Effects of Intensive Blood Pressure Lowering on Kidney Tubule Injury in CKD: A Longitudinal Subgroup Analysis in SPRINT

Advancing Guideline-Directed Medical Therapy in Heart Failure: Overcoming Challenges and Maximizing Benefits

The delayed titration of guideline-directed drug therapy (GDMT) is a complex event influenced by multiple factors that often result in poor prognosis for patients with heart failure (HF). Individualized adjustments in GDMT titration may be necessary based on patient characteristics, and every clinician is responsible for promptly initiating GDMT and titrating it appropriately within the patient's tolerance range. This review examines the current challenges in GDMT implementation and scrutinizes titration considerations within distinct subsets of HF patients, with the overarching goal of enhancing the adoption and effectiveness of GDMT. The authors also underscore the significance of establishing a novel management strategy that integrates cardiologists, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, and patients as a unified team that can contribute to the improved promotion and implementation of GDMT.

Changes in Natriuretic Peptide Levels and Subsequent Kidney Function Decline in SPRINT

RATIONALE & OBJECTIVE

Novel approaches to the assessment of kidney disease risk during hypertension treatment are needed because of the uncertainty of how intensive blood pressure (BP) lowering impacts kidney outcomes. We determined whether longitudinal N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) measurements during hypertension treatment are associated with kidney function decline.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective observational study.

SETTING & PARTICIPANTS

8,005 SPRINT (Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial) participants with NT-proBNP measurements at baseline and 1 year.

EXPOSURE

1-year change in NT-proBNP categorized as a ≥25% decrease, ≥25% increase, or <25% change (stable).

OUTCOME

Annualized change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and ≥30% decrease in eGFR.

ANALYTICAL APPROACH

Linear mixed-effect and logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association of changes in NT-proBNP with subsequent annualized change in eGFR and ≥30% decrease in eGFR, respectively. Analyses were stratified by baseline chronic kidney disease (CKD) status.

RESULTS

Compared with stable 1-year NT-proBNP levels, a ≥25% decrease in NT-proBNP was associated with a slower decrease in eGFR in participants with CKD (adjusted difference, 1.09%/y; 95% CI, 0.35-1.83) and without CKD (adjusted difference, 0.51%/y; 95% CI, 0.21-0.81; P = 0.4 for interaction). Meanwhile, a ≥25% increase in NT-proBNP in participants with CKD was associated with a faster decrease in eGFR (adjusted difference, -1.04%/y; 95% CI, -1.72 to -0.36) and risk of a ≥30% decrease in eGFR (adjusted odds ratio, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.06-1.96); associations were stronger in participants with CKD than in participants without CKD (P = 0.01 and P < 0.001 for interaction, respectively). Relationships were similar irrespective of the randomized BP arm in SPRINT (P > 0.2 for interactions).

LIMITATIONS

Persons with diabetes and proteinuria >1 g/d were excluded.

CONCLUSIONS

Changes in NT-proBNP during BP treatment are independently associated with subsequent kidney function decline, particularly in people with CKD. Future studies should assess whether routine NT-proBNP measurements may be useful in monitoring kidney risk during hypertension treatment.

PLAIN-LANGUAGE SUMMARY

N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is a biomarker in the blood that reflects mechanical stress on the heart. Measuring NT-proBNP may be helpful in assessing the risk of long-term losses of kidney function. In this study, we investigated the association of changes in NT-proBNP with subsequent kidney function among individuals with and without chronic kidney disease. We found that increases in NT-proBNP are associated with a faster rate of decline of kidney function, independent of baseline kidney measures. The associations were more pronounced in individuals with chronic kidney disease. Our results advance the notion of considering NT-proBNP as a dynamic tool for assessing kidney disease risk.

DISSECT: deep semi-supervised consistency regularization for accurate cell type fraction and gene expression estimation

Cell deconvolution is the estimation of cell type fractions and cell type-specific gene expression from mixed data. An unmet challenge in cell deconvolution is the scarcity of realistic training data and the domain shift often observed in synthetic training data. Here, we show that two novel deep neural networks with simultaneous consistency regularization of the target and training domains significantly improve deconvolution performance. Our algorithm, DISSECT, outperforms competing algorithms in cell fraction and gene expression estimation by up to 14 percentage points. DISSECT can be easily adapted to other biomedical data types, as exemplified by our proteomic deconvolution experiments.

Urinary biomarkers in kidney disease

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects many people worldwide and early diagnosis is essential for successful treatment and improved outcome. Unfortunately, current methods are insufficient especially for early disease detection. However, advances in the analytical methods for urinary biomarkers may provide a unique opportunity for diagnosis and management of CKD. This review explores evolving technology and highlights the importance of early marker detection in these patients.

APPROACH

A search strategy was set up using the terms CKD, biomarkers, and urine. The search included 53 studies comprising 37 biomarkers. The value of these biomarkers for CKD are based on their ability to diagnose CKD, monitor progression, assess mortality and nephrotoxicity.

RESULTS

KIM-1 was the best marker for diagnosis as it increased with the development of incident CKD. DKK3 increased in patients with declining eGFR, whereas UMOD decreased in those with declining kidney function. Unfortunately, none fulfilled all criteria to adequately assess mortality and nephrotoxicity.

CONCLUSION

New developments in the field of urinalysis using smart toilets may open several possibilities for urinary biomarkers. This review explored which biomarkers could be used for CKD disease detection and management.

Revisiting Hypertension Treatment in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease

Despite being the world's top risk factor for death and disability, hypertension awareness and control within the chronic kidney disease (CKD) population have decreased. This is particularly important considering the heightened severity and management challenges of hypertension in CKD patients, whose outcomes are often worse compared with persons with normal kidney function. Therefore, finding novel therapeutics to improve blood pressure control within this vulnerable group is paramount. Although medications that target the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system remain a mainstay for blood pressure control in most stages of CKD, we discuss novel approaches that may expand their use in advanced CKD. We also review newer tools for blood pressure management that have emerged in recent years, including aldosterone synthase inhibitors, endothelin receptor antagonists, and renal denervation. Overall, the future of hypertension management in CKD appears brighter, with a growing arsenal of tools and a deeper understanding of this complex disease.

Abrupt Decline in Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate after Initiating Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors Predicts Clinical Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGRUOUND

The initiation of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) typically leads to a reversible initial dip in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). The implications of this phenomenon on clinical outcomes are not well-defined.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library from inception to March 23, 2023 to identify randomized controlled trials and cohort studies comparing kidney and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with and without initial eGFR dip after initiating SGLT2i. Pooled estimates were calculated using random-effect meta-analysis.

RESULTS

We included seven studies in our analysis, which revealed that an initial eGFR dip following the initiation of SGLT2i was associated with less annual eGFR decline (mean difference, 0.64; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.437 to 0.843) regardless of baseline eGFR. The risk of major adverse kidney events was similar between the non-dipping and dipping groups but reduced in patients with a ≤10% eGFR dip (hazard ratio [HR], 0.915; 95% CI, 0.865 to 0.967). No significant differences were observed in the composite of hospitalized heart failure and cardiovascular death (HR, 0.824; 95% CI, 0.633 to 1.074), hospitalized heart failure (HR, 1.059; 95% CI, 0.574 to 1.952), or all-cause mortality (HR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.589 to 1.170). The risk of serious adverse events (AEs), discontinuation of SGLT2i due to AEs, kidney-related AEs, and volume depletion were similar between the two groups. Patients with >10% eGFR dip had increased risk of hyperkalemia compared to the non-dipping group.

CONCLUSION

Initial eGFR dip after initiating SGLT2i might be associated with less annual eGFR decline. There were no significant disparities in the risks of adverse cardiovascular outcomes between the dipping and non-dipping groups.

Association of Dip in eGFR With Clinical Outcomes in Unilateral Primary Aldosteronism Patients After Adrenalectomy

CONTEXT

Primary aldosteronism (PA) leads to kidney function deterioration after treatment, but the effects of the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) dip following adrenalectomy and its long-term implications are unclear.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to examine eGFR dip in patients with unilateral PA (uPA) after adrenalectomy and clarify their long-term prognosis.

METHODS

This multicenter prospective population-based cohort study, enrolled patients with uPA who underwent adrenalectomy. Patients were divided into 4 groups based on their eGFR dip ratio. Outcomes investigated included mortality, cardiovascular composite events, and major adverse kidney events (MAKEs).

