Research reveals a strong link between kidney impairment and decreased blood flow to the brain, increasing the risk of stroke and dementia. Poor kidney function was strongly related to decreased blood flow to the brain, with the strongest association seen in participants with decreased blood flow.
Researchers found that TMAO levels increase with advancing severity of kidney disease and are linked to atherosclerosis and premature death. Targeting TMAO generation by intestinal bacteria may be a novel strategy for safeguarding heart health in patients with CKD.
A study found that 26.3% of dialysis patients missed sessions and 66.1% received treatment at non-regular units after Hurricane Sandy. Patients with emergency packets had their medical records stored at home, highlighting the need for preparedness.
A study found that tailored mobile health technologies can help patients with chronic kidney disease take their medications appropriately, with a 5% error rate. The technologies were designed to provide safe and easy-to-use medication guidance for patients.
Proteins in the Wnt signaling pathway play a critical role in driving kidney scarring, which can lead to chronic kidney disease. Boosting expression of Wnt proteins in healthy kidneys may be an effective strategy for treating chronic kidney disease.
Certain ECG measures can identify individuals with chronic kidney disease at high risk of dying from heart disease. A panel of 5 common ECG parameters was found to enhance prediction of cardiovascular death in this population, suggesting potential novel interventions to prevent cardiovascular complications.
Experts identified strategies for optimizing EHRs to better manage CKD patients, including standardizing data storage and accessibility. Well-designed EHRs can monitor patient conditions, facilitate collaboration among providers, and support patient self-management.
Researchers found that mortality rates vary significantly according to kidney disease subtype, suggesting that treatment plans should be tailored towards disease-specific risks. The study analyzed data from 84,301 patients and showed significant differences in survival rates among those with different subtypes of glomerulonephritis.
Children with lower vitamin D levels had higher blood markers related to kidney dysfunction and greater kidney function loss over time. Maintaining normal vitamin D levels helps preserve kidney function in children with CKD.
A study published in Cancer Research reveals how renal cell carcinoma reprogrammes its environment to suppress the immune response. The research found that cancer grade significantly impacts this process, with higher-grade cancers exhibiting more aggressive remodelling.
A new study reveals that severe kidney injury during pregnancy is rare, but affects otherwise healthy women who acquire a major complication. Babies born to mothers with severe kidney injury are at increased risk of low birth weight or premature birth.
A recent study found that dexamethasone can reduce the risk of severe acute kidney injury after cardiac surgery by 2.5 times compared to a placebo. Patients with pre-existing advanced chronic kidney disease showed the greatest benefits from the drug.
A study in Australia found that the public generally favors eliminating disincentives for living kidney donors, but is opposed to providing financial incentives. Many participants believed reimbursement and justifiable recompensation were acceptable ways to support living donors.
A study of 647,457 patients on chronic dialysis found that genetically related family members have a 70% increased risk of cardiac arrest compared to unrelated patients. This increased risk is attributed to inherited genetic factors, which may contribute to the high mortality rate among dialysis patients.
A new assay developed by researchers can identify novel drug candidates that protect kidney cells from damage, which could lead to the development of new treatments for chronic kidney disease. The system has already identified a small molecule called pyrintegrin that effectively protected rodent kidney cells.
A study found that dialysis patients with high parathyroid hormone levels and subsequent bone loss are at risk for worsening coronary artery calcification. Monitoring these factors could help prevent cardiovascular problems and early death in dialysis patients.
A new study reveals that kidneys from older donors provide a lifetime of kidney function for older patients with shorter life expectancy, while younger patients do not benefit. Rapid transplantation from older donors is superior to delayed transplantation, increasing access to these organs.
HIV+ kidney transplant recipients who are not infected with HCV have similar 5-year and 10-year kidney survival rates as uninfected recipients. Patient survival among mono-infected HIV+ recipients is also comparable to uninfected recipients, while co-infected patients experience inferior outcomes.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that even mild stages of chronic kidney disease during pregnancy can increase risks of preterm delivery, neonatal intensive care, and hypertension. In contrast, risks of intrauterine death or fetal malformations were not significantly higher in women wi...
A new study found that high phosphate levels cause a stress signal inside blood vessel cells, leading to the release of microparticles that promote blood clot formation. This process is a common cause of injury and death, particularly in patients with kidney disease who lose the ability to excrete excess phosphate.
