QT dispersion in hemodialysis and CAPD patients

Prolongation of repolarization dispersion (QT interval dispersion) measured from the 12-lead surface ECG has been associated with sudden cardiac death and ventricular tachyarrhythmias in a variety of cardiac disorders. The aim of our study was to assess the effects of hemodialysis (HD) and continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) on QT dispersion in end-stage renal disease patients. 20 chronic HD patients (mean age 57.75 +/- 13.79 years) and 20 CAPD patients (mean age 50.79 +/- 14.94 years) who had no complaints and symptoms of cardiac arrhythmias as well as 20 healthy volunteers (mean age 48.74 +/- 10.88 years) underwent ECG testing. All HD patients were on bicarbonate three times weekly with cuprophane capillaries. 12-lead ECGs were recorded on the day after HD. The CAPD patients were on a standard CAPD program (four times daily with 2,000 cm(3) peritoneal fluid). ECGs were recorded when the patients were receiving their regular standard CAPD program. All ECGs were analyzed manually by one observer. There were no statistically significant differences in dialysis duration, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, sodium, calcium, and parathormone values between the HD and CAPD patients. The serum potassium values were significantly higher in HD patients when compared to CAPD patients. There was no difference in the mean of maximal QT among all three groups. The rate of QT interval dispersions was significantly higher in HD and CAPD patients as compared with healthy controls (p < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the QT dispersion rates between HD and CAPD patients. In conclusion, there is a tendency to cardiac arrhythmias in HD patients during the postdialysis period. Although CAPD patients are receiving dialysis daily, they also have higher rates of QT dispersions and accordingly a tendency to arrhythmias.     

Brain natriuretic peptide and its relationship to left ventricular hypertrophy in patients on peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis less than 3 years

An increase of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels is commonly observed in patients on dialysis. Increased circulating levels of BNP are related to future cardiac events and associated with shorter survival in patients on chronic hemodialysis (HD). During the first 1 or 2 years on dialysis, patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD) have been shown to have an improvement in left ventricular hypertrophy, blood pressure, and volume status. This study compares BNP levels and cardiac status of PD and HD patients without cardiovascular disease and on dialysis for less than 36 months. The correlation between plasma BNP concentration and findings of echocardiography before HD scans were examined and compared with findings of PD. Twenty-two HD patients (15 men, 7 women; mean age, 52.5 +/- 13.9 years) and 19 PD patients (10 men, 9 women; mean age, 47.6 +/- 11.3 years) were studied. There were no significant differences between HD and PD patients with regard to age, gender, duration of dialysis, left ventricular mass, left ventricular mass index (p > 0.05). Plasma BNP levels were markedly greater in HD patients (467.8 +/- 466.5 pg/ mL) than those of PD patients (143.1 +/- 165.2 pg/mL). Urine output was significantly higher in PD patients compared with HD patients (p < 0.05). A positive correlation between systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and plasma BNP in HD patients (r: 0.653, p: 0.001; r: 0.493, p: 0.023, respectively) was detected. Additional studies are needed to investigate whether lower BNP level in PD patients is an advantage.     

Comparison of the humoral markers of bone turnover and bone mineral density in patients on haemodialysis and continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis

