Evolución de parámetros bioquímicos nutricionales en pacientes de hemodiálisis durante un año de seguimiento

Current high survival in hemodialysis patients (52% at 5 years) have made the chronic manifestations to emerge such as the high hyponutrition prevalence of these patients, as well as the importance of the nutritional status in their morbimortality. The reason for protein-caloric hyponutrition is multifactorial, although chronic inflammatory conditions associated to the dialysis technique are becoming more and more relevant. The variations in several nutritional biochemical parameters (total proteins, plasma albumin, transferrin, and total cholesterol) have been assessed in 73 hemodialysis patients for one year. The mean age of the patients was 53.3 +/- 18.69 years (43 males and 30 females). The average on hemodialysis program was 43 +/- 33 months, with a mean session duration of 246 +/- 24 minutes, and mean hemodialysis dose administered of 1.37 +/- 0.27 (KT/V) (second generation Daurgidas). A decrease in all the biochemical parameters assessed has been observed, with statistically significant differences: total proteins (p < 0.001), albumin (p < 0.00001), total cholesterol (p < 0.05), and transferrin (p < 0.01). The evolution of the nutritional biochemical parameters assessed showed an important nutritional deterioration of the patients remaining stable with the therapy.

Resistencia de la hiperhomocisteinemia del paciente renal al tratamiento con dosis suprafisiológicas de ácido fólico parenteral

Hemodialysis patients present an increase in plasma homocysteine (Hcy) due to methylation impairment caused by uremia and the deficiency of the co-factors needed (vitamin B, folic acid). This correlates with a more common development of premature vascular disease. There is no consensus on the therapy, with a poor response to oral administration of conventional doses of folic acid. In this work, we assessed the response of hyperhomocysteinemia in 73 regular hemodialysis patients after the administration of 50 mg of parenteral folinic acid for 18 months. Plasma homocysteine of the patients at the time of the study beginning presented mean values of 22.67 (micromol/L). During the first year of supplementation the mean value was kept at 20 micromol/L. From the first year to the end of the 18-months observation period the mean homocysteine levels were 19.58 micromol/L. Although we found a clear trend towards a decrease in plasma homocysteine levels during the treatment period, there were no significant differences. Homocysteine levels did not come back to normal in none of the patients treated.

Improving anemia management with less frequently dosed erythropoiesis stimulating agents

Introduction and Aims: The process of delivering erythropoiesis stimulating agents (ESAs) to hemodialysis patients (HD) is complex. Many European countries are requiring centers to document this process. To date, there has not been any comprehensive description of the operational aspects of ESA delivery in Europe. The objective of the Mercurius study was to describe the entire process of ESA delivery in dialysis centers. In addition, we explored the benefits of less frequent dosing. Methods: A conceptual model was developed to classify the sub-processes in the pharmacy, dialysis unit, waste unit, and back office. Within each dialysis unit activities associated with dose determination, ordering procedures, receipt and storage of ESAs, and ESA administration were measured. Within the pharmacy, ordering from supplier, receiving and storing, and delivering ESA to the dialysis unit were measured. The amount of time and materials associated with waste disposal and back office activities were also observed. We also evaluated the impact of less frequent dosing on the resources required to perform anemia management for HD patients. Structured interviews with staff were used to develop a comprehensive list of processes, sub-processes, and activities that are routinely followed to order, register, administer, and dispose of waste associated with ESAs. Each activity was evaluated to determine if less frequent dosing influenced the amount of resources required. A model was developed to estimate the change in resources consumed using less frequent dosing regimens. Results: Eight centers from 5 European countries (Belgium, France, Italy, Sweden, and Switzerland) participated in the study. The number of HD patients in each center ranged from 42 to 707 (mean=175). Across all of the centers, patients received a variety of dosing regimens (eg, TIW, BIW, QW and Q2W). The mean (±SD) time spent for the pharmacy to order an ESA from the supplier was 6.1 (±8.7) minutes; time spent in the dialysis unit and pharmacy for receiving and storing ESPs was 5.3 (±5.3) and 10.0 (±10.9) minutes, respectively; and time spent administering each injection was 6.4 (±6.5) minutes. Switching from current dosing practices to Q2W could decrease the mean number of syringes used from 12,420 to 5,085 per year. We estimate a reduction in the number of disinfective tissues and liquids of 58% and 71%, respectively by switching from current practice to dosing ESAs Q2W. Conclusions: There was significant variation in the time that it takes to perform routine ESA activities. We estimate that a reduction in resources required to manage anemia can be obtained by reducing the frequency of administration from the current mix of ESAs. These resources could be redeployed for patient care.

