrillation in patients with arteriovenous fistula is higher than that in patients with catheter.     

Risk factor analysis of pneumonia in maintenance hemodialysis patients

Objective To investigate the risk factors of pneumonia in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients. Methods The clinical data of patients undergoing dialysis longer than three months at the Hemodialysis Center of West China Hospital of Sichuan University from July 2013 to July 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into pneumonia group and non- pneumonia group. Follow-up time started from admission to the beginning of hemodialysis. All patients were followed until the patient died, or withdrawn from hemodialysis, or transferred to another center, or until the study deadline (April 2019). Baseline clinical data were compared between the two groups, and the differences in clinical data between the pneumonia group and the baseline were also analyzed. Risk factors for pneumonia in hemodialysis patients was analyzed by binary logistic regression. Kaplan-Meier curve was used to compare the survival prognosis of the two groups, and the Log-rank method was used for significant test. A multivariate Cox proportional hazard model was used to analyze risk factors for MHD patients' death. Results (1) A total of 311 patients were enrolled in the study, in which 178 (57.2%) of the patients were male, and 75(24.1%) of the patients had pneumonia. Compared with non-pneumonia group, the pneumonia group patients were older (P=0.002), had higher level of white blood cells (P=0.001) and lower level of serum creatinine (P=0.003), albumin (P=0.001), and serum magnesium (P=0.039). There were also statistically significant differences between the two groups in the proportion of females and underlying diseases (all P＜0.05). (2) The time of pneumonia occurred from the initial time of dialysis was (10.69±9.82) months. Compared with baseline values, decreased hemoglobin and albumin level were found (both P＜0.01). (3) Logistic regression analysis showed male patients had lower risk of pneumonia than female patients (OR=0.438, 95%CI 0.242-0.795, P=0.007). For every 1 g/L increase in albumin, the risk of pneumonia was reduced by 6.4% (OR=0.936, 95%CI 0.885-0.991, P=0.022). Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis showed that the difference in 5-year cumulative survival rate between pneumonia group and non-pneumonia group was statistically significant ( 60.6% vs 84.4%, χ2=16.647, P＜0.001). (4) Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that long dialysis time (HR=0.870, 95%CI 0.832-0.909, P＜0.001) and high serum albumin level (HR=0.898, 95%CI 0.845-0.955, P=0.001) were protective factors in patients with MHD. Pneumonia (HR=3.008, 95%CI 1.423-6.359, P=0.004) was an independent risk factor for death in MHD patients. Conclusions Hemoglobin and albumin level are reduced in MHD patients with pneumonia. Low albumin level is a risk factor for pneumonia in patients. MHD patients with pneumonia have a lower survival time than those without pneumonia.     

Effects of abdominal aortic calcification progression on outcomes in maintenance hemodialysis patients

Objective To investigate the effects of abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) progression on outcomes in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients. Methods Patients who were on MHD between Jun. 2014 and Oct. 2014 in the dialysis center of the Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University and finished the AAC examination at baseline and two years later were included prospectively. The progression of AAC by AAC score (AACs) at baseline and two years later was evaluated. According to the change of AACs, the patients were divided into rapid AAC progression group and non-rapid AAC progression group. The effect of AAC progression on outcomes in MHD patients in the follow-up period was investigated. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to compare their survival rates. Multivariable Cox regression model was used to determine the risk factors of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality and cardiovascular events. Results A total of 111 MHD patients were included, including 51 males and 60 females, aged (52.24±12.69) years. Baseline AAC prevalence was 45.9% (51/111), and median AACs was 0 (0, 5); After 2 years, the prevalence of AAC was 78.4% (87/111), and the median AACs was 6 (2, 11). There were 54 cases in the AAC rapid progression group (AACs change value＞2) and 57 cases in the non-rapid AAC progression group (AACs change value≤2). The median follow-up duration was 27.9(27.1, 28.0) months. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that patients in rapid AAC progression group had a higher risk of mortality as compared to patients in non-rapid AAC progression group (Log-rank χ2=5.695, P=0.017). Multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that high baseline AACs (HR=1.135, 95%CI 1.001-1.286, P=0.048), hypoalbuminemia (HR=0.789, 95%CI 0.640-0.972, P=0.026) were independent risk factors for all-cause mortality in MHD patients. High baseline AACs (HR=1.187, 95%CI 1.038-1.356, P=0.012), low spKt/V (HR=0.103, 95%CI 0.013-0.801, P=0.030) were independent risk factors for cardiovascular mortality in MHD patients. Low spKt/V (HR=0.018, 95%CI 0.003-0.115, P＜0.001), hypoalbuminemia (HR=0.736, 95%CI 0.608-0.890, P=0.002) were independent risk factors for cardiovascular events in MHD patients. Conclusions Abdominal aortic calcification progression may increase the risk of cardiovascular events and death in MHD patients. Severity of AAC, adequacy of dialysis, and nutritional status are predictors of outcomes in MHD patients.     