Renal osteodystrophy is an important complication in patients with end-stage renal disease on maintenance dialysis. The aim of this study was to compare the biochemical markers of bone formation (serum collagen type I C-terminal propeptide) and resorption (serum deoxypyridinoline - DPD - and pyridinoline - PYR) with the bone mineral density (BMD) at lumbar spine, femoral neck, and forearm in patients with end-stage renal disease on haemodialysis (HD) versus continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). Fifty-nine adult patients, 45 on CAPD (18 females, 27 males) and 14 on HD (2 females, 12 males), were studied. The mean age was 44 +/- SEM 1.6 and 54.4 +/- 4.8 years, respectively. No significant differences in serum calcium, phosphorus, creatinine, and parathyroid hormone were found between patients on HD and CAPD in predialysis samples. Serum urea was significantly lower (p = 0.02) in the CAPD group. Serum PYR (nmol/l) and DPD (nmol/l) were significantly higher in patients on HD as compared with those on CAPD: 105 +/- 23.3 versus 43.7 +/- 3.47 (p = 0.007) and 31.0 +/- 2.4 versus 24.4 +/- 1.4 (p = 0.027), respectively. The results were still significantly higher in the HD patients following correction for serum creatinine and body mass index. There was a close correlation between dialysate DPD and creatinine in both dialysis modalities (HD r = 0.9, CAPD r = 0.76). The clearance of DPD did not differ significantly between the CAPD membrane and the HD membrane (p = 0.22). Serum collagen type I C-terminal propeptide was not significantly different between the HD and CAPD patients. The results were unaffected following correction for age and gender. The BMD was measured in 38 (65%) of the patients (HD n = 8, CAPD n = 30) by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and expressed as 'Z' scores. This was reduced at all sites in the patients with end-stage renal disease. The BMD was significantly lower at the ultradistal forearm (mostly trabecular bone) in HD patients as compared with CAPD patients (n = 0.02). A similar trend was observed at the lumbar spine, although the results failed to reach significance. In the whole population (n = 38), linear regression analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between BMD at the ultradistal forearm and serum PYR (r = -0.35, p = 0.04) and DPD (r = -0.33, p = 0.049). Combined measurements of BMD and biochemical markers of bone resorption may have potential in the identification of patients at high risk of bone loss who may require further evaluation of bone remodeling by bone histomorphometry.     

Serum erythropoietin levels and hematocrit in end-stage renal disease: influence of the mode of dialysis

Serum erythropoietin (Ep) levels were measured by radioimmunoassay in 70 patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) to evaluate the influence of the mode of dialysis on the relationship between serum Ep levels and the severity of anemia. Thirty-five patients were on hemodialysis (HD), seven were on intermittent peritoneal dialysis (IPD), and 28 were on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). Compared to HD, CAPD patients had higher serum Ep (CAPD), 46.1 +/- 13.4 v HD, 16.9 +/- 2.2 mU/mL) and hematocrit (CAPD, 33.9 +/- 2.5 v HD, 24.8 +/- 1.4%; P less than 0.05). The Ep and Hct values for IPD patients were intermediate between the other two groups. Serum Ep levels were higher in CAPD patients in the first 4 weeks of initiation of CAPD (144 +/- 35 mU/mL, n = 6) than later (39 +/- 6.4 mU/mL, n = 24). A significant fluctuation in serum Ep and Hct values was noted in patients on all three modes of dialysis, when multiple samples were obtained at different time intervals. There was a weak correlation between serum Ep and Hct in the three groups of dialysis patients; r = 0.36, P less than 0.005. The data suggest that CAPD provides a better biochemical milieu for Ep production and responsiveness than HD treatment of ESRD.     

Abnormal diastolic left ventricular filling by pulsed Doppler echocardiography in patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis.

To determine characteristics of diastolic left ventricular (LV) function in patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD), two groups of CAPD patients without (n = 23; group 1) vs with (n = 25; group 2) LV hypertrophy (greater than 13 mm) were compared with a group of untreated non-renal hypertensive patients with LV hypertrophy (n = 11; group 3) using Doppler-echocardiography. Age and body surface area were comparable in all three groups, mean CAPD-duration (32 +/- 28 vs 26 +/- 23 months; p = NS) was comparable in renal patients. LV systolic function in echocardiography (LVEF: 62 vs 64 vs 63%) and systolic time intervals were normal and comparable in all three groups. Atrial maximum filling velocities (96 +/- 25 vs 91 +/- 25 vs 67 +/- 8 cm/s) were comparably increased, the ratio of maximal early/atrial filling velocities was comparably decreased (0.73 +/- 0.25 vs 0.77 +/- 0.21 vs 0.99 +/- 0.05) in both groups of renal patients as compared to group 3 (p less than 0.05-0.01). Atrial filling fractions were increased in all three groups, more pronounced in group 1 than in group 3 (50 +/- 11 vs 40 +/- 7%; p less than 0.05). The normal correlation of Doppler parameters with age and with LV radius/thickness ratio was altered in renal patients such that high patient age tended to have an additional negative influence on LV diastolic function of hypertrophied, but not of normal myocardium. Isovolumic relaxation time was prolonged in all three groups (134 +/- 38 vs 131 +/- 34 vs 116 +/- 17 ms; p = NS). We conclude that in patients on CAPD, diastolic LV filling is impaired both in normal and hypertrophied myocardium. High age is a factor that further attributes to diastolic dysfunction of hypertrophied myocardium in CAPD.     