Estudio del síndrome metabólico y de la obesidad en pacientes en hemodiálisis.

INTRODUCTION: The metabolic syndrome (MS) consists of a set of clinical and biochemical changes. It is very common among chronic hemodialysis patients, being the leading cause of death in these patients, 44% of all patients undergoing this therapy. AIMS: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of MS and risk factors associated with its development, as well as the prevalence of obesity in HD patients. METHODS: This study has followed 90 patients of both sexes with chronic renal failure (CRF) who were treated with hemodialysis periodically in our unit for ten years. All patients were performed quarterly measurements of plasma albumin (A1b) and other biochemical analysis; besides, they underwent some anthropometric measurements like weight, height and body mass index (BMI). This was calculated using weight / size2 formula and grouped in BMI values according to WHO criteria. The data concerning hypertension and glucose were also considered. RESULTS: The prevalence of MS was 25% and obesity was presented as follows: 45% with type I overweight; 30.8% with type II overweight and 12 patients (2%) were obese. Being statistically significant as risk factors, BMI, overweight, triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol as well as hypertension and elevated glucose levels were obtained. CONCLUSIONS: The metabolic syndrome compromises the patient survival causing a high prevalence in these patients. The principal risk factors in MS are monitoring weight, BMI, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, hypertension and diabetes.

Estudio de la albúmina sérica y del índice de masa corporal como marcadores nutricionales en pacientes en hemodiálisis.

Background: Protein calorie malnutrition as well as systemic inflammation and metabolic disorders are common among patients with chronic renal failure undergoing renal replacement therapy (haemodialysis), which contributes to its morbidity and mortality. Aims: The aims of this work was to evaluate the nutritional status of patients in a hemodialysis treatment through the assessment of biochemical parameters nutritional as albumin, and anthropometric parameters of body mass index during ten years of follow up. Methods: In this work has been followed 90 patients of both sexes with chronic kidney disease who were treated with hemodialysis regularly on our unit for ten years. All patients were conducted quarterly measurements of plasma albumin (Alb), and other biochemical determinations, and anthropometric measurements of height, weight and body mass index calculated by the formula weight/height², grouped n BMI < 23 kg/m2 and albumin levels <3.8 g/dl according to the consensus of the panel of experts of the International Society for renal Nutrition and metabolism. Results: During the 10 years all patients showed a significant decline in the biochemical parameters and the albumin, change in BMI does not presented significant changes in relation to malnutrition. Conclusions: Malnutrition in patients on dialysis is a fact patent, BMI does not correspond with the biochemical parameters were observed, for what nutritional impairment in these patients is mainly expressed by serum albumin.

Phenotypes influencing low physical activity in maintenance dialysis.

OBJECTIVE: The "Pas à Pas" initiative aimed at evaluating the weekly physical activity (PA) and its determinants in a large cohort of dialysis patients. SETTING: Physical inactivity is a risk factor for mortality in maintenance dialysis patients and is still poorly documented in this population. DESIGN: A prospective national epidemiological study was performed. SUBJECTS: A total of 1,163 patients on maintenance dialysis (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis) were included. INTERVENTION AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: PA was recorded during seven consecutive days using a pedometer to measure daily step numbers. RESULTS: Median age was 63 years (Q1 51-Q3 75). Sixty-three percent were sedentary (<5000 steps/day) with a median of 3,688 steps/day (1,866-6,271)]. PA level was similar between hemodialysis patients and those on peritoneal dialysis (3,693 steps [1,896-6,307] vs. 3,320 [1,478-5,926], P = .33). In hemodialysis patients, PA was lower on dialysis days compared with nondialysis days (2,912 [1,439-5,232] vs. 4,054 [2,136-7,108], respectively, P < .01). PA gradually decreased with age, 57% being sedentary between 50 and 65 years and 83% of patients after 80 years. Beyond this age effect, we identified, for the first time, specific phenotypes of patients with lower PA, such as inflammation, cardiovascular disease, protein energy wasting, obesity, and diabetes. By contrast, previous kidney transplantation and a higher muscle mass were associated with higher PA. CONCLUSIONS: Dialysis patients present a very low level of PA with high sedentary. Acting on patient's modifiable phenotypes may help to increase PA to improve morbidity, mortality, and quality of life.