RESULTS

Among 445 enrolled patients, those with an eGFR dip ratio worse than -30% (n = 74, 16.6%) were older, had higher blood pressure, higher aldosterone concentration, and lower serum potassium levels. During 5.0 ± 3.6 years of follow-up, 2.9% died, 14.6% had cardiovascular composite events, and 17.3% had MAKEs. The group with eGFR dip worse than -30% had a higher risk of MAKEs (P < .001), but no significant differences in mortality (P = .295) or new-onset cardiovascular composite outcomes (P = .373) were found. Multivariate analysis revealed that patients with an eGFR dip ratio worse than -30% were significantly associated with older age (odds ratio [OR], 1.04), preoperative eGFR (OR, 1.02), hypokalemia (OR, 0.45), preoperative systolic blood pressure (OR, 1.03), and plasma aldosterone concentration (OR, 0.99).

CONCLUSION

Within 5 years post adrenalectomy, 17.3% of patients had reduced kidney function. Notably, individuals with an eGFR dip ratio worse than -30% faced higher MAKE risks, underscoring the need to monitor kidney function in PA patients after surgery.

Urinary Biomarkers and Kidney Injury in VA NEPHRON-D: Phenotyping Acute Kidney Injury in Clinical Trials

RATIONALE & OBJECTIVE

Urinary biomarkers of injury, inflammation, and repair may help phenotype acute kidney injury (AKI) observed in clinical trials. We evaluated the differences in biomarkers between participants randomized to monotherapy or to combination renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) blockade in VA NEPHRON-D, where an increased proportion of observed AKI was acknowledged in the combination arm.

STUDY DESIGN

Longitudinal analysis.

SETTING & PARTICIPANTS

A substudy of the VA NEPHRON-D trial.

PREDICTOR

Primary exposure was the treatment arm (combination [RAAS inhibitor] vs monotherapy). AKI is used as a stratifying variable.

OUTCOME

Urinary biomarkers, including albumin, EGF (epidermal growth factor), MCP-1 (monocyte chemoattractant protein-1), YKL-40 (chitinase 3-like protein 1), and KIM-1 (kidney injury molecule-1).

ANALYTICAL APPROACH

Biomarkers measured at baseline and at 12 months in trial participants were compared between treatment groups and by AKI. AKI events occurring during hospitalization were predefined safety end points in the original trial. The results were included in a meta-analysis with other large chronic kidney disease trials to assess global trends in biomarker changes.

RESULTS

In 707 participants followed for a median of 2.2 years, AKI incidence was higher in the combination (20.7%) versus the monotherapy group (12.7%; relative risk [RR], 1.64 [95% CI, 1.16-2.30]). Compared with the monotherapy arm, in the combination arm the urine biomarkers at 12 months were either unchanged (MCP-1: RR, -3% [95% CI, -13% to 9%], Padj=0.8; KIM-1: RR, -10% [95% CI, -20% to 1%], Padj=0.2; EGF, RR-7% [95% CI, -12% to-1%], Padj=0.08) or lower (albuminuria: RR, -24% [95% CI, -37% to-8%], Padj=0.02; YKL: RR, -40% to-44% [95% CI, -58% to-25%], Padj<0.001). Pooled meta-analysis demonstrated reduced albuminuria in the intervention arm across 3 trials and similar trajectories in other biomarkers.

LIMITATIONS

Biomarker measurement was limited to 2 time points independent of AKI events.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the increased risk of serum creatinine-defined AKI, combination RAAS inhibitor therapy was associated with unchanged or decreased urinary biomarkers at 12 months. This suggests a possible role for kidney biomarkers to further characterize kidney injury in clinical trials.

PLAIN-LANGUAGE SUMMARY

The VA NEPHRON-D trial investigated inhibition of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) hormonal axis on kidney outcomes in a large population of diabetic chronic kidney disease patients. The trial was stopped early due to increased events of serum creatinine-defined acute kidney injury in the combination therapy arm. Urine biomarkers can serve as an adjunct to serum creatinine in identifying kidney injury. We found that urinary biomarkers in the combination therapy group were not associated with a pattern of harm and damage to the kidney, despite the increased number of kidney injury events in that group. This suggests that serum creatinine alone may be insufficient for defining kidney injury and supports further exploration of how other biomarkers might improve identification of kidney injury in clinical trials.

11. Chronic Kidney Disease and Risk Management: Standards of Care in Diabetes-2024

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) "Standards of Care in Diabetes" includes the ADA's current clinical practice recommendations and is intended to provide the components of diabetes care, general treatment goals and guidelines, and tools to evaluate quality of care. Members of the ADA Professional Practice Committee, an interprofessional expert committee, are responsible for updating the Standards of Care annually, or more frequently as warranted. For a detailed description of ADA standards, statements, and reports, as well as the evidence-grading system for ADA's clinical practice recommendations and a full list of Professional Practice Committee members, please refer to Introduction and Methodology. Readers who wish to comment on the Standards of Care are invited to do so at professional.diabetes.org/SOC.

The 2021 KDIGO blood pressure target and the progression of chronic kidney disease: Findings from KNOW-CKD

BACKGROUND

The 2021 Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) clinical practice guideline for the management of blood pressure (BP) in chronic kidney disease (CKD) recommends a target systolic BP of <120 mmHg as this target can provide cardiovascular benefits. However, it remains unclear whether implementing the new BP target could improve kidney outcomes.

METHODS

The association between the 2021 KDIGO BP target and CKD progression was examined and compared with the 2012 KDIGO BP target among 1724 participants included in the KoreaN Cohort Study for Outcomes in Patients With CKD. The main exposure was the BP status categorized according to the 2012 or 2021 KDIGO guideline: (1) controlled within the 2021 target, (2) controlled within the 2012 target only, and (3) above both targets. The primary outcome was a composite kidney outcome of ≥50% decline in the estimated glomerular filtration rate from baseline or the initiation of kidney replacement therapy during the follow-up period.

RESULTS

Composite kidney outcomes occurred in 650 (37.7%) participants during the 8078 person-years of follow-up (median, 4.9 years). The incidence rates of this outcome were 55, 66.5, and 116.4 per 1000 person-years in BP controlled within the 2021 and 2012 KDIGO targets, and BP above both targets, respectively. In the multivariable cause-specific hazard model, hazard ratios for the composite outcome were 0.76 (95% confidence interval (CI), 0.60-0.95) for BP controlled within the 2021 target and 1.36 (95% CI, 1.13-1.64) for BP above both targets, compared with BP controlled within 2012 target only.

CONCLUSION

The newly lowered BP target by the 2021 KDIGO guideline was associated with improved kidney outcome compared with BP target by the 2012 KDIGO guideline.

Acute Declines in Estimated GFR in Blood Pressure Target Trials and Risk of Adverse Outcomes

RATIONALE & OBJECTIVE

Acute decreases in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) occur commonly during intensive blood pressure (BP) lowering. Our objective was to determine the relationship between acute decreases in estimated GFR and patient outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective observational study.

SETTING & PARTICIPANTS

Participants from 4 randomized controlled trials of intensive BP lowering in chronic kidney disease (Modification of Diet in Renal Disease study, African American Study of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial, and Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes trial).

EXPOSURE

A 4-category exposure defined by the level of acute decrease in estimated GFR (defined as>15% vs≤15% between baseline and month 4) and the randomization to intensive versus usual BP control.

OUTCOMES

Risk of kidney replacement therapy (primary outcome), defined as the need for dialysis or transplant except in the Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes trial, which defined its kidney outcome as a composite occurrence of serum creatinine concentration>3.3mg/dL, kidney failure, or kidney replacement therapy.

ANALYTICAL APPROACH

Multivariable Cox models.

RESULTS

We included 4,473 individuals randomly assigned to intensive versus usual BP control who had a total of 351 kidney outcomes and 304 deaths during median follow-up durations of 22 and 24 months, respectively. Approximately 14% of participants exhibited an acute decrease in eGFR, 11.0% in the usual BP treatment arm and 17.8% in the intensive BP treatment arm. In adjusted models, compared with a≤15% eGFR decrease in the usual BP arm, a≤15% eGFR decrease in the intensive BP control arm was associated with lower risk of the kidney outcome (HR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.57-0.98). In contrast, a>15% decrease in eGFR was associated with a higher risk of the kidney outcome in the usual (HR, 2.47; 95% CI, 1.80-3.38) and intensive BP treatment arms (HR, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.45-2.73) compared with a≤15% decrease in the usual BP arm.