Serum beta 2-microglobulin concentration and its removal in patients treated with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis

This study was performed to clarify serum beta-2 microglobulin (beta 2-M) level and its change in 50 CAPD and 56 HD patients. There was significant correlation between duration of dialysis and serum beta 2-M level in CAPD and HD patients treated under 12 months, but no correlation in those treated over 12 months. Serum beta 2-M level was 33.5 +/- 9.1 mg/l in 45 CAPD patients treated over 12 months, and 46.2 +/- 21.1 mg/l in 35 HD patients. In 26 CAPD patients treated over 12 months, clearance and removal of beta 2-M were 1.0 +/- 0.3 ml/min and 43.0 +/- 17.8 mg/day. There was significant correlation between dwell time and beta 2-M removal (p less than 0.01), and these results suggested beta 2-M was removed by diffusion. Because CAPD treatment can lower serum beta 2-M level compared to HD, there is possibility that CAPD is useful at prevention of dialysis associated amyloidosis.     

Longer duration of predialysis nephrological care is associated with improved long-term survival of dialysis patients.

BACKGROUND: Late nephrological referral of chronic renal failure patients has been shown to be associated with high morbidity and short-term mortality on dialysis. However, the impact of predialysis nephrological care duration (PNCD) on the long-term survival of dialysis patients had not been evaluated. METHODS: We studied data from all 1057 consecutive patients who started dialysis treatment at the Necker Hospital from 1989 to 1998 (mean age at start of dialysis 53.8+/-17.2 years (range 18-91 years), excluding from analysis patients who presented with acute renal failure (n=60) or advanced malignancy (n=35). We evaluated the effects of PNCD and clinical risk factors on all-cause mortality after long-term follow-up on dialysis. RESULTS: Among the 1057 patients analysed (13.2% diabetics), PNCD was <6 months in 258 patients, 6-35 months in 267 patients, 36-71 months in 227 patients and >or=72 months in 307 patients. Cardiovascular (CV) morbidity, namely a history of myocardial or cerebral infarction, peripheral arteriopathy, and/or cardiac failure, before starting dialysis was 39.6% and 37.4%, respectively, in patients followed for <6 months or 6-35 months, compared with 24.4% in those followed for 36-71 months and 19.9% in those followed for >or=72 months (P<0.001). Five-year survival was significantly lower in patients with a PNCD of <6 months (59+/-4.1%) than for 36-71 months or >or=72 months (77.1+/-3.7 and 73.3+/-3.6%, respectively, P<0.001), but similar to those followed for 6-35 months (65.3+/-3.9%, NS). By Cox proportional hazard analysis, PNCD <6 months, age, diabetes and prior CV disease were independent predictive factors of all-cause death on dialysis. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides suggestive evidence that longer duration of regular nephrological care in the predialysis period, at least for several years prior to the start of dialysis, is associated with a better long-term survival on dialysis. Such data strongly support the argument for early referral and regular nephrological care of chronic renal failure patients.     

Malnutrition-inflammation-atherosclerosis (MIA) syndrome components in hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis patients

BACKGROUND: Malnutrition, inflammation, and atherosclerosis (MIA syndrome) are common in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. Each component of MIA syndrome is the predictor of outcomes in ESRD patients. In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to compare both dialysis modalities for MIA syndrome components. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty hemodialysis (HD) (mean age 44 +/- 11 years, 14 male and 16 female, mean time on dialysis: 31.0 +/- 19.0 months) and 30 continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients (41 +/- 9 years, 12 male and 18 female, mean time on dialysis: 25.5 +/- 21.5 months) were included. In order to determine malnutrition in ESRD patients, serum albumin level and anthropometric measurements were used. For inflammation, serum C-reactive protein level, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and fibrinogen levels were measured. Mean-carotid artery intima media thickness (m-CIMT), presence of carotid plaque and serum homocysteine level were used to determine atherosclerosis. RESULTS: Five CAPD patients (16%) and one HD patient (3%) was hypoalbuminemic. HD and CAPD groups were similar for inflammation. Mean-CIMT and serum homocysteine level were higher in HD patients than CAPD patients. There was a positive correlation between homocysteine and m-CIMT. CONCLUSION: Before choosing renal replacement therapy, malnutrition, inflammation, and atherosclerosis parameters must be investigated in ESRD patients. Hemodialysis seems to be more advantageous for malnutrition components than CAPD. Both dialysis modalities seem to be similar for inflammation, and CAPD modality has superiority for atherosclerosis. Before choosing the type of renal replacement therapy, assessment of MIA syndrome components could be useful for individualization of the decision on which dialytic modality is appropriate in ESRD patients.     

