Articles tagged with Nephropathies
A new smartphone app has been shown to improve medication adherence and safety in patients with chronic kidney disease. The eKidneyCare app sent monthly reminders for medication reviews and reduced medication discrepancies by 44% compared to a commercially available stand-alone app.
Researchers tested CER-001 on a human patient with familial LCAT deficiency, showing improved kidney function and stable vision for up to 11 months. The treatment was well-tolerated, but further studies are warranted to prevent kidney progression.
The new guidelines recommend bringing blood pressure levels down to 120 mmHg systolic in chronic kidney disease patients, benefiting nearly 24.5 million individuals. This update aims to improve blood pressure control among the one in seven people in the US with chronic kidney disease.
Researchers from Indiana University have identified key genetic changes in the interstitial kidney tissue of people with diabetes, which could lead to a revolutionary new genetic approach to treating kidney disease. The study found that important genes change when a scar forms on the interstitium, a previously undercharacterized part o...
A study analyzing 169 patients with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) in Ireland identified genetic changes in up to 83% of cases. The findings will help doctors identify patients who may require transplantation or dialysis, improving treatment options for this inherited condition.
A large population-based family study found that individuals with an affected first-degree relative have a threefold higher risk of chronic kidney disease. Genetic factors play an important role in modulating susceptibility to kidney disease.
Researchers found that stopping RAS inhibitors reduced the risk of requiring dialysis but increased the risk of cardiovascular events and death. The study suggests that doctors must carefully weigh the benefits and harms of these medications in patients with advanced CKD.
Research finds that goal striving stress is linked to progressive kidney disease in African Americans, with higher levels of stress increasing the risk. The study, published in the Journal of Investigative Medicine, suggests that traditional risk factors only partially explain this disparity.
Exposure to fine particulate air pollution is associated with a greater likelihood of chronic kidney disease. The risk is stronger in urban areas, males, younger adults, and those without comorbid diseases. Air pollution levels can be estimated using satellite-based information.
Half of patients with advanced CKD delay AVF creation, often starting with temporary vascular access despite education. Researchers found that beliefs about the value of vascular access predict intentions to prepare for hemodialysis and access outcomes.
A recent analysis of Geisinger Health System's electronic health records reveals chronic kidney disease as the leading risk factor for COVID-19-related hospitalization. The study found that patients with end-stage renal disease were 11 times more likely to be admitted to the hospital compared to those without kidney disease.
Starting RASi lowers KRT risk while maintaining similar cardiovascular risks as CCB in advanced CKD patients. This nationwide study suggests RASi may slow kidney disease progression and offer cardiovascular protection.
Finerenone reduced the risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and other negative cardiovascular events in patients with chronic kidney disease and Type 2 diabetes. The medication also reduced the rate of death, hospitalization for heart failure, and worsening kidney disease among these patients.
A novel diabetes medication, sotagliflozin, significantly reduces hospitalization for heart failure, heart attack, and stroke in patients with Type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. The study found a 26% decrease in cardiovascular deaths and hospitalizations.
Patients with chronic kidney disease can proactively manage their health by receiving tailored guidance on diet and lifestyle. Effective communication with doctors and strong family support are also crucial in empowering patients to take a more active role in their care. This study highlights the importance of clearer information, bett...
A Baylor College of Medicine team found nickel toxicity as the underlying cause of the devastating epidemic of Mesoamerican Nephropathy (MeN) in Nicaraguan coastal communities. The study revealed low-dose exposure to nickel causes systemic inflammation, anemia, and kidney injury, progressing to chronic kidney disease in 90% of patients.
The new European consensus statement provides practical recommendations for diagnosing and treating osteoporosis in advanced stage CKD. The guidelines aim to reduce the care gap and promote proactive fragility fracture prevention in high-risk patients.
A new equation for estimating glomerular filtration rate (GFR) shows improved accuracy and precision compared to commonly used equations. The European Kidney Function Consortium's (EKFC) equation addresses limitations of existing methods and is suitable for a wide age range.
Researchers from Kanazawa University found that skipping breakfast and late dinner are associated with an increased risk of proteinuria, a key prognostic factor of CKD. Unhealthy dietary habits, including quick eating, were linked to the development of proteinuria despite no changes in body weight.
Combination therapy of verinurad and febuxostat significantly lowers urinary albumin excretion and uric acid levels in people with chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes. The treatment is generally well-tolerated, with minimal adverse events reported.