Comparative analysis of clinico-pathological characteristics and outcomes in malignant hypertension patients with and without primary glomerular diseases

Objective To investigate the clinico-pathological characteristics, outcomes and their predictors in malignant hypertension related kidney injury with and without primary glomerular diseases. Methods Patients with clinical diagnosis of malignant hypertension, biopsy-proven kidney injury caused by malignant hypertension and complete clinical data from January 2010 to December 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. According to clinical and renal pathology, patients were divided into malignant hypertension related kidney injury without primary nephropathy group and with primary nephropathy group. Clinico-pathological characteristics and outcomes were evaluated and compared between malignant hypertension related kidney injury with and without primary glomerular diseases. Results Totally 31 biopsy-proven kidney injury patients were analyzed. Among them, there were 18 cases with primary glomerular diseases and 13 cases without primary glomerular diseases, with age of (32.5±6.5) years old and (34.7±8.1) years old, respectively. There were 12 males in both group. The proportion of primary IgA nephropathy was higher (16/18) in the group of malignant hypertension related kidney injury with primary glomerular diseases. Malignant hypertension with primary glomerular diseases patients had lower plasma albunin level [(32.7±6.4) g/L vs (38.5±7.3) g/L, P=0.027], higher 24-hour proteinuria level [(4.03±2.71) g vs (1.45±0.98) g, P=0.002] and higher incidence rates of dysmorphic hematuria (14/18 vs 0, P=0.001) than those without primary glomerular diseases patients. Glomerular sclerosis, mesangial proliferation, tubular atrophy and interstitial fibrosis were more severe in malignant hypertension with primary glomerular diseases patients (all P＜0.05), but the ischemic wrinkling of glomerular capillary was more severe in malignant hypertension without primary glomerular diseases (P＜0.01). There were no differences of acute or chronic malignant hypertensive injury in small artery and in afferent arterioles between the two groups. Cox regression analysis showed that loss of brush-border with flattening of tubular epithelium was the predictor for renal partial recovery (HR=5.956, 95%CI 1.198-29.614, P=0.029). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that malignant hypertension patients with primary glomerular diseases had shorter renal survival time than those without primary glomerular diseases [(24.1±9.3) months vs (56.6±12.4) months], and accumulative renal survival rate of malignant hypertension patients with primary glomerular diseases was lower than that without primary glomerular diseases (11.6% vs 53.3%, Log-rank χ2=5.022, P=0.025). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that severe tubular atrophy and interstitial fibrosis were independent risk factors for end-stage renal disease in malignant hypertension patients (HR=5.870, 95%CI 1.372-25.112, P=0.017). Conclusions Malignant hypertension with primary glomerular diseases patients have more severe clinico-pathological renal impairment and poorer prognosis of long-term renal survival than those without primary glomerular diseases. Acute renal tubular injury (loss of brush-border with flattening of tubular epithelium) is the only predictor of renal function improvement in patients with malignant hypertension and renal impairment within one year. Tubular atrophy/interstitial fibrosis is a risk factor for end-stage renal disease in patients with malignant hypertension. Renal biopsy is an indispensable tool for predicting short-term and long-term renal outcomes.     

Prognostic analysis of aged end-stage renal disease patients receiving hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis

Objective To compare the survival rates of elderly hemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients and identify their independent prognostic predictors. Methods Patients aging ＞60 years old who initiated dialysis between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2014 were included. Propensity score method (PSM) was applied to adjust for selection bias. Kaplan-Meier method was used to obtain survival curves and a Cox regression model was used to evaluate risk factors for mortality. Results 447 eligible patients with maintenance dialysis were identified, 236 with hemodialysis and 211 with peritoneal dialysis. 174 pairs of patients were matched, with the baseline data [age, gender, Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) and the primary disease] between two groups showing no significant difference (P＞0.05). Cardiovascular events, cerebrovascular events and infection were major causes of death in both groups and there was no significant difference in the causes of death between two groups (P＞0.05). The overall survival rates at 1 and 5 year were 93.6% and 63.4% respectively in HD group, 91.9% and 61.5% in PD group. The differences of total survival rates between HD and PD patients were not significant (P＞0.05). Cox regression analysis showed age(≥80 year) (P＜0.001, HR=1.058, 95%CI 1.028-1.088), diabetic nephropathy (P=0.001, HR=2.161, 95%CI 1.384-3.373), CCI≥5 (P=0.007, HR=1.935, 95%CI 1.201-3.117) were independent prognostic risk predictors in HD patients; age(≥80 year) (P=0.022, HR=1.043, 95%CI 1.006-1.081), serum albumin level ＜ 35 g/L (P=0.025, HR=1.776, 95%CI 1.075-2.934), and prealbumin (P=0.012, HR=0.968, 95%CI 0.944-0.993) were independent prognostic predictors in PD patients. Conclusions The differences of total survival rates between aged HD and PD patients are not significant. Age, diabetic nephropathy, CCI≥5 and age, serum albumin＜35 g/L, prealbumin＞30 g/L respectively influence the survival of elderly HD and PD patients.     