Concentrations of thyroxine-binding globulin in sera and peritoneal dialysates in patients on chronic peritoneal ambulatory dialysis

Losses in thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG) in peritoneal dialysate and thyroid function were evaluated in patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD), in comparison to patients on hemodialysis (HD) without TBG loss in the dialysate. The TBG concentration in the peritoneal dialysate was 0.26 +/- 0.09 microgram/ml (mean +/- SD, n = 24), with a daily loss of 2.47 +/- 0.94 mg. The serum TBG level in CAPD patients was 21.0 +/- 4.71 micrograms/ml (n = 24), which was not significantly different from that in HD patients (20.0 +/- 5.72 micrograms/ml, n = 24) or in healthy Japanese subjects. The serum TBG level correlated positively with the TBG loss and TBG level in the peritoneal dialysate (p less than 0.001). The serum T4 level in CAPD patients (4.93 +/- 1.38 microgram/dl, n = 24) was significantly greater than in HD patients (4.08 +/- 1.30 microgram/dl, n = 24, p less than 0.05).     

The Prevalence of Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Chinese Hemodialysis Patients Is Higher Than That in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients

Background. Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is common in dialysis patients, and an independent predictor of mortality. While recent studies have shown no differences in mortality between the two most common dialysis modalities, hemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD), their impact on LVH is controversial. We thus performed cardiac ultrasound studies in prevalent dialysis patients receiving either HD or PD and compared LVH. Methods. We included 48 HD and 62 PD patients receiving treatment for at least three months in our dialysis center. All patients underwent echocardiographic examination and blood pressure measurements immediately following therapy. Volume status was assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis. Results. There was no baseline difference in demographics or comorbidities between HD and PD patients. As expected, extracellular water (ECW) in post-HD patients was significantly lower than that in pre-HD and PD patients, while cardiac output (CO) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) were higher in pre-HD than that in post-HD or PD patients. There was no significant difference in CO or SBP between post-HD and PD patients. Left ventricular mass index (LVMI) was markedly higher in HD patients as compared to PD patients. Thus, the prevalence of LVH according to the Framingham criteria was 68.8% in HD patients and 45.2% in PD patients. Subgroup analysis showed similar results in the patients who had been on single-modality dialysis for at least two years and in the anuric patients. Finally, in a linear regression model (r² = 0.364, p < 0.001), SBP, treatment modality (to be in HD), and ECW were all independent predictors of LVMI. Conclusions. In a cross-sectional analysis of prevalent Chinese patients, we found a higher LVMI and a higher prevalence of LVH in HD than in PD patients. As LVMI was associated with high blood pressure and volume overload, we suggest that in these patients, PD may preserve more physiological hemodynamics even during long-term therapy.     

Chronic dialysis in patients with systemic amyloidosis: the experience in northern Italy.

The clinical outcome of 61 patients with renal amyloidosis treated with chronic dialysis was reviewed. Eighteen patients, 4 with primary or AL amyloidosis and 14 with reactive or AA amyloidosis, died within one month from starting treatment. The other 43 patients were treated with dialysis for 3 to 199 months and are the object of this study. Sixteen patients had AL amyloidosis and 27 had AA amyloidosis. Thirty-five patients were treated with hemodialysis (HD) for a mean period of 40 +/- 47 months and 8 were treated with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) for 20 +/- 15 months. Patient survival rate at 1 and 5 years was 68% and 30% respectively. There was no difference in survival rate between patients treated with HD and those treated with CAPD, while patients younger than 45 had a better 5-year survival rate. Twenty four (60%) patients achieved a satisfactory rehabilitation with dialysis. At the last follow-up, 15 patients (14 on HD, 1 on CAPD) were alive 61 +/- 58 months after starting dialysis. Twenty-eight patients died after 30 +/- 20 months. The main causes of death were: cardiovascular accident (11), stroke (3), sepsis (5) and cachexia (5). The most important extra-renal complications of amyloidosis were related to cardiovascular involvement (heart failures, arrhythmias, hypotension) and gastrointestinal involvement (malabsorption). Intra-dialytic hypotension in patients on HD and peritonitis in patients on CAPD were the main problems related to dialytic procedure. his study confirms that life expectancy and the quality of life of dialysis patients with systemic amyloidosis are poorer than those of general dialysis population.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)     