Transcatheter aortic "valve-in-valve" for degenerated bioprostheses: Choosing the right TAVI valve.

Bioprosthetic aortic valve replacement is the treatment of choice for patients over 65 years of age suffering from aortic valve disease, and for younger patients with contraindications to long-lasting anticoagulation. Despite several technical improvements to reduce the risk of structural valve degeneration (SVD), the risk of SVD still exists, in particular for hemodialysis patients and patients under 60 years of age at surgery. Redo open heart surgery is the treatment of choice in case of valve degeneration, but caries a higher surgical risk when elderly patients with comorbidities are concerned. In the last 5 years, transcatheter aortic "valve-in-valve" procedures represent a valid alternative to standard redo surgery in selected patients. Valve-in-valve procedures represent a less invasive approach in high-risk patients and the published results are very encouraging. Technical success rates of 100% have been reported, as have the absence of paravalvular leaks, acceptable trans-valvular gradients (depending on the size of the original bioprosthesis), and low complication rates. The current article focuses on choosing the correct transcutaneous valve to match the patient's existing bioprosthesis for valve-in-valve procedures.

L'endocardite en pratique ambulatoire [Infective endocarditis and outpatient practice].

The incidence of infectious endocarditis is fairly stable over the past decades. It is estimated at roughly 3-4 case per patient-year. However, as a consequence of medical progress, Staphylococcus aureus endocarditis has become more prevalent. This is particularly true for health-care associated endocarditis, especially in iv-drug abusers or hemodialysis patients. Mortality (15-20% of patients in the last series) remains high. About 50% of patients undergo surgical treatment, whereas outpatient therapy is more and more frequent for highly selected subgroups of patients without complications and infected with low-risk organims. The present paper reviews in detail the epidemiology of infective endocarditis and discuss in detail the different out-patients therapies.

Distribution of HCV genotypes among different exposure categories in Brazil

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is widespread and responsible for more than 60% of chronic hepatitis cases. HCV presents a genetic variability which has led to viral classification into at least 6 genotypes and a series of subtypes. These variants present characteristic geographical distribution, but their association with different responses to treatment with interferon and severity of disease still remains controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate the patterns of distribution of HCV genotypes among different exposure categories in Brazil. Two hundred and fifty anti-HCV positive samples were submitted to HCV-RNA detection by RT-PCR and their genotype was determined by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis. In addition, the genotype/subtype of 60 samples was also determined by a reverse hybridization assay. HCV 1 was the most prevalent (72.0%), followed by type 3 (25.3%), HCV 2 (2.0%) and HCV 4 (0.7%). The HCV genotype distribution varied among the different exposure categories, with HCV 1 being more frequent among blood donors, hemophiliacs and hemodialysis patients. A high frequency of HCV 3 was observed in cirrhotic patients, blood donors from the South of Brazil and injecting drug users (IDUs). The general distribution of the HCV genotype in Brazil is similar to that in other regions of the world.

Report of four cases of Bardet-Biedl syndrome

Bardet-Biedl syndrome is rare. Although its diagnosis depends on cardinal clinical manifestations which appear in childhood, we report four cases of Bardet-Biedl syndrome lately diagnosed in a dialysis center. Three cases were diagnosed in end-stage renal disease patients when they started maintenance hemodialysis, and one case was diagnosed through screening among hemodialysis patients' relatives. Although pediatricians have more opportunity to diagnose the syndrome, nephrologists are important during the treatment, since renal failure is the main cause of death among Bardet-Biedl syndrome patients. Moreover, late diagnosis of the syndrome among patients with end-stage renal disease can help to detect new cases through the screening among hemodialysis patients' relatives.