Relationship between coronary artery calcification and outcomes in maintenance hemodialysis patients

Objective To evaluate the relationship between coronary artery calcification (CAC) and outcomes in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients. Methods Eighty-six patients who were on MHD between October 2014 and May 2015 in the blood purification center of our hospital were enrolled prospectively. CAC was measured and scored by multiple slice computed tomography (MSCT). According to the CAC score (CACs), the patients were divided into mild CAC (CACs＜100) group and severe CAC (CACs≥100) group. Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed to analyze the survival rates of the two groups, and a COX proportional hazards regression model was used to estimate the risk factors of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease mortality in MHD patients. Results Severe CAC (CACs≥100) was present in 62.8% (54/86) patients. The median of follow-up duration was 28.9(23.8, 29.4) months. During the follow up, 2(6.3%) patients in CACs＜100 group and 18 (33.3%) patients in CACs≥100 group died. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated that patients in CACs≥100 group had higher all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality as compared with patients in CACs＜100 group (P=0.007, P=0.030). Multivariate COX regression analysis demonstrated that CACs≥100 (HR=7.687, 95%CI 1.697-34.819, P=0.008) and low single-pool Kt/V (HR=0.092, 95%CI 0.020-0.421, P=0.002) were independent risk factors for all-cause mortality. Old age (HR=1.192, 95%CI 1.100-1.291, P＜0.001), short duration of dialysis (HR=0.598, 95%CI 0.445-0.804, P=0.001), low 25-hydroxy vitamin D3 (HR=0.461, 95%CI 0.326-0.630, P＜0.001), and low total cholesterol (HR=0.405, 95%CI 0.213-0.772, P=0.006) were independent risk factors for cardiovascular disease mortality. Conclusions The CACs is significantly related with overall survival in MHD patients. Large multicenter prospective studies are to be evaluated the association between CACs and long-term survival in MHD patients.     

自体动静脉内瘘使用寿命的影响因素

目的分析自体动静脉内瘘(arteriovenous fistula,AVF)使用的相关因素,为延长血液透析患者AVF使用寿命提供理论依据。方法采用回顾性调查研究,选取2004年10月至2017年6月在南昌大学第一附属医院行AVF手术并使用其进行维持性血液透析(maintenance hemodialysis,MHD)的患者为研究对象,探讨AVF使用寿命的影响因素。通过问卷调查、查阅医院病历系统和血液透析记录单等方式,记录患者的一般资料、透析资料和实验室指标。根据内瘘功能状态将患者分为失功组及通畅组,对比两组资料之间的差异。采用多因素Cox比例风险回归模型分析AVF使用寿命的影响因素,Kaplan-Meier方法绘制生存曲线。结果共纳入研究对象187例,内瘘失功组47例,通畅组140例,两组患者在糖尿病占比、血浆白蛋白水平、尿酸水平、甲状旁腺素(parathyroid hormone,PTH)水平之间的差异均有统计学意义(均P<0.05)。多因素Cox比例风险回归分析结果显示,糖尿病(HR=9.348,95%CI 3.507~24.918,P<0.001)和低白蛋白血症(HR=12.650,95%CI 2.925~54.714,P=0.001)是AVF使用寿命短的危险因素。Kaplan-Meier分析结果显示,合并糖尿病MHD患者AVF使用寿命明显短于未合并糖尿病的MHD患者(Log-rankχ2=13.191,P<0.001);低白蛋白血症的MHD患者AVF使用寿命明显短于无低白蛋白血症的MHD患者(Log-rankχ2=13.591,P<0.001)。结论糖尿病及低白蛋白血症是AVF使用寿命短的危险因素,应积极制定干预方案,延长AVF的使用寿命。     

Effects of timing of dialysis initiation on the prognosis of peritoneal dialysis patients: a retrospective cohort study