LIMITATIONS

Observational study, residual confounding.

CONCLUSIONS

Decreases in eGFR of>15% in the usual and intensive BP treatment arms were associated with a higher risk of kidney outcomes compared with a≤15% decrease in the usual BP arm and may be a harbinger of adverse outcomes.

Effects of Intensive Systolic Blood Pressure Lowering on End-Stage Kidney Disease and Kidney Function Decline in Adults With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Post Hoc Analysis of ACCORD-BP and SPRINT

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects of intensive systolic blood pressure (SBP) lowering on the risk of major adverse kidney outcomes in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and/or prediabetes and cardiovascular risk factors.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This post hoc ACCORD-BP subgroup analysis included participants in the standard glucose-lowering arm with cardiovascular risk factors required for SPRINT eligibility. Cox proportional hazards regression models compared the hazard for the composite of dialysis, kidney transplant, sustained estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <15 mL/min/1.73 m2, serum creatinine >3.3 mg/dL, or a sustained eGFR decline ≥57% between the intensive (<120 mmHg) and standard (<140 mmHg) SBP-lowering arms.

RESULTS

The study cohort included 1,966 SPRINT-eligible ACCORD-BP participants (40% women) with a mean age of 63 years. The mean SBP achieved after randomization was 120 ± 14 and 134 ± 15 mmHg in the intensive and standard arms, respectively. The kidney composite outcome occurred at a rate of 9.5 and 7.2 events per 1,000 person-years in the intensive and standard BP arms (hazard ratio [HR] 1.35 [95% CI 0.85-2.14]; P = 0.20). Intensive SBP lowering did not affect the risk of moderately (HR 0.96 [95% CI 0.76-1.20]) or severely (HR 0.92 [95% CI 0.66-1.28]) increased albuminuria. Including SPRINT participants with prediabetes in the cohort did not change the overall results.

CONCLUSIONS

This post hoc subgroup analysis suggests that intensive SBP lowering does not increase the risk of major adverse kidney events in individuals with T2DM and cardiovascular risk factors.

[Blood pressure goals in chronic kidney disease : What is the optimal blood pressure for inhibition of progression and risk reduction?]

Well-controlled blood pressure is an essential factor in inhibiting the progression of renal failure and also in controlling cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. For decades there has been an intensive search for the optimal blood pressure target values in order to reduce the progression of renal insufficiency to a physiological level as far as possible. In the last few decades, very different target blood pressure values have been defined, which time and again contribute more to confusion than clarity in everyday clinical practice. The present work considers the relevant guidelines; it analyzes the basis on which the sometimes widely varying guidelines were created. All guidelines agree that blood pressure control with a target of less than 140 mm Hg systolic should be achieved in patients with impaired renal function. The European guidelines recommend aiming for a target of 130-140 mm Hg systolic. The American guidelines go one step further and specify a systolic blood pressure target of less than 130 mm Hg. The Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) organization is even more ambitious. It recommends a blood pressure target of less than 120 mm Hg, whereby in contrast to the European and American guidelines, the level of evidence required in the guidelines is considered to be very weak and the goals should also be achieved if automated, standardized blood pressure measurement is carried out, which is rarely available in everyday practice and may not be feasible. The present overview discusses the arguments for lowering blood pressure with different goals and presents the evidence. Of course, the blood pressure goals in the presence or absence of albuminuria should also be considered.

Markers of Kidney Tubular Function Deteriorate While Those of Kidney Tubule Health Improve in Primary Aldosteronism After Targeted Treatments

Background Targeted treatment with mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) or adrenalectomy in patients with primary aldosteronism (PA) causes a decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate; however, the associated simultaneous changes in biomarkers of kidney tubule health still remain unclear. Methods and Results We matched 104 patients with newly diagnosed unilateral PA who underwent adrenalectomy with 104 patients with unilateral PA who were treated with MRAs, 104 patients with bilateral PA treated with MRAs, and 104 patients with essential hypertension who served as controls. Functional biomarkers were measured before the targeted treatment and 1 year after treatment, including serum markers of kidney function (cystatin C, creatinine), urinary markers of proximal renal tubular damage (L-FABP [liver-type fatty-acid binding protein], KIM-1 [kidney injury molecule-1]), serum markers of kidney tubular reserve and mineral metabolism (intact parathyroid hormone), and proteinuria. Compared with the patients with essential hypertension, the patients with PA had higher pretreatment serum intact parathyroid hormone and urinary creatinine-corrected parameters, including L-FABP, KIM-1, and albumin. The patients with essential hypertension and with PA had similar cystatin C levels. After treatment with MRAs or adrenalectomy of unilateral PA and MRAs of bilateral PA, the patients with PA had increased serum cystatin C and decreased urinary L-FABP/creatinine, KIM-1/creatinine, creatinine-based estimated glomerular filtration rate, intact parathyroid hormone, and proteinuria (all P<0.05). In multivariable regression models, a higher urinary L-FABP/creatinine ratio and older age were significantly correlated with the occurrence of kidney failure (estimated glomerular filtration rate dip ≥30%) in the patients with PA after targeted treatment. Conclusions Compared with the matched patients with essential hypertension, the incident patients with PA at diagnosis had higher levels of several biomarkers, including markers of kidney damage, tubular reserve/mineral metabolism, and proteinuria. Functional kidney failure in the patients with PA after treatment could be predicted by a higher baseline urinary L-FABP/creatinine ratio and older age. After targeted treatments in the patients with bilateral or unilateral PA, these biomarkers of kidney tubule health were restored, but creatinine-based estimated glomerular filtration rate declined, which may therefore reflect hemodynamic changes rather than intrinsic damage to kidney tubular cells.

Trends in using of antihypertensive medication among US CKD adults, NHANES 2001-2018

Objective

Blood pressure (BP) control rates among adult patients taking antihypertensive medications in the United States have not improved over the last decade. Many CKD adults require more than one class of antihypertensive agent to reach the BP target recommended by the guidelines. However, no study has quantified the proportion of adult CKD patients taking antihypertensive medication who are on monotherapy or combination therapy.

Methods

National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data during 2001-2018 was used, including adults with CKD taking antihypertensive medication (age ≥ 20 years, n = 4,453). BP control rates were investigated under the BP targets recommended by the 2021 KDIGO, the 2012 KDIGO, and the 2017 ACC/AHA guidelines.

Results

The percentages of uncontrolled BP among US adults with CKD taking antihypertensive medication were 81.4% in 2001-2006 and 78.2% in 2013-2018. The proportion of monotherapy of antihypertensive regimen were 38.6, 33.3, and 34.6% from 2001 to 2006, 2007-2012, and 2013-2018, with no obvious difference. Similarly, there was no significant change in percentages of dual-therapy, triple-therapy, and quadruple-therapy. Although proportion of CKD adults not treated with ACEi/ARB decreased from 43.5% in 2001-2006 to 32.7% in 2013-2018, treatment of ACEi/ARB among patients with ACR > 300 mg/g had no significant change.

Conclusion

The BP control rates among US adult CKD patients taking antihypertensive medications have not improved from 2001 to 2018. Mono-therapy accounted for about one third of adult CKD patients taking antihypertensive medication and not changed. Increasing antihypertensive medication combination therapy may help improve BP control in CKD adults in the United States.

Current status of the rapid decline in renal function due to diabetes mellitus and its associated factors: analysis using the National Database of Health Checkups in Japan

The increasing number of patients undergoing dialysis due to diabetes mellitus (DM) is causing serious economic problems, and its reduction is an urgent policy issue in developed countries, including Japan. We aimed to assess the association between the annual rapid decline in renal function and health checkup measures, including blood pressure, to identify health guidance targets for preventing diabetic nephropathy (DN) and diabetic kidney disease (DKD) among individuals in a medical checkup system ("Tokuteikenshin" program) in 2018. This longitudinal analysis included 3,673,829 individuals who participated in the "Tokuteikenshin" program in 2018, had hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels ≥5.6%, were available for follow-up, and underwent estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) evaluation. We estimated the incidence of the relative annual decrease in eGFR ≥10% per 1000 person-years and odds ratios to evaluate the rapid decline in renal function and determine health guidance goals and their role in preventing DN and DKD. Overall, 20.83% of patients with DM had a rapid decline in renal function within the observation period. A rapid decline in renal function was associated with high systolic blood pressure, poor or strict DM control, increased urinary protein excretion, and decreased blood hemoglobin levels. The incidence of rapid decline in renal function is higher in DM, and appropriate systolic blood pressure and glycemic control are important to prevent the progression to DN or DKD. Our findings will be useful for researchers, clinicians, and other public health care members in establishing effective health guidance and guidelines for CKD prevention.

