The American Society of Nephrology presents results from high-impact clinical trials that could transform kidney-related medical care. The trials will focus on improving patient outcomes and advancing the treatment of kidney diseases.
Researchers have created a polygenic risk score for pediatric steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome, which is associated with earlier age of onset in children. The score was generated from genetic data and showed promise in predicting the development of the condition.
Researchers developed an AI-based algorithm to predict major adverse kidney events within 90 days of discharge. The algorithm accurately predicted 19.7% of patients' development of acute kidney injury or chronic disease.
A population-level study found that COVID-19 vaccine doses 2-3 were associated with a higher relative risk but small absolute increase in glomerular disease relapse. Most flares were mild, and the benefits of vaccination outweighed the risks.
An AI-based model has been developed to predict patients' risk of acute kidney injury (AKI), which is common in intensive care units. The model was validated in four medical centers and showed accuracy in predicting AKI 24 hours ahead of time.
A study published in the American Society of Nephrology found that one-third of patients with chronic kidney disease experienced worsening symptoms over time, leading to a higher risk of needing dialysis and death. The study identified two profiles of symptom trajectories: those with worsening symptoms and those with stable symptoms.
A recent study examined public comments from Canadians regarding deemed consent legislation, which automatically assumes consent for deceased organ donation. The study found that while some people supported the legislation, others raised concerns about individual autonomy and potential errors. The authors emphasize the importance of pu...
A recent study in the Netherlands provides an estimate of the proportion of working-aged kidney transplant recipients who are employed and identifies characteristics associated with lower work functioning. Despite side effects of immunosuppressive therapy and fatigue, stable kidney transplant recipients often function well at work.
A new study finds that using race-free equations for estimating kidney function can minimize racial differences in accrued preemptive waiting time. The research suggests that a specific equation, creatinine-based, reduces racial disparities more effectively than another equation, cystatin C-based.
A new study found that kidney transplant recipients experience immune insufficiency during acute COVID-19, despite reduced immunosuppression. This phenomenon is associated with increased expression of innate immune pathways and decreased activation of adaptive immune pathways.
A recent study suggests that many patients on the transplant waitlist would accept lower quality kidneys in exchange for a shorter waiting time. The research identifies three patient-preference classes, with some respondents willing to accept increases in waiting time for small improvements in kidney quality.
A new study found that peritoneal dialysis (PD) costs Medicare less than hemodialysis, even as more patients are placed on PD. The analysis of US Medicare beneficiaries showed that overall average expenditures were 11% higher for hemodialysis than for PD.
Women tend to have lower kidney function than men in middle age, but their kidney function declines more slowly over time. This study provides important knowledge regarding age-related loss of kidney function and sex disparities in the prevalence of CKD.
A third COVID-19 mRNA vaccine dose enhanced patients' protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection in adults with kidney failure on dialysis. Patients with low circulating anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels had nearly 1.5-fold higher risk of infection.
Women are less likely to receive diagnostic codes related to CKD, be referred to a nephrologist, and have their kidney function monitored compared to men. Despite guidelines recommending equal care, women receive suboptimal management of chronic kidney disease, with lower rates of testing and guideline-recommended medications.
Pediatric kidney transplant recipients with high tacrolimus intrapatient variability are at increased risk of developing antibodies against the transplanted kidney. This variability can be identified through hospital electronic health records, allowing for early intervention to prevent rejection and improve graft outcomes.
Researchers analyzed electronic health records and found rosuvastatin associated with higher risks of hematuria, proteinuria, and kidney failure. High-dose rosuvastatin poses additional risk, especially for patients with advanced kidney disease.
A recent study found that patients undergoing dialysis face a higher risk of dying in the 30 days after a hurricane. The risk is especially high immediately after storms and wanes over time.
A recent study published in JASN uncovers a previously overlooked mechanism contributing to ADPKD, suggesting that the loss of polycystin-2 protein in the endoplasmic reticulum plays a crucial role. Activating TricB may be a promising treatment strategy for ADPKD.
A recent study found that clinicians perceived greater vulnerability among older patients with CKD and encouraged home-based modalities during the pandemic. However, discussions of COVID-19-related risks and advanced care planning remained limited.
A study published in CJASN found that vaccinated patients on dialysis had lower risks of hospitalization and death due to COVID-19. The analysis, which included over 1,300 patients, showed that two doses of the vaccine reduced severe cases, making it a crucial protection for this vulnerable population.
A recent study published in CJASN found that SGLT-2 inhibitors were not associated with an increased risk of fractures in adults with chronic kidney disease, regardless of their kidney function. The study included over 38,000 new users of the medications and compared them to those prescribed a different diabetes medication.
A study found that changes in anemia care policies led to lower rates of major adverse cardiovascular events, mortality, and stroke among patients with kidney failure receiving hemodialysis. The policy changes resulted from a shift towards more conservative ESA dosing, which reduced acute myocardial infarction risk.
A new instrument, KART 2.0, measures Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and transplant-related knowledge to identify patients who could benefit from additional education and counselling. The tool was validated in a diverse group of patients with moderate to severe CKD.
A new commentary reveals the underappreciated costs of switching to peritoneal dialysis, which may limit its use in the US. The study identifies policies that could be implemented to address cost-related barriers and increase uptake of peritoneal dialysis.