Efecto de la sustitución de la proteína de origen muscular sobre el fosfato sérico en pacientes en hemodiálisis

INTRODUCCION: La hiperfosfatemia se presenta en la mayoría de pacientes en hemodiálisis y contribuye a la mortalidad en esta población OBJETIVOS: Determinar si la sustitución del 50% de las proteínas de origen cárnico por proteínas de huevo causa una disminución significativa en el valor de fosforo en pacientes en Hemodiálisis. HIPOTESIS: La sustitución proteínas de origen cárnico por proteínas de huevo de induce una disminución significativa del fosforo en pacientes en hemodiálisis. MATERIALES Y METODOS: Se realizó un experimento que incluyó 25 pacientes a los cuales se les indicó disminuir a la mitad el consumo de carnes durante un mes; los días de hemodiálisis se administró luego de cada sesión una preparación de claras de huevo según el peso. Al empezar y al mes se determinó el valor de fosforo al igual que la albumina. ANALISIS ESTADISTICO: El desenlace principal fue la diferencia de medias de las mediciones de fósforo antes y después de la intervención; los desenlaces secundarios fueron la determinación de la diferencia de medias de albumina sérica y peso durante el período de estudio. La prueba de hipótesis se hizo mediante la prueba t para muestras pareadas. RESULTADOS: el fósforo en el análisis global no presentó diferencias. El valor de albúmina sérica disminuyo significativamente; en los pacientes con PTH menor de 400 se encontró disminución en el fósforo sérico y en el producto Calcio x Fósforo. CONCLUSIONES: la sustitución proteica logro una disminución de valores de fósforo sérico sin modificar la terapia dialítica e indujo una disminución estadísticamente significativa del valor de albúmina sérica sin impacto sobre el peso en la población global. PALABRAS CLAVE: hiperfosfatemia, hemodiálisis, sustitución proteica.

Efecto de ajuste del flujo dializante (Qd) sobre la eficacia en hemodialisis a pacientes de bajo peso

Introducción: Las guías KDOQI del 2006 utilizan patrón de adecuación de diálisis el Kt/V, donde V es volumen de distribución de la úrea, pacientes de bajo peso tienen menor agua corporal total, menor V, que podrían reducir el requerimiento de Qd sin afectar la eficiencia de la diálisis. Objetivo: Evaluar el efecto sobre la adecuación de hemodiálisis que produce la reducción del Qd en pacientes con peso menor o igual a 60 kg . Metodología: Se incluyeron pacientes con Enfermedad Renal crónica en hemodiálisis de forma regular con peso menor o igual a 60 Kg de la unidad renal, para evaluar dos períodos I y II, se continuaron los parámetros de la terapia, con descenso del Qd para el segundo período . Las variables fueron recolectadas de forma directa por los investigadores de la historia clínica . Los valores así obtenidos serían comparados mediante prueba t para variables relacionadas o pareadas, y significancia estadística de la prueba inferior a 0,05. Resultados: Se incluyeron 61 pacientes, el 60.7% sexo femenino, promedio de edad 57,3 años (DE 14,8). Edad promedio de los hombres 60,1 (DE 13,9) y de las mujeres fue de 55,9 (DE 15,4). No se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas para las variables Kt/V y Hb, con descenso significativo del P. (p 0.015) Conclusiones: Este estudio demuestra que se logra una adecuada terapia con Qd inferiores a los estándares tradicionales, con 400ml /min en pacientes de bajo peso, siempre y cuando se mantengan los demás parámetros de suplencia renal.

Efecto del flujo del dializado sobre la ganancia interdialítica en hemodiálisis crónica (Estudio FLUGAIN)

Objetivos: Determinar si existe diferencia en la ganancia interdialítica entre los pacientes al ser tratados con flujo de dializado (Qd) de 400 mL/min y 500 mL/min. Diseño: Se realizó un estudio de intervención, cruzado, aleatorizado, doble ciego en pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica en hemodiálisis para determinar diferencias en la ganancia de peso interdialítica entre los pacientes tratados con flujo de dializado (Qd) de 400 ml/min y 500 ml/min. Pacientes: Se analizaron datos de 46 pacientes en hemodiálisis crónica con Qd de 400 ml/min y 45 con Qd de 500 ml/min. Análisis: La prueba de hipótesis para evaluar diferencias en la ganancia interdialítica y las otras variables entre los grupos se realizó mediante la prueba T para muestras pareadas. Para el análisis de correlación se calculó el coeficiente de Pearson. Resultados: No hubo diferencia significativa en ganancia interdialítica usando Qd de 400 ml/min vs 500 ml/min (2.37 ± 0.7 vs 2.41 ± 0.6, p=0.41) ni en Kt/V (1.57 ± 0.25 vs 1.59 ± 0.23, p = 0.45), potasio (4.9 ± 1.1 vs 5.1 ± 1.0, p=0.45), fosforo (4.5 ± 1.2 vs 4.4 ± 1.2, p=0.56) o hemoglobina (11.3 ± 1.8 vs 11.3 ± 1.6, p=0.96). Conclusiones: En pacientes con peso ≤ 65 Kg el uso de Qd de 400 ml/min no se asocia con menor ganancia interdialítica de peso. No hay diferencia en la eficiencia de diálisis lo que sugiere que es una intervención segura a corto plazo.