A research team discovered molecular processes in kidney cells that attract and feed COVID-19, making them a target for potential therapies. The study identified networks of molecules that result in higher levels of ACE2, a protein on the surface of kidney cells that aids in virus entry and activation.
A study found that online peer mentoring for individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) improves patient activation, which is positively correlated with various aspects of quality of life. Improved patient activation correlates with improvements in physical symptoms and burdens of kidney disease but not mental aspects.
A new study found that similar molecular processes are activated in diabetic kidney disease and COVID-19 patients, making them more susceptible to infection. The research suggests that diabetes primes kidney cells, which can lead to a severe immune response and kidney damage when combined with COVID-19.
ERA-EDTA has launched a series of e-seminars to apply recent trial findings to patient care. The e-seminars focus on topics like SGLT2 inhibitors and COVID-19, aiming to provide nephrology experts with insights into the benefits and risks of new treatments.
Children with chronic kidney disease experience prolonged hospital stays (30% longer) and increased hospital expenses ($8,755 vs. $5,016). They also have a higher risk of in-hospital mortality, with a 50% increase compared to other chronic conditions.
Researchers found that using the race multiplier correction factor for Black patients with chronic kidney disease can lead to delayed referrals and critical conversations about dialysis. Removing this factor could reclassify up to one-third of Black patients to a more severe stage of CKD.
Researchers developed a risk-scoring calculation that adds blood and urine measures of kidney disease to the current standard method for assessing cardiovascular disease risk. The study found that adding these measures can result in large increases in cardiovascular disease-risk estimates among patients with severe kidney disease.
A study of US hospitals found that children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) experience longer hospital stays and incur higher healthcare expenses due to the complexity of their medical needs. Further investigation is needed to understand the healthcare needs of this population.
Two newer diabetes medications can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, cardiovascular events, and end-stage kidney disease. They also lower blood pressure and slow chronic kidney disease progression.
A recent study found that being physically active can significantly reduce the risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD). The study, which followed over 15,000 middle-aged adults for 24 years, showed that even moderate physical activity can lower the risk of CKD by up to 11%.
Researchers developed a tailored education system called 'Your Path to Transplant' that increases patient knowledge and readiness to pursue kidney transplant. The program, tested on over 800 patients, showed significant improvements in transplant preparedness and living donor transplant rates.
A large-scale clinical trial has shown that lanthanum carbonate does not reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease developing in patients with chronic kidney disease. High phosphate levels are a common problem in kidney disease and linked to cardiovascular disease, but the study found no benefit from the medication.
A systematic review of over 100 studies found that a more vegetable-rich diet, higher potassium intake, and reduced salt consumption can lower the risk of chronic kidney disease. Adhering to these recommendations could reduce the risk by 14-22%.
A 25-year analysis of PGT for kidney diseases in the Netherlands shows that 65% of couples with at least one successful cycle experienced live births without kidney disease. The study highlights the importance of counseling patients on their reproductive options to make informed choices.
Researchers at Children's Hospital Los Angeles are investigating cellular damage and repair in chronic kidney disease and Alport syndrome. Their studies aim to identify molecules that trigger injury in kidney cells, with potential applications for medications and treatments.
Obesity, as measured by body mass index and abdominal fat content, is associated with an increased risk of heart disease and progression of kidney disease in patients with chronic kidney disease. Lower physical fitness levels are also linked to a higher cardiovascular risk.
A decision support system within the EHR system significantly increased provider awareness of CKD among primary care providers. The study demonstrated that implementation of such a system can lead to improved processes of care, including blood pressure management and medication prescribing.
A large clinical trial, CKD-FIX, found that allopurinol does not prevent worsening of kidney disease. The study showed no difference in kidney function decline between the treatment and placebo groups.
Researchers analyzed EMPA-REG OUTCOME trial data to investigate impact of initial 'eGFR dip' on kidney outcomes. Diuretic use and higher KDIGO risk category were predictive factors for 'eGFR dip', but no significant impact on risk reduction
Researchers have discovered a link between exposure to certain environmental chemicals and an increased risk of chronic kidney disease. The study analyzed data from 46,748 US adults and found that elevated levels of seven chemicals were associated with markers of kidney disease.