Association of Beta-2 Microglobulin with Stroke and All-Cause Mortality in Adults Aged ≥40 in U.S.: NHANES III

Background

Stroke is the predominant cause of death worldwide. We aimed to investigate the association of serum beta-2 microglobulin ( β 2M) concentrations with risk of stroke and all-cause mortalities in a cohort study.

Methods

Overall, 4914 U.S. adults (mean age = 63.0 years, 44.3% male) were recruited from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES Ⅲ). During a median follow-up of 19.4 years, 254 stroke deaths and 3415 all-cause deaths were identified by the National Center for Health Statistics. The associations of β 2M with stroke and all-cause mortalities were investigated by using weighted Cox proportional hazard regression models.

Results

β 2M was positively associated with stroke and all-cause mortality in unadjusted models and multivariable-adjusted models. The multivariable HR (95% CI) for stroke mortality in Q5 VS Q1 of serum β 2M concentrations was 3.45 (1.33-8.91; p for trend = 0.001) and that for all-cause mortality was 3.95 (3.05-5.12; p for trend < 0.001). In subgroup analyses, the association of β 2M and stroke mortality did not vary by different levels of sociodemographic and general stroke risk factors (p interaction > 0.05). In addition, the magnitude of positive association between β 2M with all-cause mortality did vary by age, ratio of family income to poverty, smoking status, and history of hypertensive (p interaction < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that support that β 2M may be a marker of stroke and all-cause mortality, which provides a new perspective for the study of cerebrovascular health and long-term survival in the future.

11. Chronic Kidney Disease and Risk Management: Standards of Care in Diabetes-2023

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) "Standards of Care in Diabetes" includes the ADA's current clinical practice recommendations and is intended to provide the components of diabetes care, general treatment goals and guidelines, and tools to evaluate quality of care. Members of the ADA Professional Practice Committee, a multidisciplinary expert committee, are responsible for updating the Standards of Care annually, or more frequently as warranted. For a detailed description of ADA standards, statements, and reports, as well as the evidence-grading system for ADA's clinical practice recommendations and a full list of Professional Practice Committee members, please refer to Introduction and Methodology. Readers who wish to comment on the Standards of Care are invited to do so at professional.diabetes.org/SOC.

Clinical Risk Factors For Kidney Tubule Biomarker Abnormalities Among Hypertensive Adults With Reduced eGFR in the SPRINT Trial

BACKGROUND

Urine biomarkers of kidney tubule health may distinguish aspects of kidney damage that cannot be captured by current glomerular measures. Associations of clinical risk factors with specific kidney tubule biomarkers have not been evaluated in detail.

METHODS

We performed a cross-sectional study in the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial among 2,436 participants with a baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 ml/min/1.73 m2. Associations between demographic and clinical characteristics with urine biomarkers of kidney tubule health were evaluated using simultaneous multivariable linear regression of selected variables.

RESULTS

Each standard deviation higher age (9 years) was associated with 13% higher levels of chitinase-3-like protein-1 (YKL-40), indicating higher levels of tubulointerstitial inflammation and repair. Men had 31% higher levels of alpha-1 microglobulin and 16% higher levels of beta-2 microglobulin, reflecting worse tubule resorptive function. Black race was associated with significantly higher levels of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (12%) and lower kidney injury molecule-1 (26%) and uromodulin (22%). Each standard deviation (SD) higher systolic blood pressure (SBP) (16 mmHg) was associated with 10% higher beta-2 microglobulin and 10% higher alpha-1 microglobulin, reflecting lower tubule resorptive function.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical and demographic characteristics, such as race, sex, and elevated SBP, are associated with unique profiles of tubular damage, which could reflect under-recognized patterns of kidney tubule disease among persons with decreased eGFR.

Determining the Relationship Between Blood Pressure, Kidney Function, and Chronic Kidney Disease: Insights From Genetic Epidemiology

BACKGROUND

It is well established that decreased kidney function can increase blood pressure (BP), but it is unproven whether moderately elevated BP causes chronic kidney disease (CKD) or glomerular hyperfiltration.

METHODS

311 119 White British UK Biobank participants were included in logistic regression analyses to estimate the odds of CKD (defined as long-term kidney replacement therapy, estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR]< 60mL/min/1.73m², or urinary albumin:creatinine ratio ≥3 mg/mmol) associated with higher genetically predicted BP using genetic risk scores comprising 219 systolic and 223 diastolic BP loci. Analyses estimating associations with clinical categories of eGFR and urinary albumin:creatinine ratio were also conducted, with an eGFR ≥120 mL (min·1.73m²) considered evidence of glomerular hyperfiltration.

RESULTS

21 623 participants had CKD: 7781 with reduced eGFR and 15 500 with albuminuria. 1828 participants had an eGFR ≥120 mL/min/1.73m². Each genetically predicted 10 mmHg higher systolic BP and 5 mmHg higher diastolic BP were associated with a 37% (95% CI, 1.29-1.45) and 19% (1.14-1.25) higher odds of CKD, respectively. Associations were evident for both the reduced eGFR and albuminuria components of the CKD outcome. The odds of hyperfiltration (versus an eGFR ≥60 and <90 mL/min/1.73m² were 49% higher (95% CI, 1.21-1.84) for each genetically predicted 10 mmHg higher systolic BP. Associations with CKD and hyperfiltration were similar irrespective of preexisting diabetes, vascular disease, or different levels of adiposity.

CONCLUSIONS

In this general population, genetic epidemiological evidence supports a causal role of life-long differences in BP for decreased kidney function, glomerular hyperfiltration, and albuminuria. Physiological autoregulation may not afford complete renal protection against the moderate BP elevations.

[New aspects of pharmacological nephroprotection]

Current estimates forecast that chronic kidney diseases will be the fifth most common cause of death worldwide by 2040. The prevalence of chronic renal diseases increases with age and, in many countries, affects patients with overweight, diabetes and hypertension. The primary objective of the treatment of chronic renal diseases is the delay of disease progression. Established markers for the deterioration of renal function include glomerular filtration rate and albuminuria. Pharmacological blockade of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) by angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) represents the cornerstone of drug-related nephroprotection. Current Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines recommend the use of ACEI or ARB for diabetic and non-diabetic patients with moderate and heavy albuminuria. In recent years, sodium-glucose linked transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT-2 ) have been established in the field of cardio- and nephroprotection. Their protective effects occur regardless of blood sugar reduction. Current data suggest that the use of SGLT‑2 inhibitors will soon be part of therapy in non-diabetic kidney disease. One of the first drugs in this substance class, dapagliflozin, is already approved in Germany for the treatment of chronic renal diseases in adults with and without type 2 diabetes.

Renin-Angiotensin System Inhibitors in Patients With COVID-19: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials Led by the International Society of Hypertension

Background

Published randomized controlled trials are underpowered for binary clinical end points to assess the safety and efficacy of renin‐angiotensin system inhibitors (RASi) in adults with COVID‐19. We therefore performed a meta‐analysis to assess the safety and efficacy of RASi in adults with COVID‐19.

Methods and Results

MEDLINE, EMBASE, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the Cochrane Controlled Trial Register were searched for randomized controlled trials that randomly assigned patients with COVID‐19 to RASi continuation/commencement versus no RASi therapy. The primary outcome was all‐cause mortality at ≤30 days. A total of 14 randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria and enrolled 1838 participants (aged 59 years, 58% men, mean follow‐up 26 days). Of the trials, 11 contributed data. We found no effect of RASi versus control on all‐cause mortality (7.2% versus 7.5%; relative risk [RR], 0.95; [95% CI, 0.69–1.30]) either overall or in subgroups defined by COVID‐19 severity or trial type. Network meta‐analysis identified no difference between angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors versus angiotensin II receptor blockers. RASi users had a nonsignificant reduction in acute myocardial infarction (2.1% versus 3.6%; RR, 0.59; [95% CI, 0.33–1.06]), but increased risk of acute kidney injury (7.0% versus 3.6%; RR, 1.82; [95% CI, 1.05–3.16]), in trials that initiated and continued RASi. There was no increase in need for dialysis or differences in congestive cardiac failure, cerebrovascular events, venous thromboembolism, hospitalization, intensive care admission, inotropes, or mechanical ventilation.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials evaluating angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin II receptor blockers versus control in patients with COVID‐19 found no difference in all‐cause mortality, a borderline decrease in myocardial infarction, and an increased risk of acute kidney injury with RASi. Our findings provide strong evidence that RASi can be used safely in patients with COVID‐19.