Objective To analyze the effects of dialysis therapy initiation on the prognosis of peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Methods PD patients who were newly catheterization and long-term followed-up in Peking University Shenzhen Hospital from January 1, 2012 to March 25, 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. According to the estimate glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at the time of patients catheterization, the patients were divided into early-dialysis group [eGFR＞5.5 ml?min-1?(1.73 m2)-1] and late-dialysis group [eGFR≤5.5 ml?min-1?(1.73 m2)-1]. The endpoint events were transferred to other renal replacement therapy (such as hemodialysis, kidney transplantation) or death. Kaplan-Meier method was used to draw survival curve, and log-rank test was used to compare the difference of survival rate between the two groups. Cox proportional hazard model was used to analyze the influencing factors of all-cause death and technical death in PD patients. Results A total of 342 PD patients were enrolled in this study, and there were 165 cases and 177 cases in the early-dialysis and the late-dialysis group respectively. Compared with the early-dialysis group, the proportion of patients with diabetes and men, and the level of hemoglobin, serum calcium and CO2 binding capacity in the late-dialysis group were lower, while the incidence of hypertension, serum phosphorus, blood uric acid and blood urea nitrogen level were higher in the late-dialysis group (all P＜0.05). The median follow-up time was 33(16, 57) months. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that the cumulative survival rate of late-dialysis group was significantly higher than that of early-dialysis group (Log-rank χ2=12.004, P＜0.001). After adjusting for gender, age of catheterization, body mass index (BMI), diabetes mellitus and hypertension, the risk ratio of all-cause death in the early-dialysis group was 1.950 times higher than that in the late-dialysis group (HR=1.950, 95%CI 1.019-3.730, P=0.044). Subgroup analysis showed that the timing of dialysis and the risk of end-point events were not affected by BMI, diabetes stratification and other factors (interactive P＞0.05), but there was interaction between dialysis time and catheter age (interactive P＜0.05). According to the age of catheterization, the risk of all-cause death were higher in the early dialysis group at a young age (≤48 years old) (HR=21.287, 95%CI 2.609-173.665, P=0.004). Conclusions The mortality rate of PD patients is higher in early-dialysis group, which is independent of gender, age, BMI, diabetes and hypertension. The difference is more distinct in low age group.     

肾小球IgG4沉积与原发性膜性肾病临床及病理的关系

目的分析原发性膜性肾病肾小球免疫荧光IgG4亚型分布特点,探讨IgG4阳性强度与肾脏病理、临床表现及预后的关系。方法回顾分析2015年9月至2017年4月本院行原位肾活检、免疫荧光显示毛细血管袢上有IgG沉积且至少一个IgG亚型阳性强度1+及以上的原发性膜性肾病病例,分析肾小球IgG4亚型分布特点,探讨IgG4阳性强度与临床表现、病理指标及临床缓解的关系。结果共纳入250例患者,其中男性157例(62.8%),女性93例(37.2%),年龄(54.4±14.6)岁;IgG4阴性组40例,IgG4阳性组210例;IgG4阳性组根据IgG4阳性程度又分为弱阳性组(1+,114例)、中度阳性组(2+,62例)、强阳性组(3+、4+,34例)。IgG4阳性组24 h尿蛋白量、肾组织磷脂酶A2受体染色强阳性比例均高于IgG4阴性组(均P<0.05);IgG4强阳性组血白蛋白水平低于IgG4弱阳性组(P<0.05),且随着IgG4的阳性程度增高,IgG1的阳性强度也增高,IgG4强阳性组IgG1强阳性比例明显高于IgG4弱阳性组(P<0.05);各组肾小球硬化比例、肾小管萎缩程度、IgG2、IgG3及其余免疫荧光指标组间比较差异均无统计学意义。中位随访180(122,209)d,32例患者失访,余218例患者中,45例(20.6%)完全缓解,104例(47.7%)部分缓解,69例(31.7%)未缓解。以未缓解定义为结局事件,多因素Cox回归分析显示,肾组织IgG4高阳性强度(HR=1.371,95%CI 1.068~1.759,P=0.013)、男性(HR=1.818,95%CI 1.028~3.214,P=0.040)、初始24 h尿蛋白量大(HR=1.108,95%CI 1.003~1.225,P=0.043)是疾病缓解的独立危险因素。结论肾小球IgG4阳性与否及阳性程度与原发性膜性肾病的疾病严重程度相关,肾小球IgG4阳性程度可能成为原发性膜性肾病治疗反应的指标之一。     

The risk factors of mortality in peritoneal dialysis patients in different periods

