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Pan S, Zhao DL, Li P, Sun XF, Zhou JH, Song KK, Wang Y, Miao LN, Ni ZH, Lin HL, Liu FY, Li Y, He YN, Wang NS, Wang CL, Zhang AH, Chen MH, Yang XP, Deng YY, Shao FM, Fu SX, Fang JA, Cai GY, Chen XM. Relationships among the Dosage of Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents, Erythropoietin Resistance Index, and Mortality in Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients. Blood Purif 2021; 51:171-181. [PMID: 34175850 DOI: 10.1159/000506536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) constitute an important treatment option for anemia in hemodialysis (HD) patients. We investigated the relationships among the dosage of ESA, erythropoietin resistance index (ERI) scores, and mortality in Chinese MHD patients. METHODS This multicenter observational retrospective study included MHD patients from 16 blood purification centers (n = 824) who underwent HD in 2011-2015 and were followed up until December 31, 2016. We collected demographic variables, HD parameters, laboratory values, and ESA dosages. Patients were grouped into quartiles according to ESA dosage to study the effect of ESA dosage on all-cause mortality. The ERI was calculated as follows: ESA (IU/week)/weight (kg)/hemoglobin levels (g/dL). We also compared outcomes among the patients stratified into quartiles according to ERI scores. We used the Cox proportional hazards model to measure the relationships between the ESA dosage, ERI scores, and all-cause mortality. Using propensity score matching, we compared mortality between groups according to ERI scores, classified as either > or ≤12.80. RESULTS In total, 824 patients were enrolled in the study; 200 (24.3%) all-cause deaths occurred within the observation period. Kaplan-Meier analyses showed that patients administered high dosages of ESAs had significantly worse survival than those administered low dosages of ESAs. A multivariate Cox regression identified that high dosages of ESAs could significantly predict mortality (ESA dosage >10,000.0 IU/week, HR = 1.59, 95% confidence intervals (CIs) (1.04, 2.42), and p = 0.031). Our analysis also indicated a significant increase in the risk of mortality in patients with high ERI scores. Propensity score matching-analyses confirmed that ERI > 12.80 could significantly predict mortality (HR = 1.56, 95% CI [1.11, 2.18], and p = 0.010). CONCLUSIONS Our data suggested that ESA dosages >10,000.0 IU/week in the first 3 months constitute an independent predictor of all-cause mortality among Chinese MHD patients. A higher degree of resistance to ESA was related to a higher risk of all-cause mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Pan
- The PLA Medical College, Department of Nephrology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - De-Long Zhao
- The PLA Medical College, Department of Nephrology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Ping Li
- The PLA Medical College, Department of Nephrology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Xue-Feng Sun
- The PLA Medical College, Department of Nephrology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Hui Zhou
- The PLA Medical College, Department of Nephrology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Kang-Kang Song
- The PLA Medical College, Department of Nephrology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Wang
- The PLA Medical College, Department of Nephrology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Li-Ning Miao
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhao-Hui Ni
- Department of Nephrology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Peritoneal Dialysis Research Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong-Li Lin
- Department of Nephrology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Fu-You Liu
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Nephrology, Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Kidney Disease Research Center of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Ya Ni He
- Department of Nephrology, Institute of Surgery Research, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Nian-Song Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Affiliated The Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cai-Li Wang
- Department of Nephrology, First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Baotou, China
| | - Ai-Hua Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Meng-Hua Chen
- Department of Nephrology, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Xiao-Ping Yang
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, China
| | - Yue-Yi Deng
- Department of Nephrology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng-Min Shao
- Department of Nephrology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shu-Xia Fu
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Jing-Ai Fang
- Department of Nephrology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Guang-Yan Cai
- The PLA Medical College, Department of Nephrology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Xiang-Mei Chen
- The PLA Medical College, Department of Nephrology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Beijing, China
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Prasad B, Jafari M, Toppings J, Gross L, Kappel J, Au F. Economic Benefits of Switching From Intravenous to Subcutaneous Epoetin Alfa for the Management of Anemia in Hemodialysis Patients. Can J Kidney Health Dis 2020; 7:2054358120927532. [PMID: 32547774 PMCID: PMC7273547 DOI: 10.1177/2054358120927532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents including epoetin alfa have been a mainstay
of anemia management in patients with chronic kidney disease. Although the
standard practice has been to administer epoetin alfa to patients on
hemodialysis (HD) intravenously (IV), subcutaneous (SQ) epoetin alfa is
longer acting and achieve the same target hemoglobin level to be maintained
at a reduced dose and cost. Objective: The primary objective of this study was to determine the economic benefits of
change in route of epoetin alfa administration from IV to SQ in HD patients.