Researchers found that dialysis patients have altered enzyme activities and compromised HDL function, which may lead to advances in protecting kidney disease patients' heart health. Heart disease is a leading cause of death in these patients.
A urine test can predict the risk of kidney injury in heart failure patients, allowing clinicians to identify those at high risk and take preventive measures. The study found that urinary angiotensinogen levels can accurately predict acute kidney injury and patient rehospitalization or death within one year.
A study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology suggests that a diet high in animal proteins, especially red meat, can increase the risk of developing kidney failure in people with chronic kidney disease. Conversely, consuming diets rich in fruits and vegetables may protect kidney function.
A recent study found that patients with advanced kidney disease have been initiating dialysis progressively earlier over time. Despite no measurable differences in patient sickness or reasons for dialysis, the trend suggests a shift towards embracing higher levels of kidney function as acceptable for dialysis initiation.
Chronic pain in patients with chronic kidney disease is common and associated with improper use of pain medications. An estimated 26 million people in the US have CKD, making it a significant concern for patient safety.
As of January 1, 2016, Elsevier will publish the flagship journals Kidney International and Kidney International Supplements from the International Society of Nephrology. These journals are highly regarded for their original research in nephrology and kidney disease.
A new study has discovered how the enzyme heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) regulates immune cells in response to kidney injury. The research found that HO-1 directs a specific subset of myeloid cells to and from the kidney, which helps protect against poor recovery after acute kidney injury.
Patients with chronic kidney disease who consume high acid diets are 3-times more likely to develop kidney failure than those on low acid diets. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help protect kidneys.
A simple test using furosemide and urine output can predict which patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) are at risk of developing serious kidney problems. The Furosemide Stress Test (FST) improved predictions of outcomes in patients with early AKI, paving the way for robust clinical diagnostic tools.
A study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology reveals a key signaling pathway that helps protect healthy tissue from excessive immune activation. This finding may lead to improved treatment options for patients with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus.
A study found that high-salt intake accelerates kidney scarring in rats with chronic kidney disease by activating the brain-kidney connection called the renin-angiotensin axis. Targeting this nerve reduced salt-induced kidney scarring, providing new strategies for protecting patients' kidney health.
A study found that people with recurrent kidney stones have more calcification in their arteries, increasing their risk for heart disease. Additionally, kidney stone formers tend to have less dense bones, elevating their risk for osteoporosis.
A study found that both low and high blood calcium levels, as well as high phosphorus levels, are associated with an increased risk of premature death in dialysis patients. The study suggests that lowering these levels may improve patients' health, but further research is needed.
A new algorithm is a useful tool for measuring chronic kidney disease patients' readiness to make decisions about initiating dialysis. Patients with knowledge and fewer lifestyle barriers to home dialysis are more likely to be ready to make decisions, while clinicians who explain treatment options can increase readiness.
A Pitt study links biomarkers to long-term kidney damage and death in critically ill, highlighting the importance of early intervention. Researchers found that tissue inhibitor metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) and IGF-binding protein-7 (IGFBP7) can identify patients at increased risk for adverse outcomes.
Research identifies strong genetic association between apolipoprotein L1 variants and FSGS in African Americans, highlighting the need for targeted therapies. Patients with these variants respond to immunosuppressant treatments but tend to progress more rapidly to kidney failure than others.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that older kidney donors with hypertension had good kidney health after donation. After 6 months, hypertensive and non-hypertensive donors both maintained excellent blood pressure control and robust compensatory kidney responses.
A study found that cinacalcet reduced the rate of bone fracture in patients on dialysis by 16-29%, after adjusting for patient characteristics. The drug may provide a protective effect against fractures in these patients, who are at increased risk due to kidney failure.
A study found that decreased blood levels of Klotho increase the risk of heart disease in mice with chronic kidney disease, suggesting potential treatment strategy to protect kidney disease patients' heart health. If confirmed in humans, increasing Klotho levels may help protect the hearts of patients with chronic kidney disease.
A simple 5-variable model accurately predicts most cases of kidney failure in socially disadvantaged individuals with moderate or advanced chronic kidney disease. The model can help guide approaches to reduce socioeconomic disparities in kidney disease care.