Objective To explore the risk factors and characteristics in patients with peritoneal dialysis who died in different periods. Methods The clinical data of new peritoneal dialysis patients in the Department of Nephrology and Peritoneal Dialysis Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University from November 1, 2005 to February 28, 2017 was retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into two groups according to the time of death: those who died within one year and died after one year. The risk factors of mortality between the two groups were analyzed by Cox regression model. Results A total of 997 patients were enrolled and 244 patients died. There were 69 patients (28.3%) died within one year and 175 patients (71.7%) died after one year. Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease was the dominating reason of death in both groups, accounting for 59.4% (died within one year group) and 51.4% (died after one year group) respectively. Cox regression analysis showed that for died within one year group, old age (HR=1.035, 95%CI: 1.016-1.055, P＜0.001), low blood total calcium (HR=0.167, 95%CI: 0.053-0.529, P=0.002), low albumin (HR=0.899, 95%CI: 0.856-0.943, P＜0.001) and low apolipoprotein A1 (HR=0.274, 95%CI: 0.095-0.789, P=0.016) were risk factors associated with mortality. However, for died after one year group, old age (HR=1.053, 95%CI: 1.038-1.069, P＜0.001), combined with diabetes (HR=2.181, 95%CI: 1.445-3.291, P＜0.001) and hypertriglyceride (HR=1.204, 95%CI: 1.065-1.362, P=0.003) were risk factors associated with mortality. Conclusions The risk factors of mortality for peritoneal dialysis patients of different periods were not exactly the same. For died within one year patients, old age, low blood total calcium, low albumin and low apolipoprotein A1 were independent risk factors for mortality.However, for died after one year patients, old age, combined with diabetes, and high triglycerides were independent risk factors for mortality.     

Prognostic analysis of end-stage renal disease patients without diabetes mellitus receiving hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis

Objective To compare the prognosis of hemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients without diabetes mellitus and identify related influencing factors. Methods Patients who started hemodialysis with an arteriovenous graft or fistula or PD in the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from January 1, 2013 to February 1, 2019 were included. They were followed up until May 1, 2019. The patients were divided into HD group and PD group according to the initial dialysis modality. Kaplan-Meier method was used to obtain survival curves, the Cox regression model was used to evaluate influence factors for survival rates, and the inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) was used to eliminate influence of the confounders in the groups. Results There were 371 patients with maintenance dialysis enrolled in this study, including 113 cases (30.5%) in HD group and 258 cases (69.5%) in PD group. At baseline, the scores of standard mean difference (SMD) in age, body mass index (BMI), combined with cerebrovascular disease, Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), blood potassium, plasma albumin and hemoglobin between the two groups were greater than 0.1. The score of SMD decreased after IPTW, and the most data were less than 0.1, which meant that the balance had been reached between the two groups. The Kaplan-Meier survival curve showed that the cumulative survival rates had no significant difference for all-cause death before using IPTW between the two groups (Log-rank χ2=0.094, P=0.759). After adjusting for confounders with IPTW, the Kaplan-Meier survival curve showed that the cumulative survival rates still had no significant difference for all-cause death between the two groups (Log-rank χ2=2.090, P=0.150). Univariate Cox regression analysis showed that there was no significant difference between HD and PD on survival rates in ESRD patients without diabetes mellitus for all-cause death (PD/HD, HR=1.171, 95%CI 0.426-3.223, P=0.760). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that there was no significant difference between HD and PD on survival rates in ESRD patients without diabetes mellitus (PD/HD, HR=1.460, 95%CI 0.515-4.144, P=0.477), and high plasma albumin (HR=0.893, 95%CI 0.813-0.981, P=0.019) was an independent protective factor for survival in ESRD patients without diabetes mellitus. There was still no significant difference between HD and PD on survival rates in ESRD patients without diabetes mellitus after using IPTW (PD/HD, HR=1.842, 95%CI 0.514-6.604, P=0.348). Conclusion The difference of cumulative survival rates between HD and PD is not significant in ESRD patients without diabetes mellitus.     

Serum phosphorus variation is associated with mortality in maintenance hemodialysis patients