Blood pressure and kidney outcomes in patients with severely decreased glomerular filtration rate: a nationwide observational cohort study

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the association between blood pressure (BP) and kidney outcomes in patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate less than 30 ml/min per 1.73 m 2 and different degrees of albuminuria.

METHODS

National observational cohort study of 18 071 chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 4-5 patients in routine nephrology care 2010-2017. The association between both baseline and repeated clinic office BP and eGFR slope and kidney replacement therapy (KRT) was explored using multivariable adjusted joint models. The analyses were stratified on albuminuria at baseline.

RESULTS

The adjusted yearly eGFR slope became increasingly steeper from -0,91 (95% CI -0.83 to -1.05) ml/min per 1.73 m 2 per year in those with SBP less than 120 mmHg at baseline to -2.09 (-1.83 to -2.37) ml/min per 1.73 m 2 in those with BP greater than 160 mmHg. Similarly, eGFR slope was steeper with higher DBP. Lower SBP and DBP was associated with slower eGFR decline in patients with albuminuria grade A3 (>30 mg/mmol) but not consistently in albuminuria A1-A2. Those with diabetes progressed faster and the association between BP and eGFR slope was stronger. In repeated BP measurement analyses, every 10 mmHg higher SBP over time was associated with 39% additional risk of KRT.

CONCLUSION

In people with eGFR less than 30 ml/min per 1.73 m 2 , lower clinic office BP is associated with more favorable kidney outcomes. Our results support lower BP targets also in people with CKD stage 4-5.

Cardiorenal syndrome: classification, pathophysiology, diagnosis and management. Literature review

The cardiorenal syndrome is a complex entity in which a primary heart dysfunction causes kidney injury (Types 1 and 2) and vice versa (Types 3 and 4), being either acute or chronic events, or maybe the result of a systemic disease that involves both organs (Type 5). Approximately 49% of heart failure cases present some grade of kidney dysfunction, significantly increasing morbidity and mortality rates. Its pathogenesis involves a variety of hemodynamic, hormonal and immunological factors that in the majority of cases produce fluid overload; the diagnosis and treatment of such constitutes the disease’s management basis. Currently, a clinical based diagnosis is insufficient and the use of biochemical markers, such as natriuretic peptides, or lung and heart ultrasound is required. These tools, along with urinary sodium levels, allow the evaluation of therapy effectiveness. The preferred initial decongestive strategy is based on a continuous infusion of a loop diuretic with a step-up dosing regimen, aiming for a minimal daily urine volume of 3 liters, with the possibility to sequentially add potassium sparing diuretics, thiazide diuretics and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors to reach the diuresis goal, leaving ultrafiltration as a last resource due to its higher rate of complications. Finally, evidence-based therapy should be given to improve quality of life, decrease mortality, and delay the deterioration of kidney and heart function over the long term.

Association of Intensive vs Standard Blood Pressure Control With Cerebral Blood Flow: Secondary Analysis of the SPRINT MIND Randomized Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

Antihypertensive treatments benefit cerebrovascular health and cognitive function in patients with hypertension, but it is uncertain whether an intensive blood pressure target leads to potentially harmful cerebral hypoperfusion.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association of intensive systolic blood pressure (SBP) control vs standard control with whole-brain cerebral blood flow (CBF).

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This substudy of the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT) randomized clinical trial compared the efficacy of 2 different blood pressure-lowering strategies with longitudinal brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) including arterial spin labeled perfusion imaging to quantify CBF. A total of 1267 adults 50 years or older with hypertension and increased cardiovascular risk but free of diabetes or dementia were screened for the SPRINT substudy from 6 sites in the US. Randomization began in November 2010 with final follow-up MRI in July 2016. Analyses were performed from September 2020 through December 2021.

INTERVENTIONS

Study participants with baseline CBF measures were randomized to an intensive SBP target less than 120 mm Hg or standard SBP target less than 140 mm Hg.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcome was change in whole-brain CBF from baseline. Secondary outcomes were change in gray matter, white matter, and periventricular white matter CBF.

RESULTS

Among 547 participants with CBF measured at baseline, the mean (SD) age was 67.5 (8.1) years and 219 (40.0%) were women; 315 completed follow-up MRI at a median (IQR) of 4.0 (3.7-4.1) years after randomization. Mean whole-brain CBF increased from 38.90 to 40.36 (difference, 1.46 [95% CI, 0.08-2.83]) mL/100 g/min in the intensive treatment group, with no mean increase in the standard treatment group (37.96 to 37.12; difference, -0.84 [95% CI, -2.30 to 0.61] mL/100 g/min; between-group difference, 2.30 [95% CI, 0.30-4.30; P = .02]). Gray, white, and periventricular white matter CBF showed similar changes. The association of intensive vs standard treatment with CBF was generally similar across subgroups defined by age, sex, race, chronic kidney disease, SBP, orthostatic hypotension, and frailty, with the exception of an indication of larger mean increases in CBF associated with intensive treatment among participants with a history of cardiovascular disease (interaction P = .05).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Intensive vs standard antihypertensive treatment was associated with increased, rather than decreased, cerebral perfusion, most notably in participants with a history of cardiovascular disease.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01206062.

11. Chronic Kidney Disease and Risk Management: Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes-2022

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) "Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes" includes the ADA's current clinical practice recommendations and is intended to provide the components of diabetes care, general treatment goals and guidelines, and tools to evaluate quality of care. Members of the ADA Professional Practice Committee, a multidisciplinary expert committee (https://doi.org/10.2337/dc22-SPPC), are responsible for updating the Standards of Care annually, or more frequently as warranted. For a detailed description of ADA standards, statements, and reports, as well as the evidence-grading system for ADA's clinical practice recommendations, please refer to the Standards of Care Introduction (https://doi.org/10.2337/dc22-SINT). Readers who wish to comment on the Standards of Care are invited to do so at professional.diabetes.org/SOC.

Risk-Based Intensive Blood Pressure Lowering and Prevention of Heart Failure: A SPRINT Post Hoc Analysis

[Figure: see text].

The Promise of Tubule Biomarkers in Kidney Disease: A Review

For over 70 years, serum creatinine has remained the primary index for detection and monitoring of kidney disease. Tubulointerstitial damage and fibrosis are highly prognostic for subsequent kidney failure in biopsy studies, yet this pathology is invisible to the clinician in the absence of a biopsy. Recent discovery of biomarkers that reflect distinct aspects of kidney tubule disease have led to investigations of whether these markers can provide additional information on risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression and associated adverse clinical end points, above and beyond estimated glomerular filtration rate and albuminuria. These biomarkers can be loosely grouped into those that mark tubule cell injury (eg, kidney injury molecule 1, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1) and those that mark tubule cell dysfunction (eg, α1-microglobulin, uromodulin). These kidney tubule biomarkers provide new opportunities to monitor response to therapeutics used to treat CKD patients. In this review, we describe results from some unique contributions in this area and discuss the current challenges and requirements in the field to bring these markers to clinical practice. We advocate for a broader assessment of kidney health that moves beyond a focus on the glomerulus, and we highlight how such tools can improve diagnostic accuracy and earlier assessment of therapeutic efficacy or harm in CKD patients.

Urine Alpha-1-Microglobulin Levels and Acute Kidney Injury, Mortality, and Cardiovascular Events following Cardiac Surgery

INTRODUCTION

Urine alpha-1-microglobulin (Uα1m) elevations signal proximal tubule dysfunction. In ambulatory settings, higher Uα1m is associated with acute kidney injury (AKI), progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD), cardiovascular (CV) events, and mortality. We investigated the associations of pre- and postoperative Uα1m concentrations with adverse outcomes after cardiac surgery.