A US policy giving priority to prior organ donors has been shown to significantly reduce waiting times and improve the quality of organs received. Living donors who later need a transplant experience much shorter waits and receive higher-quality kidneys compared to those on the waiting list without donation history.
A 12-week exercise program improved physical function and quality of life for patients with advanced chronic kidney disease, decreasing their pain. The study suggests that incorporating exercise into kidney disease care can significantly improve patients' lives.
A recent study has found a strong association between air pollution and the development of chronic kidney disease. The research, which analyzed data from over 1.1 million people in the US, revealed that even low levels of particulate matter can increase the risk of CKD.
For the first time, clinicians have successfully provided hemodialysis to a patient with Ebola virus disease, resulting in recovery of kidney function. The protocol involved careful measures to maximize safety and minimize risk of secondary transmission, demonstrating that renal replacement therapies can be provided safely.
A study of 699 African American adults found that those with severe periodontal disease developed chronic kidney disease at a rate 4 times higher than those without. Targeting periodontal disease may be an important path towards reducing disparities in chronic and end-stage kidney disease.
A study found that sleep apnea is associated with more rapid loss of renal function in patients with diabetic nephropathy. Researchers identified high-risk scores for obstructive sleep apnea, which were common in non-dialysis CKD patients and linked to decreased kidney function.
Two cholesterol management guidelines agree that nearly all patients with chronic kidney disease should receive statins, but 50% of those recommended are not taking them. The study found the Pooled Cohort risk equations to be accurate among people with CKD, indicating a valid tool for estimating heart disease risk.
A study found that an endothelin-A antagonist can enhance renal recovery in patients with renovascular disease. The medication, already used for pulmonary hypertension, promotes kidney function and improves responses after renal angioplasty.
A study found that dialysis patients on easily removable beta blockers have a higher risk of premature death compared to those on harder-to-remove beta blockers. The researchers suggest changing prescriptions to lower this risk.
A Mediterranean-style diet is associated with a 17% decreased likelihood of developing chronic kidney disease, while dietary patterns resembling the diet reduce risk by 50%. More than 20 million US adults have chronic kidney disease.
A recent study found that home blood pressure monitors can be inaccurate, with systolic readings off by as much as 5mm Hg and diastolic readings off by as much as 10mm Hg in up to 30% of patients. The American Society of Nephrology recommends that all patients with home monitors get them validated with their healthcare providers.
A study of 51,785 individuals with kidney stones found a significant link between the condition and an increased risk of bone fractures. The excess risk was greatest in males during adolescence and women during middle age.
A recent study published by the American Society of Nephrology found that binge drinking in young men is associated with an increased likelihood of developing high blood pressure. In contrast, low to moderate alcohol use in early adulthood is linked to a reduced risk of hypertension in females.
A blood test can help doctors predict which patients with an autoimmune disease are at risk of relapse, potentially preventing kidney failure. Researchers found that autoantibody increases were linked to an 11-fold increased risk of relapse in patients with kidney involvement.
A study found that recent policy changes did not create racial disparities in the management of anemia and mineral metabolism among dialysis patients. The analysis of 7384 patients at 132 facilities showed similar trends in laboratory measures and management practices for different races.
Researchers found that high-sensitivity troponin T and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels strongly predict heart failure in individuals with mild to severe kidney disease. These biomarkers may indicate subclinical cardiovascular changes, contributing to the development of heart failure.
Research findings suggest that aerobic activity improves the health-related quality of life and reduces depressive symptoms among hemodialysis patients. The study also found that dialysis facilities can promote physical activity levels by offering exercise programs, potentially improving patient outcomes.
Kidney transplant recipients infected with BK virus are more likely to develop donor-specific antibodies, which can lead to organ rejection. The study found a significant association between persistent BK infections and the development of these detrimental antibodies.
A randomized clinical trial found that cooling dialysis fluids to 0.5°C below body temperature protects against progressive white matter brain injury due to blood pressure instability. This simple intervention does not just improve patient comfort but completely prevents brain damage in patients undergoing dialysis.
A study finds that older adults, women, and less educated individuals have more concerns about kidney transplantation. These concerns can lead to lower chances of getting listed for a transplant. The study aims to address these barriers to improve access to transplantation.