Objective To investigate the relationship between serum phosphorus variability and mortality in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients. Methods A total of 502 MHD cases from Renji hospital hemodialysis center were registered in Shanghai Registry Network from January 2007 to April 2015. They were recruited with general information, laboratory results and outcomes. According to their median of coefficient of variation (CV) of blood phosphorus, the patients were divided into high variation group (CV≥0.226 mmol/L) and low variation group (CV＜0.226 mmol/L). The relationship of serum phosphorus CV with all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease mortality was assessed respectively. Results The average age was (63.9±14.6) years, the median dialysis age was 82.0 (43.0, 139.0) months, 118 patients (23.5%) died for all cause and 64 patients (12.7%) died for cardiovascular disease. Compared with patients in low phosphorus variation group, patients had a higher all-cause mortality in high phosphorus variation group (27.7% vs 19.3%, P=0.028). Higher cardiovascular disease mortality was observed in high variation group as well, but this difference was no statistical significant (15.4% vs 10.0%, P=0.082). COX regression analysis showed that ＞60 years of age (HR=2.762, 95%CI 1.707-4.468, P＜0.001), low hemoglobin (HR=0.466, 95%CI 0.317-0.686, P＜0.001), low albumin (HR=0.555, 95%CI 0.366-0.840, P=0.005), high CV of phosphorus (HR=1.479, 95%CI 1.023-2.139, P=0.037) were independent risk factors for all-cause mortality. Moreover, ＞60 years of age (HR=2.666, 95%CI 1.469-4.837, P=0.001), low hemoglobin (HR=0.480, 95%CI 0.238-0.801, P=0.005), and high CV of phosphorus (HR=1.655, 95%CI 1.003-2.729, P=0.049) were independent risk factors for cardiovascular disease mortality. There was no significant statistical difference between patients phosphorus on target and patients phosphorus below target in all-cause disease mortality (P=0.065) and cardiovascular disease mortality (P=0.425). High variation group whose phosphorus on target had higher all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease mortality than those in low variation group (29.2% vs 16.9%, P=0.047; 15.0% vs 6.0%, P=0.033). Kaplan-Meier method showed that patients with high phosphorus variation had higher all-cause (P=0.023) and cardiovascular disease mortality (P=0.047) than patients with low phosphorus variation. Conclusions The high CV of phosphorus is independently correlated with all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality. Patients with standard-reaching phosphorus in the low variation group have a lower mortality. A serum phosphorus level sustainably reaching the standard may improve the survival in MHD patients.     

透析开始残余肾功能与维持性透析患者预后的关系

目的 评估终末期肾病患者透析开始残余肾功能与维持性透析预后的关系.方法 收集2005年1月1日至2009年9年30日新进入血透或腹透治疗的终末期肾病成年患者资料,随访至2010年3月31日.根据透析开始时估算肾小球滤过率(eGFR)分为≥10.5、8～＜10.5、6～＜8、＜6 ml· min-1·(1.73 m2)-1 4组.eGFR评估采用MDRD简化公式.终点事件为全因死亡和心脑血管死亡.结果 (1)共562例患者入选,透析开始中位eGFR为5.60(2.26～12.62) ml· min-1·(1.73 m2)-1;中位随访时间为17(0～58)个月 ;死亡141例,中位生存期为45.48(43.05 ～47.90)个月.随着透析开始eGFR下降,4组患者Scr、BUN、血尿酸(SUA)、血前白蛋白、血磷、血钙磷乘积、整段甲状旁腺激素(iPTH)、平均动脉压(MAP)逐渐升高 ;血红蛋白(Hb)、男性患者比例、并发糖尿病比例、Charison并发症指数≥5比例逐渐下降,差异均有统计学意义(均P＜ 0.05).随着透析开始eGFR下降,并发左室肥大比例有逐渐升高趋势,但差异无统计学意义.(2)Kaplan-Meier生存曲线显示4组患者总体生存率差异无统计学意义.Cox回归分析显示透析开始eGFR与透析预后无显著关系.对透析非早期(＞3个月)死亡患者进行Kaplan-Meier生存曲线分析,4组患者1年生存率差异无统计学意义.多因素Cox回归分析显示透析开始eGFR是透析1年生存预后的保护因素(HR =0.791,95％CI 0.669～0.935,P＜0.01).(3)以心脑血管死亡为终点事件,多因素Cox回归分析显示,透析开始eGFR是心脑血管生存预后(HR =0.868,95％CI 0.777～0.971,P＜0.05)和1年心脑血管生存预后(HR=0.937,95％CI 0.851～0.992,P＜0.05)的保护因素.(4)多因素Cox回归分析显示,透析开始eGFR增高1 ml·min-1·(1.73 m2)-1,腹膜透析患者死亡风险下降10％(HR=0.90,95％CI 0.81～0.99,P＜ 0.05).血液透析方式4组患者Kaplan-Meier生存率分析显示,差异有统计学意义(Log-rank检验,P=0.047),8～＜10.5组生存率最低,与6～＜8组、＜6组差异有统计学意义(Log-rank检验,P=0.033,P=0.005).多因素Cox回归分析并未显示透析开始eGFR与预后相关.多因素Cox回归分析提示透析开始eGFR增高1 ml·min-1·(1.73 m2)-1,慢性肾小球肾炎患者和慢性肾小球肾炎腹膜透析患者死亡风险分别降低16.6％(HR=0.834,95％CI 0.736～0.946,P＜0.01)和32.1％(HR=0.679,95％CI 0.535～0.862,P＜0.01).以心脑血管死亡为终点,多因素Cox回归分析显示透析开始eGFR增高1 ml·min-1·(1.73 m2)-1,慢性肾小球肾炎患者心脑血管死亡风险下降18.2％(HR=0.818,95％CI 0.669～0.999,P＜0.05).结论 本组患者透析时机明显晚于国际透析指南的标准.随着透析开始eGFR降低,并发症增多及程度加重.早期透析可能无法提高透析患者的总体生存率,但可能有助于改善患者心脑血管及1年总体生存预后和腹膜透析、慢性肾小球肾炎患者的预后.     