METHODS

In 1,464 adults undergoing cardiac surgery in the prospective multicenter Translational Research Investigating Biomarker Endpoints for Acute Kidney Injury (TRIBE-AKI) cohort, we measured the pre-and postoperative Uα1m concentrations and calculated the changes from pre- to postoperative concentrations. Outcomes were postoperative AKI during index hospitalization and longitudinal risks for CKD incidence and progression, CV events, and all-cause mortality after discharge. We analyzed Uα1m continuously and categorically by tertiles using multivariable logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards regression adjusted for demographics, surgery characteristics, comorbidities, baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate, urine albumin, and urine creatinine.

RESULTS

There were 230 AKI events during cardiac surgery hospitalization; during median 6.7 years of follow-up, there were 212 cases of incident CKD, 54 cases of CKD progression, 269 CV events, and 459 deaths. Each 2-fold higher concentration of preoperative Uα1m was independently associated with AKI (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.36, 95% confidence interval 1.14-1.62), CKD progression (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.46, 1.04-2.05), and all-cause mortality (aHR = 1.19, 1.06-1.33) but not with incident CKD (aHR = 1.21, 0.96-1.51) or CV events (aHR = 1.01, 0.86-1.19). Postoperative Uα1m was not associated with AKI (aOR per 2-fold higher = 1.07, 0.93-1.22), CKD incidence (aHR = 0.90, 0.79-1.03) or progression (aHR = 0.79, 0.56-1.11), CV events (aHR = 1.06, 0.94-1.19), and mortality (aHR = 1.01, 0.92-1.11).

CONCLUSION

Preoperative Uα1m concentrations may identify patients at high risk of AKI and other adverse events after cardiac surgery, but postoperative Uα1m concentrations do not appear to be informative.

SPRINT-A Kidney-Centric Narrative Review: Recent Advances in Hypertension

Hypertension is a potent cardiovascular risk factor with deleterious end-organ effects and is especially prevalent among patients with chronic kidney disease. The SPRINT (Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial) enrolled patients at an elevated cardiac risk including patients with mild to moderate chronic kidney disease and found that an intensive systolic blood pressure goal of <120 mm Hg significantly reduced the rates of adverse cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality and nonsignificantly reduced the rates of probable dementia; these results were consistent whether one had chronic kidney disease or not. However, results of intensive blood pressure therapy on chronic kidney disease progression were inconclusive, and there was an increased risk of incident chronic kidney disease and acute kidney injury, but the declines in kidney function appear to be hemodynamically driven and reversible. Overall, an intensive blood pressure target is effective in reducing cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality and may reduce the risk of probable dementia in patients with mild to moderate chronic kidney disease. More studies are needed to determine its long-term effects on kidney function.

Chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease is a progressive disease with no cure and high morbidity and mortality that occurs commonly in the general adult population, especially in people with diabetes and hypertension. Preservation of kidney function can improve outcomes and can be achieved through non-pharmacological strategies (eg, dietary and lifestyle adjustments) and chronic kidney disease-targeted and kidney disease-specific pharmacological interventions. A plant-dominant, low-protein, and low-salt diet might help to mitigate glomerular hyperfiltration and preserve renal function for longer, possibly while also leading to favourable alterations in acid-base homoeostasis and in the gut microbiome. Pharmacotherapies that alter intrarenal haemodynamics (eg, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone pathway modulators and SGLT2 [SLC5A2] inhibitors) can preserve kidney function by reducing intraglomerular pressure independently of blood pressure and glucose control, whereas other novel agents (eg, non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists) might protect the kidney through anti-inflammatory or antifibrotic mechanisms. Some glomerular and cystic kidney diseases might benefit from disease-specific therapies. Managing chronic kidney disease-associated cardiovascular risk, minimising the risk of infection, and preventing acute kidney injury are crucial interventions for these patients, given the high burden of complications, associated morbidity and mortality, and the role of non-conventional risk factors in chronic kidney disease. When renal replacement therapy becomes inevitable, an incremental transition to dialysis can be considered and has been proposed to possibly preserve residual kidney function longer. There are similarities and distinctions between kidney-preserving care and supportive care. Additional studies of dietary and pharmacological interventions and development of innovative strategies are necessary to ensure optimal kidney-preserving care and to achieve greater longevity and better health-related quality of life for these patients.

Association Between Longitudinal Blood Pressure Trajectory and the Progression of Chronic Kidney Disease: Results From the KNOW-CKD

Studies on the longitudinal temporal trend of blood pressure (BP) and its impact on kidney function are scarce. Here, we evaluated the association of dynamic changes in systolic blood pressure (SBP) over time with adverse kidney outcomes. We analyzed 1837 participants from the KNOW-CKD (Korean Cohort Study for Outcomes in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease). The main exposure was 3 distinct SBP trajectories determined by the latent class mixed model (decreasing, stable, and increasing) using 3 SBP measurements at 0, 6, and 12 months. The primary outcome was CKD progression, defined as a composite of halving estimated glomerular filtration rate from baseline value or onset of end-stage kidney disease. SBP declined from 144 to 120 mm Hg in the decreasing SBP trajectory group and rose from 114 to 136 mm Hg in the increasing trajectory group within 1 year. During 6576 person-years of follow-up (median, 3.7 years), the composite outcome occurred in 521 (28.4%) participants. There were fewer primary outcome events in the decreasing (30.6%) and stable (26.5%) SBP trajectory groups than in the increasing trajectory group (33.0%). In the multivariable-adjusted cause-specific hazards model, increasing SBP trajectory was associated with a 1.28-fold higher risk for adverse kidney outcome compared with stable SBP trajectory. However, the risk for the primary outcome did not differ between the decreasing and stable SBP trajectory groups. In this longitudinal CKD cohort study, compared with stable SBP trajectory, increasing SBP trajectory was associated with higher risk for adverse kidney outcome, whereas decreasing SBP trajectory showed similar risk.

Urinary Biomarkers and Kidney Outcomes: Impact of Indexing Versus Adjusting for Urinary Creatinine

RATIONALE & OBJECTIVE

Urinary biomarker concentrations are frequently indexed to urinary creatinine (Ucr) concentration in spot samples to account for urine dilution; however, this may introduce biases. We evaluated whether indexing versus adjusting urinary biomarker concentrations for Ucr concentration altered their associations with outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

Observational cohort.

SETTING & PARTICIPANTS

We analyzed data from 2,360 Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT) participants with estimated glomerular filtration rates < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and urinary albumin (UAlb) and 8 urinary kidney tubule biomarkers measured at baseline.

OUTCOMES

The primary outcome was a composite of cardiovascular disease events; secondary outcomes were all-cause mortality and a composite of kidney outcomes (50% estimated glomerular filtration rate decline, end-stage kidney disease, or transplantation).

ANALYTICAL APPROACH

We used Cox proportional hazards regression to examine the associations of 1/Ucr with outcomes and compared the associations of UAlb and 8 individual urinary tubule biomarkers with outcomes, analyzed by indexing to Ucr, adjusting for 1/Ucr or the biomarker alone (without Ucr concentration).

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 3.3 years, 307 composite cardiovascular events, 166 deaths, and 34 composite kidney outcomes occurred. After multivariable adjustment, 1/Ucr was significantly associated with cardiovascular events (HR, 1.27 per 2-fold higher; 95% CI, 1.11-1.45), not associated with either mortality (HR, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.87-1.28) or kidney events (HR, 1.49; 95% CI, 0.95-2.35). For UAlb and urinary tubule biomarker concentrations, most risk estimates were not significantly different when indexed to Ucr concentration versus adjusted for 1/Ucr.

LIMITATIONS

Cohort excluded patients with diabetes and overall had low levels of albuminuria.

CONCLUSIONS

1/Ucr is independently associated with cardiovascular events in trial participants with chronic kidney disease. Indexing versus adjusting for 1/Ucr does not significantly change the associations of most urinary biomarkers with clinical outcomes.

Final Report of a Trial of Intensive versus Standard Blood-Pressure Control

BACKGROUND

In a previously reported randomized trial of standard and intensive systolic blood-pressure control, data on some outcome events had yet to be adjudicated and post-trial follow-up data had not yet been collected.

METHODS

We randomly assigned 9361 participants who were at increased risk for cardiovascular disease but did not have diabetes or previous stroke to adhere to an intensive treatment target (systolic blood pressure, <120 mm Hg) or a standard treatment target (systolic blood pressure, <140 mm Hg). The primary outcome was a composite of myocardial infarction, other acute coronary syndromes, stroke, acute decompensated heart failure, or death from cardiovascular causes. Additional primary outcome events occurring through the end of the intervention period (August 20, 2015) were adjudicated after data lock for the primary analysis. We also analyzed post-trial observational follow-up data through July 29, 2016.