A nationwide intervention to replace regular salt with potassium-enriched salt substitutes in China could prevent nearly half a million cardiovascular deaths per year. The blood pressure lowering effects of salt substitution were estimated to prevent around 460,000 cardiovascular disease (CVD) deaths each year.
A study has uncovered a mechanism explaining how genetic mutations lead to nephrotic syndrome, a rare genetic kidney disorder. The researchers found that disruptions in the recycling of cell membranes cause abnormal kidney cell structure and function.
A study found housing insecurity is associated with a 3.2-fold higher odds of albuminuria, a sign of kidney disease, but not rapid kidney function decline. Housing insecurity was linked to delayed healthcare visits and compromised health in urban-dwelling adults.
Researchers found that African Americans with kidney disease have higher rates of uncontrolled blood pressure when measured at home. Participants with masked hypertension had worse physical functioning than those with controlled hypertension.
Studies have shown that chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients are more susceptible to salt-induced hypertension. A recent study published in Kidney International found a link between the immune system and salt sensitivity in CKD, with TNF-α triggering high blood pressure.
A recent study found that exposure to fine particulate matter is associated with a higher degree of albuminuria and a higher risk of developing chronic kidney disease. The study suggests that efforts to improve air quality may yield health benefits, including reducing rates of chronic kidney disease.
Researchers have discovered that contaminated groundwater in Balkan villages is a significant source of human exposure to aristolochic acids, potent kidney toxins. The discovery highlights the urgent need for weed control measures to reduce the incidence of Balkan endemic nephropathy.
A comprehensive evaluation of existing quality metrics for kidney disease reveals that less than half are highly valid, with nearly half related to dialysis management. The study proposes refinements and new metrics to better reflect the spectrum of kidney care delivery, aiming to improve the accuracy of quality measurement.
A new study reveals chronic kidney disease is a leading cause of death globally, resulting in an estimated 1.23 million deaths in 2017. The disease's impact varies widely across countries, with some nations experiencing rates nearly 15 times higher than others.
Researchers have successfully isolated kidney stem cells from urine, expressing markers similar to bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells and renal stem cell markers. The isolated cells can differentiate into various kidney cell types, including proximal- and distal-tubules and podocytes.
Researchers identified coronary microvascular dysfunction as a precursor to later heart disease and possible death in patients with chronic kidney disease. The study found that CMD was associated with abnormal mechanics of the left ventricle and clinical risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes.
A new study found that between 15-22 out of every 100 Indian patients with mild-to-moderate CKD had significant impairment in at least one domain of quality of life. Lower income, poor education, and female gender were associated with lower quality of life scores.
High levels of protein in urine shortly after an episode of acute kidney injury are associated with increased risk of kidney disease progression. The study suggests that measuring urine protein levels can help identify patients at highest risk and guide appropriate referrals to reduce adverse health outcomes.
A University of Tsukuba study reveals that histamine, a key factor in inflammation, can control the severity of cardiorenal syndrome in mice. Histamine agonist drug prevents further damage in a mouse model of cardiorenal dysfunction, showing protective changes in gene expression.
A recent study found that a significant proportion of children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are prescribed medications that may be toxic to their kidneys. Among the studied population, 71% of those with CKD and 50% without received at least one potentially nephrotoxic medication over an average follow-up period of 3.3 years.
The American Society of Nephrology has honored five individuals for their outstanding contributions to kidney disease research, education, and clinical practice. Mitchell Rosner received the Robert G. Narins Award for his work in education and teaching, while Toshiro Fujita was recognized for his groundbreaking research on hypertension.
An observational study of nearly 16,000 older adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) found that higher doses of the muscle relaxant baclofen were associated with a greater risk of hospitalization due to encephalopathy. The study suggests that patients with CKD may need closer monitoring when prescribed baclofen.
A new risk calculator tool predicts accurate five-year risk of chronic kidney disease based on variables like age, hypertension, and diabetes status. The tool enables healthcare providers to identify patients at high risk and benefit from preventive interventions.
A new study used data from over 5 million people to develop equations predicting the five-year risk of reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), a key indicator of chronic kidney disease. The findings can help identify individuals at increased risk and potentially prevent or manage the condition.
Researchers investigated the effect of vitamin D and omega-3 supplements on chronic kidney disease (CKD) development or progression in adults with type 2 diabetes. The study found no significant difference in CKD progression between supplementation groups.