Clinico-pathological features and renal outcomes of primary IgA nephropathy with IgM deposition

Objective To investigate the clinico-pathological features and renal outcomes of primary IgA nephropathy (IgAN) with glomerular IgM deposition. Methods Primary IgAN diagnosed with biopsy from January 2006 to December 2011 were recruited. Patients were divided into groups according to IgM deposition (Group A) and without IgM deposition (Group B). In addition, Group A was subdivided into two groups based on the position of IgM deposits as the mesangium (Group A1) and both mesangium and capillary wall (Group A2). Renal outcomes were defined as end stage renal disease (ESRD) and/or the doubling of baseline serum creatinine. Clinico-pathological features were retrospectively compared. Kaplan-Meier was conducted for renal outcomes, and Cox regression model was used to analyze the prognostic value of IgM deposition and the position of IgM deposition in the progression of nephropathy in IgAN patients. Results 939 patients were enrolled with 422 (44.9%) having IgM deposition (Group A). Of the 422 patients, 382 patients were divided as Group A1, whereas 40 patients were noted as Group A2. Compared to Group B, hemoglobin, serum protein, albumin and serum IgG levels in group A were significantly lower, and the cholesterol and serum IgM levels were significantly higher (all P＜0.05). There was no significant difference in serum creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), urinary protein, blood pressure and uric acid between group A and B. In terms of pathological manifestations, patients in Group A exhibited more severe histological lesions including glomerular sclerosis, S1, M1 and interstitial inflammatory cell infiltration (all P＜0.05). Immunofluorescence showed that the proportion of IgG, C1q and Fg deposition in group A was significantly higher than that in group B (all P＜0.05). By Kaplan-Meier, cumulative renal survival rate has no significant difference between Group A and B (Log-rank test χ2=0.019, P=0.891). Univariate and multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that IgM deposition had no significant effect on the renal progression in IgAN patients. Subgroup analysis showed that patients in Group A2 exhibited higher urine protein, creatinine and blood pressure, and lower eGFR and serum albumin, also had worse histological lesions including M1, E1 and T1-2 of Oxford classification (all P＜0.05), Immunofluorescence showed that the proportion of IgG, C1q and Fg deposition in group A2 was significantly higher than that in group A1 (all P＜0.05). By Kaplan-Meier, renal survival rates calculated from outcomes were lower in Group A2 (Log-rank test χ2=18.207, P＜0.001). In addition, IgM deposited both in the mesangium and capillary wall was a risk factor for renal progression of IgAN patients with IgM deposition by a univariate Cox hazards regression mode and multivariable-adjusted Cox models (HR=3.621, 95%CI 1.924-6.814, P＜0.001; HR=2.309, 95%CI 1.176-4.533, P=0.015 respectively). Conclusions The IgAN patients with IgM deposition relatively had more severe clinico-pathological changes, especially those with IgM deposited both in the mesangium and capillary wall. In this study, IgM deposition was not found to be an independent risk factor for the prognosis of kidney in IgAN patients. However, IgM deposited both in the mesangium and capillary wall was an independent risk factor for renal prognosis in IgAN patients with IgM deposition.     

Prognosis and risk factors of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis patients on maintaining dialysis

Objective To analyze the prognosis and risk factors for antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV) patients on maintaining dialysis. Methods AAV patients on maintaining peritoneal dialysis (PD) or hemodialysis (HD) in First Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University from June 2007 to June 2015 were included, and were followed up until death, kidney transplant, changed dialysis modalities or January 31, 2016. Patients were divided into PD group and HD group for comparison. Their survival rates and risk factors were analyzed by Kaplan-Meier analysis and COX regression model respectively. Results A total of 123 cases were chosen, with a median duration of dialysis for 854 (388, 1573) days, and with 88 cases (71.5%) on HD and 35 cases (28.5%) on PD. Fifty-two patients (42.3%) were more than 65 years old. At the median follow-up time of 36 months, 39 patients (31.7%) died. The main causes of death were cardiovascular events (30.8%) and infection (23.1%). COX regression analysis showed that patients older than 65 years old (HR=3.289, P=0.001), with cardiovascular disease (HR=3.241, P=0.003) and interstitial pneumonia (HR=2.173, P=0.048) at the dialysis onset were independent risk factors affecting survival. Conclusions Factors including age (older than 65 years), pre-dialysis cardiovascular disease and interstitial pneumonia were independent risk factors affecting survival of AAV patients on maintaining dialysis, then infections and cardiovascular events were the main causes of death.     