Incremental peritoneal dialysis: effects on the choice of dialysis modality, residual renal function and adequacy

There is still disagreement on whether peritoneal dialysis (PD) should begin with a full dose (Full_Dial) or with incremental doses (Incr_Dial) to compensate for the amount of Kt/V no longer supplied by the residual renal function (RRF). The aim of this study is to assess the effects of an Incr_Dial protocol on the choice of dialysis modality, RRF, and adequacy. The Incr_Dial protocol in our center is as follows: for patients with a glomerular filtration rate (GFR)>5 ml min(-1), PD is initiated with two exchanges per day (continuous ambulatory PD (CAPD)) or four sessions per week (ambulatory PD (APD)); and hemodialysis (HD) is initiated with two sessions per week. The PD dose is then increased in proportion to the reduction in the GFR as follows: GFR< or =5 and >3 ml min(-1)=3 CAPD exchanges or five APD sessions; GFR <3 ml min(-1)=full dialysis dose (Full_Dial). The effects of the Incr_Dial protocol on the choice of dialysis modality were assessed on 87 patients (pts) (age: 69.3+/-13.1 years) who initiated dialysis between 1 January 2004 and 31 May 2007. The effects of Incr_Dial on RRF and dialytic adequacy were assessed in 11 pts treated with two CAPD exchanges per day for a total of 106 months (mean+/-s.d. 9.7+/-6.5), and then treated with three CAPD exchanges per day for an additional 105 months (9.4+/-8.3). The use of Incr_Dial determined the choice of PD in 27 of 44 pts (61.4%) without indications or contraindications to HD or PD. CAPD was chosen by 20 of these pts (74.1%), whereas APD was preferred by 6 of the 8 pts switched from Incr_Dial to Full_Dial. During Incr_Dial, a significant reduction in the loss of GFR of 2.4+/-3.1 ml min(-1) year(-1) was observed when compared to the pre-dialysis period. Incr_Dial allowed for adequate clearance, as confirmed by the Kt/V (2.07+/-0.2), protein nitrogen appearance (1.17+/-0.13), and biochemical parameters. Ultrafiltration (UF) with icodextrin (772+/-166 ml per exchange) provided a daily UF of 517+/-296 ml day(-1) and remained unchanged when the duration of the dwell time increased significantly from 12.3+/-1.4 to 17.5+/-2.6 h.     

An African community-based chronic ambulatory peritoneal dialysis programme.

BACKGROUND: The reasons for failure of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) are varied. Against a background of mass poverty, poor resources, and the cheaper cost of CAPD it is the primary choice of dialysis. The aims of this study were to determine infection rates and document factors responsible for CAPD failure. METHODS: We report a prospective study in a large African tertiary hospital and its community based satellite clinics. Infection rates as well as factors that may influence them were studied. Sites of infections were documented and causes of CAPD failure recorded. All patients qualifying for dialysis from January 1998 to July 1999 were included. RESULTS: Eighty-four patients were enrolled. There were 55 males and 29 females. The mean age was 39+/-10 (range 16-71) years and mean duration on dialysis at the end of the trial period was 17 months. The peritonitis rate was one episode every 27.9 patient months. Attrition to haemodialysis occurred in 16.6% of patients (n=14) and loss to follow-up in 29.8% (n=25). Fourteen patients regained renal function or were transplanted. Peritonitis appeared to be related to a poor BAD-C score (Bara Adapted Dialysis Compliance), i.e. combination of clinical status and clinic visits (P=0.07). The odds ratio for failure of CAPD with peritonitis was 5.3 times higher (confidence interval (CI) 1.7-17.1; P=0.0085). A low BAD-C score was a significant indicator of CAPD 'failure' (P=0.0001). The natural turnover rate of patients was 46%. Home conditions, employment, and education levels did not correlate with CAPD 'failure'. CONCLUSION: The peritonitis rate and aetiology are similar to the developed world. Socioeconomic factors did not appear to play a role in peritonitis rates or CAPD failure.     