RESULTS

At a median of 3.33 years of follow-up, the rate of the primary outcome and all-cause mortality during the trial were significantly lower in the intensive-treatment group than in the standard-treatment group (rate of the primary outcome, 1.77% per year vs. 2.40% per year; hazard ratio, 0.73; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.63 to 0.86; all-cause mortality, 1.06% per year vs. 1.41% per year; hazard ratio, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.61 to 0.92). Serious adverse events of hypotension, electrolyte abnormalities, acute kidney injury or failure, and syncope were significantly more frequent in the intensive-treatment group. When trial and post-trial follow-up data were combined (3.88 years in total), similar patterns were found for treatment benefit and adverse events; however, rates of heart failure no longer differed between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients who were at increased cardiovascular risk, targeting a systolic blood pressure of less than 120 mm Hg resulted in lower rates of major adverse cardiovascular events and lower all-cause mortality than targeting a systolic blood pressure of less than 140 mm Hg, both during receipt of the randomly assigned therapy and after the trial. Rates of some adverse events were higher in the intensive-treatment group. (Funded by the National Institutes of Health; SPRINT ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01206062.).

Major adverse renal events (MARE): a proposal to unify renal endpoints

BACKGROUND

In renal studies, various outcome endpoints are used with variable definitions, making it nearly impossible to perform meta-analyses and deduce meaningful conclusions. Increasing attention is directed towards standardization of renal outcome reporting.

METHODS

A working group was formed to produce a unifying definition of renal outcomes that can be used by all investigators. We propose major adverse renal events (MARE) as the term for a standardized composite of hard renal outcomes. We discuss the components for inclusion in MARE from existing evidence.

RESULTS

MARE could include three to five items, considered relevant to patients and regulators. New onset of kidney injury, that is persistent albuminuria/proteinuria and/or decreasing glomerular filtration rate (GFR) <60 ml/min/1.73 m2, persistent signs of worsening kidney disease, development of end-stage kidney disease with estimated GFR <15 ml/min/1.73 m2 without or with initiation of kidney replacement therapy, and death from renal cause are core items of MARE. Additionally, patient reported outcomes should be reported in parallel to MARE as a standard set of primary (or secondary) endpoints in studies on kidney disease of diabetic, hypertensive-vascular, or other origin.

CONCLUSIONS

MARE as a reporting standard will enhance the ability to compare studies and thus, facilitate meaningful meta-analyses. This will result in standardized endpoints that should result in guideline improvement to better individualize care of patients with kidney disease.

Effects of intensive blood pressure control on mortality and cardiorenal function in chronic kidney disease patients

BACKGROUND

Blood pressure (BP) variability is highly correlated with cardiovascular and kidney outcomes in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, appropriate BP targets in patients with CKD remain uncertain.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of CKD patients who underwent intensive BP management. Kappa score was used to assess inter-rater agreement. A good agreement between the authors was observed to inter-rater reliability of RCTs selection (kappa = 0.77; P = 0.005).

RESULTS

Ten relevant studies involving 20 059 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Overall, intensive BP management may reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease mortality (RR: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.53 to 0.90, P: 0.01), all-cause mortality (RR: 0.77, 95% CI: 0.67 to 0.88, P < 0.01) and composite cardiovascular events (RR: 0.84 95% CI: 0.75 to 0.95, P < 0.01) in patients with CKD. However, reducing BP has no significant effect on the incidence of doubling of serum creatinine level or 50% reduction in GFR (RR: 1.26, 95% CI: 0.66 to 2.40, P = 0.48), composite renal events (RR 1.07, 95% CI: 0.81 to 1.41, P = 0.64) or SAEs (RR: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.90 to 1.05, P = 0.48).

CONCLUSION

In patients with CKD, enhanced BP management is associated with reduced all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and incidence of composite cardiovascular events.

Kidney Function Following Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation: An Observational Cohort Study

Rationale & Objective

Nearly half the patients with heart failure have chronic kidney disease. Implantation of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) improves kidney function in some but not all patients, and lack of improvement is associated with worse outcomes. Preimplantation factors that predict change in kidney function after LVAD placement are not well described.

Study Design

Single-center observational study.

Setting & Participants

Consecutive patients undergoing LVAD implantation.

Predictors

48 diverse preimplantation variables including demographic, clinical, laboratory, hemodynamic, and echocardiographic variables.

Outcomes

The primary outcome was change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at 1 month after implantation. Secondary outcomes included eGFR changes at 3, 6, and 12 months.

Analytic Approach

Univariable and multivariable linear regression.

Results

Among 131 patients, average age was 60 ± 13 years, 83% were men, 47% had pre-existing chronic kidney disease, and mean preimplantation eGFR was 57 ± 23 mL/min/1.73 m². At 1-month following LVAD implantation, eGFR improved in 98 (75%) patients. Variables associated with 1-month increases in eGFR were younger age, absence of diabetes mellitus (DM), use of inotropes, lower implantation eGFR, and higher implantation serum urea nitrogen, alanine aminotransferase, bilirubin, and creatinine levels. In multivariable models, younger age (β = 7.14 mL/min/1.73 m² per SD; 95% CI, 3.17-11.10), lower eGFR (β = 7.72 mL/min/1.73 m² per SD; 95% CI, 3.10-12.34), and absence of DM (β = 10.36 mL/min/1.73 m²; 95% CI, 2.99-17.74) were each independently associated with 1-month improvement in eGFR. Only younger age and lower eGFR were associated with improvements in eGFR at later months.

Limitations

Single-center study. Loss to follow-up from heart transplantation and death over duration of study.

Conclusions

Only younger age, lower eGFR, and absence of DM were associated with improvement in eGFR at 1 month. Thus, prediction of eGFR change at 1 month and beyond is limited by using preimplantation variables.

Modification of the effects of intensive systolic blood pressure control on kidney outcomes by baseline body mass index

AIM

Obesity and intensive systolic blood pressure (SBP) control are independently associated with greater risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) and incident chronic kidney disease (CKD). We examined whether baseline body mass index (BMI) modifies the effects of intensive SBP lowering on AKI or incident CKD.

METHODS

The systolic blood pressure intervention trial (SPRINT) randomized 9361 participants with high blood pressure to an SBP target of either <120 mm Hg or < 140 mm Hg. In a secondary analysis of 9210 SPRINT participants with a baseline BMI of ≥18.5 and < 50 kg/m² , we examined the interactions of baseline BMI and SPRINT SBP intervention on subsequent AKI and incident CKD.

RESULTS

Each 5 kg/m² increase in baseline BMI was associated with higher risk of AKI (hazard ratio [HR] 1.12, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01 to 1.25) and incident CKD (HR 1.17, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.32). Intensive SBP control increased the risk of AKI (HR 1.68, 95% CI 1.22-2.11) and incident CKD (HR 3.49, 95% CI 2.47-4.94). The increased risk of AKI with intensive SBP control was consistent across the baseline BMI spectrum (linear interaction p = 0.55); however, the risk of incident CKD with SPRINT intervention increased with higher BMI (linear interaction p = 0.043).

CONCLUSION

The increased risk of adverse kidney events seen with intensive SBP control in the SPRINT persisted across the baseline BMI spectrum. A higher baseline BMI was associated with an augmented risk of incident CKD with intensive SBP control.

11. Microvascular Complications and Foot Care: Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes-2021

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) "Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes" includes the ADA's current clinical practice recommendations and is intended to provide the components of diabetes care, general treatment goals and guidelines, and tools to evaluate quality of care. Members of the ADA Professional Practice Committee, a multidisciplinary expert committee (https://doi.org/10.2337/dc21-SPPC), are responsible for updating the Standards of Care annually, or more frequently as warranted. For a detailed description of ADA standards, statements, and reports, as well as the evidence-grading system for ADA's clinical practice recommendations, please refer to the Standards of Care Introduction (https://doi.org/10.2337/dc21-SINT). Readers who wish to comment on the Standards of Care are invited to do so at professional.diabetes.org/SOC.