Risk factors for mortality in diabetic peritoneal dialysis patients

Objective To investigate the risk factors of all-cause mortality in diabetic patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD). Methods As a single-center retrospective cohort study, all incident PD patients who were catheterized at the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University between November 1, 2005 and February 28, 2017 were included. Patients were divided into diabetes mellitus group (DM group) and non-diabetes mellitus group (NDM group). Outcomes were analyzed by Kaplan-Meier method. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were utilized to assess the risk factors of all-cause mortality. Results A total of 977 patients were enrolled. Compared with NDM group, patients in DM group were older (47.5±14.4 vs 59.3±11.3, P＜0.01), had more cardiovascular disease (CVD) (7.5% vs 20.3%, P＜0.01), higher levels of serum hemoglobin (78.2±17.2 vs 82.3±14.6 g/L, P＜0.01) , and lower levels of serum albumin (36.1±5.0 vs 32.7±5.6 g/L, P＜0.01). The one-, three- and five-year patient survival rates of DM and NDM group were 89.7%, 56.0%, 31.9% and 94.7%, 81.3%, 67.4%, respectively.Survival rate was significantly lower in DM group than in NDM group ( χ2=63.51, P＜0.01). Stratified analysis showed that DM group had significant lower survival rate than NDM group in patients younger than 70 years old ( χ2= 73.35, P＜0.01), while survival rate was similar between the two groups patients older than 70 years old ( χ2= 0.003, P=0.96). Multivariate Cox proportional hazards model analysis showed that DM (HR: 1.74, 95%CI: 1.27-2.38, P＜0.01), age (HR: 1.05, 95%CI: 1.04-1.06, P＜0.01), leukocyte (HR: 1.06, 95%CI: 1.00-1.12, P=0.04) and triglyceride (HR: 1.19, 95%CI: 1.07-1.32, P＜0.01) were all independent risk factors for all-cause mortality of PD patients. However, age (HR: 1.05, 95%CI: 1.04-1.07, P＜0.01) and alkaline phosphatase (HR: 1.01, 95%CI: 1.00-1.01, P=0.02) were independent risk factors for all-cause mortality of diabetic patients. Conclusions Long-term survival rate was lower in diabetic PD patients than in non-diabetic PD patients. DM, age, leukocyte and triglyceride were independent risk factors of mortality in PD patients. Age and alkaline phosphatase were independent risk factors of mortality in diabetic patients.     

Effects of serum uric acid level on all-cause death and cardiovascular death in patients of maintaining peritoneal dialysis

Objective To investigate the effects of serum uric acid (SUA) on all-cause death and cardiovascular death in patients of maintaining peritoneal dialysis (PD). Methods One thousand and sixty-three PD patients in the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University Medical College were included. The SUA levels at 6 months after PD start were measured. Patients with SUA≥420 μmol/L were grouped in hyperuricemia group (492 cases) and patients with SUA＜420 μmol/L were grouped in normal uric acid group (571 cases). The effects on all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality were retrospectively analyzed. Results The median age of the patients was 51(41, 62) years; 557 cases were male (52.40%); the median follow-up time was 33(20, 54) months (6-96 months); 167 cases (15.71%) died during the follow-up period, including 64 cases (6.02%) with cardiovascular causes. The mortality in hyperuricemia group was 19.11%(94/492) and the cardiovascular mortality was 7.93%(39/492), both rates were higher than those in normal uric acid group, and the differences were statistically significant (P=0.005, P=0.015, respectively). Hyperuricemia (SUA≥420 μmol/L) at 6 months after PD start (HR=1.572, 95%CI 1.155-2.141, P=0.004), high uric acid level (continuous variable) at 6 months after PD start (HR=1.002, 95%CI 1.001-1.004, P=0.008), and age≥65 years (HR=3.571, 95%CI 2.556-4.990, P＜0.001), serum albumin≤30 g/L (HR=1.907, 95%CI 1.278-2.845, P=0.002), high Charlson comorbidity index (HR=1.209, 95%CI 1.032-1.417, P=0.019) at the beginning of PD start were independent risk factors for all-causes death in PD patients. Hyperuricemia (SUA≥420 μmol/L) at 6 months after PD start (HR=1.734, 95%CI 1.033-2.912, P=0.037) and age≥65 years (HR=1.761, 95%CI 1.024-3.209, P=0.041), with diabetes (HR=2.775, 95%CI 1.358-5.671, P=0.005) at the beginning of PD start were independent risk factors for cardiovascular death in PD patients. Conclusions SUA at 6 months after PD is an independent risk factor for all-cause death and cardiovascular death in PD patients.