The Prevalence of Hypertension, Valve Calcification and Left Ventricular Hypertrophy and Geometry in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients

Background/Aims: Cardiac valve calcification (CVC) and left ventricular (LV) abnormalities are common indicators of a poor prognosis in dialysis patients. We determined the prevalence of hypertension, CVC, LV hypertrophy (LVH) and LV geometry in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Methods: Eighty-seven patients (50 female; mean age 42 ± 13 years; mean dialysis duration 46 ± 24 months) on strict salt and volume restriction, none of whom were receiving antihypertensives, were included in the study. Blood pressure (BP), biochemical parameters, CVC, LVH and LV geometry were determined. Results: Most patients were normotensive. CVC of the mitral and aortic valves and of both valves were noted in 22, 23 and 15% of patients, respectively. Patients with CVC had significantly higher diastolic BP (p = 0.023), cardiothoracic index (CTI; p = 0.037) and LV mass index (LVMI; p = 0.002). LVH, noted overall in 44% of cases, was present in 62 and 36% of the patients with and without CVC, respectively (p = 0.028). Of the whole group, only 50.6% had normal LV geometry. LVH was associated with lower serum albumin (p = 0.002), higher CTI (p = 0.027) and more frequent CVC (p = 0.028). LVMI was greater in patients with CVC (p = 0.002). Conclusion: Strict salt restriction and the achievement of ideal dry weight result in normotension in PD patients. CVC is associated with LVH, both of which are lower in normotensive patients.     

Elevated cardiac troponin T is associated with increased left ventricular mass index and predicts mortality in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis patients.

BACKGROUND: Patients with end-stage renal disease have a high risk of premature death, which is due mainly to cardiovascular (CV) events. Elevated cardiac troponin T (cTnT) is related to increased left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and predicts poor outcome in chronic haemodialysis patients. We investigated the prognostic value of cTnT and its relationship with left ventricular mass in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients. METHODS: Sixty-five CAPD patients (mean age: 56+/-12 years; 36% males) with no evidence of acute coronary syndrome in 28 days prior to the study were examined prospectively. After 48 months of follow-up, we evaluated total and CV mortality. RESULTS: During follow-up, 23 patients (35%) died (70% CV causes, 22% infection, 4% tumour, 4% unknown). In univariate analysis, concentrations of cTnT >/=0.035 ng/ml, increased LVMI, diabetes, serum albumin and age were all strong predictors of total mortality. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, cTnT >/=0.035 ng/ml and age independently predicted total mortality [odds ratio (OR): 4.31; 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.16-16.04; P = 0.008 and OR: 1.08; 95% CI: 1.02-1.15; P = 0.002, respectively]. cTnT level >/=0.035 ng/ml was the only independent predictor of CV mortality in multivariate logistic regression analysis (OR: 8.94; 95% CI: 2.23-35.88; P<0.005). There was a significant positive correlation between serum cTnT level and LVMI (rho = 0.41; P<0.002). Neither cTnI, CK nor CK-MB were related to total or CV mortality. CONCLUSIONS: Elevated serum cTnT but not cTnI predicted total and CV mortality in CAPD patients. Elevated cTnT levels were also associated with increased LVMI.     

Regression of Left Ventricular Hypertrophy After Arteriovenous Fistula Closure in Renal Transplant Recipients: A Long-Term Follow-Up