The Value of Ketone Bodies in the Evaluation of Kidney Function in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

OBJECTIVES

Recent studies have shown that the slightly elevated circulating levels of ketone bodies (KBs) played a significant role in the treatment of various diseases. This study is aimed at investigating the association between different levels of KBs and kidney function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

A retrospective study of 955 patients with T2DM (426 women and 529 men) admitted to our hospital from December 2017 to September 2019 was conducted. Patients were divided into different groups in line with the levels of KBs (low-normal group: 0.02-0.04 mmol/L, middle-normal group: 0.05-0.08 mmol/L, high-normal group: 0.09-0.27 mmol/L, and slightly elevated group: >0.27 and <3.0 mmol/L).

RESULTS

In the present study, individuals with high-normal levels of KBs had the lowest risk of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and increased peak systolic velocity (PSV); those with middle-normal levels of KBs had the lowest risk of increased renal arterial resistive index (RI), with a positive correlation between increased α1-microglobulin and KB concentration. In addition, the indicators of glomerulus, renal tubules, and renal arteries were all poor with slightly elevated circulating levels of KBs, and KB concentration lower than 0.09 mmol/L can be applied as the threshold for low risk of renal function damage.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, slightly elevated circulating levels of ketone bodies are not of benefit for renal function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Estimated GFR Variability and Risk of Cardiovascular Events and Mortality in SPRINT (Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial)

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVE

Although low estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) events and mortality, the clinical significance of variability in eGFR over time is uncertain. This study aimed to evaluate the associations between variability in eGFR and the risk of CVD events and all-cause mortality.

STUDY DESIGN

Longitudinal analysis of clinical trial participants.

SETTINGS AND PARTICIPANTS

7,520 Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT) participants ≥50 year of age with 1 or more CVD risk factors.

PREDICTORS

eGFR variability, estimated by the coefficient of variation of eGFR assessments at the 6th, 12th, and 18-month study visits.

OUTCOMES

The SPRINT primary CVD composite outcome (myocardial infarction, acute coronary syndrome, stroke, heart failure, or CVD death) and all-cause mortality from month 18 to the end of follow-up.

ANALYTICAL APPROACH

Cox models were used to evaluate associations between eGFR variability and CVD outcomes and all-cause mortality. Models were adjusted for demographics, randomization arm, CVD risk factors, albuminuria, and eGFR at month 18.

RESULTS

Mean age was 68 ± 9 years; 65% were men; and 58% were White. The mean eGFR was 73 ± 21 (SD) mL/min/1.73 m² at 6 months. There were 370 CVD events and 154 deaths during a median follow-up of 2.4 years. Greater eGFR variability was associated with higher risk for all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR] per 1 SD greater variability, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.14-1.45) but not CVD events (HR, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.95-1.16) after adjusting for albuminuria, eGFR, and other CVD risk factors. Associations were similar when stratified by treatment arm and by baseline CKD status, when accounting for concurrent systolic blood pressure changes, use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers, and diuretic medications during follow up.

LIMITATIONS

Persons with diabetes and proteinuria > 1 g/d were excluded.

CONCLUSIONS

In trial participants at high risk for CVD, greater eGFR variability was independently associated with all-cause mortality but not CVD events.

Association of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs with Kidney Health in Ambulatory Older Adults

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause kidney injury, especially in older adults. However, previously reported associations between NSAID use and kidney health outcomes are inconsistent and limited by reliance on serum creatinine-based GFR estimates. This analysis investigated the association of NSAID use with kidney damage in older adults using multiple kidney health measures.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses.

SETTING

Multicenter, community-based cohort.

PARTICIPANTS

Two thousand nine hundred and ninty nine older adults in the Health ABC Study. A subcohort (n = 500) was randomly selected for additional biomarker measurements.

EXPOSURE

Prescription and over-the-counter NSAID use ascertained by self-report.

MEASUREMENTS

Baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) by cystatin C (cysC), urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR), kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), and interleukin-18 (IL-18) were measured in 2,999 participants; alpha-1 microglobulin (α1m), neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), propeptide type III procollagen (PIIINP), and uromodulin (UMOD) were measured in 500 participants. GFR was estimated three times over 10 years and expressed as percent change per year.

RESULTS

Participants had a mean age of 74 years, 51% were female, and 41% African-American. No eGFR differences were detected between NSAID users (n = 655) and non-users (n = 2,344) at baseline (72 ml/min/1.73 m² in both groups). Compared to non-users, NSAID users had lower adjusted odds of having ACR greater than 30 mg/g (0.67; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.51-0.89) and lower mean urine IL-18 concentration at baseline (-11%; 95% CI = -4% to -18%), but similar mean KIM-1 (5%; 95% CI = -5% to 14%). No significant differences in baseline concentrations of the remaining urine biomarkers were detected. NSAID users and non-users did not differ significantly in the rate of eGFR decline (-2.2% vs -2.3% per year).

CONCLUSION

Self-reported NSAID use was not associated with kidney dysfunction or injury based on multiple measures, raising the possibility of NSAID use without kidney harm in ambulatory older adults. More research is needed to define safe patterns of NSAID consumption.

The challenge of early glomerular filtration rate decline in response to antihypertensive treatment and chronic kidney disease outcomes

Hypertension and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are closely linked pathological processes. Combating high blood pressure (BP) is an essential part of preventing CKD progression and reducing cardiovascular (CV) risk. Data from recent randomized controlled trials on patients at high CV risk showed the beneficial effects of intensive action to meet BP targets on mortality related to CV disease. The impact of meeting such targets on renal function is still unclear, however, particularly for patients with CKD. This issue has been the object of several post hoc analyses because lowering BP definitely has a nephroprotective role, but the early decline in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) associated with antihypertensive therapies and strict BP targets is still a concern in nephrology clinical practice. The present review discusses the results of studies on this topic, focusing specifically on the clinical significance of early GFR decline in response to treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker, or to different BP targets, in terms of renal and CV outcomes, and how this tips the balance towards continuing or discontinuing antihypertensive therapy.

Recent advances in managing primary hypertension

Hypertension remains a leading risk factor for cardiovascular mortality and morbidity globally despite the availability of effective and well-tolerated antihypertensive medications. Accumulating evidence suggests a more aggressive blood pressure regulation aimed at lower targets, particularly for selected patient groups. Our concepts of the optimal method for blood pressure measurement have radically changed, maintaining appropriate standard office measurements for initial assessment but relying on out-of-office measurement to better guide our decisions. Thorough risk stratification provides guidance in decision making; however, an individualized approach is highly recommended to prevent overtreatment. Undertreatment, on the other hand, remains a major concern and is mainly attributed to poor adherence and resistant or difficult-to-control forms of the disease. This review aims to present modern perspectives, novel treatment options, including innovative technological applications and developing interventional and pharmaceutical therapies, and the major concerns emerging from several years of research and epidemiological observations related to hypertension management.

Intensive blood pressure lowering: a practical review

According to the last Hypertension guideline recommendations, it may be concluded that intensive BP lowering is only advisable in a subgroup of patients where there is a clear net benefit of targeting to lower BP goals. However, taking into account the relevance of correct BP measurement, estimates of the benefits versus the harm should be based on reliable office BP measurements and home BP measurements.

There is still debate about which BP goals are optimal in reducing morbidity and mortality in uncomplicated hypertensives and in those with associated comorbidities. In recent years, trials and meta-analyses have assessed intensive BP lowering, with some success. However, a careful examination of the results shows that current data are not easily applicable to the general hypertensive population.

This article reviews the evidence on and controversies about intensive BP lowering in general and in specific clinical situations, and the importance of obtaining reliable BP readings in patients with hypertension and comorbidities.

How to Manage Hypertension in People With Diabetes

Hypertension is a common condition that is often seen in patients with diabetes. Both diseases increase the risk of morbidity and mortality from CV events and kidney disease progression. Factors that influence blood pressure (BP) control in diabetes include the persons' genetic background for hypertension and kidney disease, level of obesity and insulin resistance, the magnitude of preexisting kidney disease, and lifestyle factors, such as level of sodium and potassium intake, sleep quality and exercise effort all of which can affect levels of sympathetic nerve activity and contribute to increased BP variability. Lifestyle intervention is a key component to the effective management of diabetes and hypertension and can markedly reduce event rates of both heart and kidney outcomes. The approach to pharmacologic treatment of BP in diabetes is crucial since certain classes of agents for both BP and diabetes confer significant benefits to reduce cardiorenal outcomes.