Factores asociados a calidad de vida en pacientes de hemodiálisis incidentes y prevalentes

Introducción: la insuficiencia renal crónica IRC ha aumentado su prevalencia en los últimos años pasando de 44.7 pacientes por millón en 1993 a 538.46 pacientes por millón en 2010, los pacientes quienes reciben terapia de remplazo renal hemodiálisis en Colombia cada vez tienen una mayor sobrevida. El incremento de los pacientes y el incremento de la sobrevida nos enfocan a mejorar la calidad de vida de los años de diálisis. Metodología: se comparó la calidad de vida por medio del SF-36 en 154 pacientes con IRC estadio terminal en manejo con hemodiálisis, 77 pacientes incidentes y 77 pacientes prevalentes, pertenecientes a una unidad renal en Bogotá, Colombia. Resultados: se encontró una disminución de la calidad de vida en los componentes físicos (PCS) y metales (MCS) de los pacientes de hemodiálisis en ambos grupos. En el modelo de regresión logística la incapacidad laboral (p=0.05), el uso de catéter (p= 0,000), el bajo índice de masa corporal (p=0.021), la hipoalbuminemia (p=0,033) y la anemia (p=0,001) fueron factores determinantes en un 78,9% de baja calidad de vida de PCS en los pacientes incidentes con respecto a los prevalentes. En el MCS de los pacientes incidentes vs. Prevalentes se encontró la hipoalbuminemia (p=0.007), la anemia (p=0.001) y el acceso por catéter (p=0.001) como factores determinantes en un 70.6% de bajo MCS Conclusiones: la calidad de vida de los pacientes de diálisis se encuentra afectada con mayor repercusión en el grupo de los pacientes incidentes, se debe mejorar los aspectos nutricionales, hematológicos y de acceso vascular en este grupo.

Uso de la matriz extracelular como material para ingeniería de tejidos

Introducción: La evaluación de injertos vasculares de submucosa de intestino delgado para la regeneración de vasos sanguíneos ha producido una permeabilidad variable (0-100%) que ha sido concurrente con la variabilidad en las técnicas de fabricación. Metodología: Investigamos los efectos de fabricación en permeabilidad y regeneración en un diseño experimental de 22factorial que combino: 1) preservación (P) o remoción (R) de la capa estratum compactum del intestino, y 2) deshidratada (D) o hidratada (H), dentro de cuatro grupos de estudio (PD, RD, PH, RH). Los injertos fueron implantados en las Arterias Carótidas de porcinos (ID 4.5mm, N=4, 7d). Permeabilidad, trombogenicidad, reacción inflamatoria, vascularización, infiltración de fibroblastos, perfil de polarización de macrófagos y fuerza tensil biaxial fueron evaluadas. Resultados: Todos los injertos PD permanecieron permeables (4/4), pero tuvieron escasa vascularización e infiltración de fibroblastos. El grupo RD permaneció permeable (4/4), presentó una extensa vascularización e infiltración de fibroblastos, y el mayor número del fenotipo de macrófagos (M2) asociado a regeneración. El grupo RH presentó menor permeabilidad (3/4), una extensa vascularización e infiltración de fibroblastos, y un perfil dominante de M2. El grupo PH presentó el menor grado de permeabilidad, y a pesar de mayor infiltración celular que PD, exhibió un fenotipo de macrófagos dominante adverso. La elasticidad de los injertos R evolucionó de una manera similar a las Carótidas nativas (particularmente RD, mientras que los injertos P mantuvieron su rigidez inicial. Discusión: Concluimos que los parámetros de fabricación afectan drásticamente los resultados, siendo los injertos RD los que arrojaron mejores resultados.