The long-term effects of hemodialysis arteriovenous fistula (AVF) closure on left ventricular (LV) morphology are unknown. Using echocardiography, we prospectively studied 17 kidney transplant recipients before, 1, and, 21 months after AVF closure (mean fistula flow 1371 +/- 727 mL/min). Eight kidney transplant recipients with a patent AVF, matched for age, time after AVF creation, and time after transplantation, served as controls. LV mass index (LVMI) decreased from 139 +/- 44 g/m2 before AVF closure to 127 +/- 45 g/m2 and 117 +/- 40 g/m2 at 1 and 21 months post-closure, respectively (p < 0.001), but remained unchanged in controls. LV hypertrophy prevalence (LVMI > 125 g/m2) decreased from 65% before, to 41% early, and 18%, late, after surgery (p = 0.008), mostly from a decrease in LV end-diastolic diameter. Consequently, the prevalence of LV concentric remodeling (relative wall thickness > 0.45 without hypertrophy) increased from 12% before, to 35% early, and 65% late, after surgery (p = 0.003). Diastolic arterial blood pressure increased from 78 +/- 15 mmHg before, to 85 +/- 13 mmHg early, and 85 +/- 10 mmHg late, after surgery (p < 0.015). In conclusion, closure of large and/or symptomatic AVF induces long-term regression of LV hypertrophy. However, residual concentric remodeling geometry as well as diastolic blood pressure increase may blunt the expected beneficial cardiac effects of the procedure.     

Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring in patients receiving long, slow home haemodialysis.

BACKGROUND: Good blood pressure (BP) control has been reported previously in haemodialysis (HD) patients receiving 8-h dialysis sessions. Home HD allows patients to dialyze for long periods, but there are few data on the BP control achieved by these patients. We studied BP control, using ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM), in our home-HD patients who were receiving long-hours dialysis. METHODS: Twenty-four patients aged 52.7+/-11 years underwent ABPM. They had been on home HD for 52.9+/-39 months and dialysed for 7.2+/-1.1 h thrice weekly. Two patients were taking antihypertensive drugs. Historical data on BP and weight gains were obtained from the patients' own records. Left ventricular (LV) mass was assessed by echocardiography and total body water (TBW) by bioelectrical impedance. RESULTS: The mean 24-h BP was 129+/-17 mmHg (systolic) and 83+/-14 mmHg (diastolic). The daytime BP was 131+/-17 mmHg (systolic) and 84+/-14 mmHg (diastolic), while the night-time BP was 126+/-22 mmHg (systolic) and 81+/-17 mmHg (diastolic). Six patients (25%) had a normal circadian BP rhythm, but the rest showed a subnormal fall or an increase in BP at night. Mean 24-h BP did not correlate significantly with time on dialysis, dialysis session length, Kt/V, haemoglobin, interdialytic weight gain, or TBW. Twenty-one patients (87%) had LV hypertrophy and 16 of these had diastolic dysfunction. LV mass index was inversely correlated with nocturnal BP fall (r=-0.54, P=0.03). Non-dippers had been treated longer than dippers (29 vs 59.2 months, P=0.03) but they were similar in respect to age, dialysis session length or Hb concentration. CONCLUSIONS: Long, slow haemodialysis at home provides satisfactory daytime BP control in the majority of patients without the need for antihypertensive drugs but abnormal circadian BP rhythm and LV hypertrophy remain common.     

Uncontrolled hypertension due to volume overload contributes to higher left ventricular mass index in CAPD patients.

BACKGROUND: Hypertension (HT) is common in patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) and is responsible for increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of 'uncontrolled HT' during background therapy in CAPD patients by using office measurements and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM). We further determined whether intravascular volume status, assessed by inferior vena cava diameter (IVCD) index, contributes to higher blood pressure (BP) and increased left ventricular mass index (LVMI). METHODS: Seventy-four CAPD patients were included in the final analysis. All patients underwent echocardiographic examination and received ABPM. Patients undergoing CAPD were categorized into two groups: 'uncontrolled HT' (Group A) and 'normotensive and controlled HT' (Group B). Intravascular volume status was determined using the IVCD index and collapsibility index (CI) on the same day as ABPM. RESULTS: The prevalence of HT was 84% when using office measurements and 82% when using daytime ABPM. Daytime BP was 147/92 mm Hg by office measurements and 145/91 mm Hg by ABPM (P>0.05). The prevalence of 'uncontrolled HT' measured by ABPM was 73% (n=54). Patients with uncontrolled HT (Group A) were taking more antihypertensive medications than patients with 'normotension and controlled HT' (Group B, n=20; 1.0+/-0.8 vs 0.5+/-0.7, P=0.008). The IVCD index was higher in Group A than in Group B (9.2+/-2.1 vs 7.7+/-1.9 mm/m(2), P=0.007). There was no correlation between IVCD index and office BP, ABPM measurements or LVMI. The LVMI was also higher in Group A than in Group B (145+/-39 vs 118+/-34 g/m(2), P<0.01). Stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that 24 h diastolic BP and haemoglobin were independent determinants of LVMI. CONCLUSION: Uncontrolled HT on background therapy is highly prevalent among volume overloaded CAPD patients. Further long-term prospective studies examining effects of salt restriction and ultrafiltration on BP control and left ventricle wall thickness are warranted.     