A study published in JASN found that COVID-19 vaccination significantly protected individuals with kidney failure undergoing dialysis against SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe COVID-19. Vaccination reduced the risk of hospitalization by 52% and mortality rate by 10% compared to unvaccinated individuals.
A new study found that palliative care for hospitalized patients with both COVID-19 and acute kidney injury (AKI) was often called later than expected, despite the high risk of death. Palliative care supports primary doctors in managing emotional and physical symptoms while assisting in advance care planning.
Researchers created two new prediction tools for patients with CKD, incorporating factors such as long-term blood sugar, inflammation, and kidney/heart injury. The models improve risk classification for stroke and heart attack within 10 years compared to standard models.
Two studies provide insights into COVID-19 vaccination effects on dialysis patients. Vaccination shows a protective effect against severe forms of COVID-19, with both individual and herd immunity contributing to protection. Antibody response also plays a role in durable protection over time.
Researchers studied 23 adults with chronic kidney disease and their caregivers, finding that challenges include burden, responsibility, and power dynamics. The study aimed to develop a practical framework for investigators to involve more patients and caregivers in research.
A recent study found that patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) face both short- and long-term risks, with over 1 in 4 dying within a year of hospitalization. The study analyzed data from the Veterans Health Administration and identified significant mortality trends associated with AKI.
Men and women with advanced kidney disease show differing health-related quality of life trajectories, with women experiencing lower scores initially but a more gradual decline over time. Factors such as kidney function decline, phosphate levels, and hemoglobin also influence physical and mental health scores in both men and women.
A new study reveals that in many countries, there are significant gaps in care related to the importance of nutrition for maintaining kidney health. Nutritional interventions can slow kidney function decline and reduce symptoms.
A recent study published in CJASN found that patients who undergo retransplantation after a failed first kidney transplant have a longer average survival time compared to those on dialysis. The study analyzed data from 2,346 adults and showed that retransplantation resulted in an additional 5.8 months of life expectancy.
New research reveals that COVID-19 vaccinated kidney transplant recipients have impaired antibody responses against emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants, including B.1.351 and B.1.617.2. The study found that these patients require additional vaccinations to maintain high levels of neutralizing antibodies.
A study surveyed AKI survivors to reveal its physical, social, and emotional effects. The results show the need for interventions to improve health-related quality-of-life for AKI patients.
A scoping review highlights the evolution of video-based telemedicine for chronic kidney disease management, showing improved clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. However, access to broadband internet and technology literacy remain significant barriers.
A recent study compared immune responses in patients with and without kidney failure following different COVID-19 vaccines. The findings suggest that higher doses of the mRNA-1273 vaccine may improve SARS-CoV-2 vaccine effectiveness in hemodialysis patients.
New research identifies coffee metabolites that may affect kidney disease risk, with some associated with higher risks of chronic kidney disease. The study found 3 metabolites linked to increased CKD risk: glycochenodeoxycholate, O-methylcatechol sulfate, and 3-methyl catechol sulfate.
A new study found that racial and ethnic disparities in pediatric kidney transplantation decreased significantly after the implementation of the Kidney Allocation System in 2014. The study showed no racial disparities in waitlist time until transplantation before or after the policy change, but disparities remained for time on dialysis...
A survey of US transplant centers found a consensus to remove race-based adjustments from kidney function calculations, but also acknowledged potential harms of dropping the adjustment. The study aims to reduce healthcare disparities and improve patient care.
An analysis of Medicare's Comprehensive ESRD Care Initiative found that factors like leaner operations, organizational experience, and community resources contribute to successful performance. The study aims to inform healthcare providers and policymakers in developing value-based payment models for kidney care.
A study found that patients affected by dialysis facility closures experienced higher rates of hospitalizations (7-9%) and a higher risk of dying within 6 months (8%). The researchers highlight the need for policies to reduce the risk of closures to safeguard patient health.
Research provides insights on immune responses of kidney transplant recipients following SARS-CoV-2 infection. The study found that production of IgG antibodies against the virus was delayed in these individuals, but their IgM and IgA responses were similar to those observed in non-transplant individuals.
A recent analysis found a large increase in deaths among susceptible individuals, including minorities, due to COVID-19. The study highlights the vulnerability of kidney transplant recipients and those with kidney failure to severe illness from the virus.
The NKF-ASN Task Force recommends adopting a new eGFR 2021 CKD-EPI creatinine equation to estimate kidney function without a race variable. This new approach may alter the stage of kidney diseases in some people, emphasizing the importance of patient education and consultation with healthcare professionals.
A study found that many family members of patients with kidney failure on chronic dialysis lack a clear understanding of their end-of-life wishes. Despite having spoken with the patient about treatment preferences, fewer than one-third had discussed specific aspects of care, such as hospice or mechanical ventilation.
A study found that PAM scores were associated with lower health literacy and higher levels of depression and anxiety, but not with missed dialysis sessions or weight gain. The measurement may be picking up on other issues known to interfere with engaged care.
A recent study found that weight fluctuations are associated with higher risks of cardiovascular-related problems and early death in adults with chronic kidney disease. The study included 84,636 patients with CKD who were listed in a national health screening database in South Korea.
A recent clinical trial found that vitamin D supplementation had no significant effects on kidney outcomes in adults with pre-diabetes. However, among those not taking any vitamin D, the supplement was associated with a lower amount of urine protein over time, suggesting potential benefits for kidney health.