Serum free carnitine, carnitine esters and lipids in patients on peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis

Serum free and esterified carnitine levels as well as lipids were investigated in patients undergoing regular hemodialysis (HD) treatment before and during 12 weeks of treatment with L-carnitine (1 g i.v.) at the end of each HD. The results were compared with those obtained in patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD; n = 15) or intermittent peritoneal dialysis (IPD; n = 3) and healthy controls (CO; n = 20). In HD patients (n = 23) total carnitine (TC) was 49.9 +/- 3.9 (CO: 46.0 +/- 2.5; NS), free carnitine (FC) was 31.6 +/- 2.8 (CO: 37.4 +/- 1.3; p less than 0.05), short-chain acylcarnitine (SCC) was 17.0 +/- 1.8 (CO: 7.2 +/- 0.9; p less than 0.0001) and long-chain acylcarnitine (LCC) was 1.2 +/- 0.2 mumol/l (CO: 0.6 +/- 0.1; p less than 0.05). FC was in the normal range in CAPD (35.6 +/- 3.2) and IPD (44.5 +/- 8.0 mumol/l) patients, whereas SCC (30.1 +/- 3.5) and LCC (2.9 +/- 0.2) levels were maximal elevated in IPD patients (11.8 +/- 0.8 and 1.5 +/- 0.2 on CAPD). Therefore, TC was higher in IPD than in CAPD patients (77.5 +/- 5.0 vs. 49.0 +/- 3.5 mumol/l). 12 weeks after L-carnitine supplementation in HD patients, TC was 313.9 +/- 22.6, FC was 207.7 +/- 12.4, SCC was 99.6 +/- 12.1 and LCC was 7.1 +/- 0.6 mumol/l. TC and FC were significantly lower in females compared with males. Total cholesterol and ketone bodies were normal, HDL cholesterol was significantly decreased before and after L-carnitine supplementation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)     

Cardiac transplantation in survivors of lymphoma: a multi-institutional survey

BACKGROUND: Cardiac transplantation has been successfully performed in patients with a history of presumably cured Hodgkin's disease (HD) and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). Though the risk of recurrence is a major concern, the long-term influence of prior cancer and cancer therapy on posttransplant outcome has not been previously investigated. METHODS: Questionnaires were sent to 130 cardiac transplant centers in the United States registered with the United Network for Organ Sharing. Data collected included patient demographics; type, stage, and timing of HD/NHL; treatment for HD/NHL; posttransplant immunosuppressive regimen, rejection history, and outcomes; and Epstein-Barr virus status. RESULTS: Thirty-four cardiac transplant recipients with a previous history of HD (n=16) or NHL (n=18) were identified. HD patients averaged 41+/-15 years of age, with a mean disease-free interval of 15+/-9 years at the time of transplantation. NHL patients averaged 42+/-17 years of age with a mean disease-free interval of 10+/-9 years at the time of transplantation. The mean follow-up for the entire group was 50 months (range, 2 days to 136 months), and mean follow-up for the survivors was 67 months (range, 23-136 months). The 1-, 3-, 5-, 7-, and 10-year actuarial survival estimates for the entire group are 77%, 64%, 64%, 64%, and 50%, respectively. Actuarial survival was lower in HD patients (P=0.04) and in patients who had previously undergone splenectomy (P=0.008). Cox regression analysis identified only prior splenectomy (P=0.02) as an independent risk factor for mortality after cardiac transplantation with an adjusted relative risk of 6.2 (1.7-21.9, 95% confidence intervals). CONCLUSIONS: Although the numbers are small, these data strongly suggest that there is an increased mortality risk for cardiac transplant recipients with prior HD who have undergone splenectomy.