The secondary objectives were (1) to determine the differences in epoetin
alfa doses at the pre-switch (IV) and post-switch period (SQ) and (2) to
determine serum hemoglobin concentration, transferrin saturation, ferritin
level, IV iron dose and cost in relationship to route of epoetin alfa
administration. Design: This retrospective observational study included patients who transitioned
from IV to SQ epoetin alfa. Setting: Two HD sites in southern Saskatchewan (Regina General Hospital, and Wascana
Dialysis Unit, Regina) and 2 sites in northern Saskatchewan (St. Paul’s
[SPH] Hospital, and SPH Community Renal Health Center, Saskatoon). Patients: The study includes 215 patients who transitioned from IV to SQ and were alive
at the end of 12-month follow-up period. Measurements: We calculated the dose and cost of different routes of epoetin alfa
administration/patient month. Also, serum hemoglobin, markers of iron stores
(transferrin saturation and ferritin), IV iron dose, and cost were
determined in relation to route of epoetin alfa administration. Methods: Data were gathered from 6 months prior (IV) to 12 months after switching
treatment to SQ. The paired t-test and Wilcoxon signed-rank
test were used to compare variables between pre-switch (IV) and post-switch
(SQ) period. Results: The median cost (interquartile range) of epoetin alfa/patient-month decreased
from (CAD508.3 [CAD349-CAD900.8]) pre-switch (IV) to (CAD381.2
[CAD247-CAD681]) post-switch (SQ) (P < .001), a decrease
of 25%. The median epoetin alfa dose/patient-month reduced from (38 500 [25
714.3-64 166.5] international unit) pre-switch to (26 750.3 [17 362.6-48
066] IU) post-switch (P < .001), a decrease of 30.51%.
The mean hemoglobin concentration (± standard deviation) for patients in
both periods remained stable (103.3 ± 9.2 vs 104.3 ± 13.3 g/L,
P = .34) and within the target range. There were no
significant differences in transferrin saturation, ferritin, and IV iron
dose and cost between the 2 study periods. Limitations: We were unable to consistently obtain information across all the sites on
hospitalizations, inflammatory markers, nutritional status, and
gastrointestinal bleeding. In addition, as our study sample was subject to
survival bias, we cannot generalize our study results to other
populations. Conclusions: We have shown that administering epoetin alfa SQ in HD patients led to a
30.51% reduction in dose and 25% reduction in cost while achieving
equivalent hemoglobin levels. Given the cost sparing advantages without
compromising care while achieving comparable hemoglobin levels, HD units
should consider converting to SQ mode of administration. Trial registration: The study was not registered on a publicly accessible registry as it was a
retrospective chart review and exempted from review by the Research Ethics
Board of the former Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhanu Prasad
- Section of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Regina General Hospital, Saskatchewan Health Authority, Regina, Canada
| | - Maryam Jafari
- Section of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Regina General Hospital, Saskatchewan Health Authority, Regina, Canada
| | - Julie Toppings
- Department of Pharmacy, Regina General Hospital, Saskatchewan Health Authority, Regina, Canada
| | - Linda Gross
- Department of Pharmacy, Regina General Hospital, Saskatchewan Health Authority, Regina, Canada
| | - Joanne Kappel
- Section of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, St Paul's Hospital, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Flora Au
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, AB, Canada
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Coronado Daza JA, Cuchi GU. Gender Differences in Dose of Erythropoietin to Maintain Hemoglobin Target in Hemodialysis Patients. Indian J Nephrol 2019; 29:160-165. [PMID: 31142961 PMCID: PMC6521763 DOI: 10.4103/ijn.ijn_124_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Dialysis patients receiving erythropoietin (EPO) for anemia management are a challenge due to the significant interindividual variability in erythropoietic response. Our objective was to determine if there is a gender-dependent difference in the EPO doses required to maintain the hemoglobin (Hb) targets in adult patients undergoing hemodialysis. We conducted a historic cohort study with a 12-month follow-up. We include patients with the Hb target, normal serum albumin, and normal transferrin saturation index. Monthly data were gathered for the following: Hb level, EPO doses, and intravenous iron doses. In the 11 hemodialysis facilities included, 1844 patients were on hemodialysis. We considered 389 patients for follow-up, 190 of which were excluded mainly for failing to keep the Hb level in the established range. The final cohort for analysis included 141 men (70.9%) and 58 women (29.1%). At baseline, men weighed more than women (P < 0.001). At the end of the follow-up period, the EPO required to maintain Hb level between 10 and 13 g/dl was significantly higher in women in the monthly dose, weekly dose, and weekly EPO dose/patient weight, with no difference in the monthly iron dose. There was a significant association between female gender and the use of high EPO doses (odds ratio, 4.1; 95% confidence interval, 1.4–12.2; P = 0.01). Our study demonstrates that women require higher doses of EPO to achieve Hb targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Coronado Daza
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical Department, University of Cartagena, Cartagena, Colombia
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Di Iorio B, Cirillo M, Bellizzi V, Stellato D, De Santo NG, Aquino A, Anastasio P, Barchiesi S, Bonanno D, Buccino A, Cappabianca F, Cesaro A, Cestaro R, Chiuchiolo L, Chiuchiolo L, Ciaccia L, Cicchella T, Cillo N, Cioffi M, Cirillo E, Confessore N, Costanzo R, D'Apice L, De Felice E, Delgado G, De Luca M, De Luca P, De Luna V, De Maio A, De Pascale C, Della Volpe L, De Simone V, De Simone W, Di Benedetto A, Di Costanzo L, Di Donato R, Di Serafino A, Fabozzi GM, Fiorentino P, Fragetta G, Fumante M, Galise A, Giangrande C, Giobbe A, Gnasso A, Granato P, Guastaferro P, Iacono G, Iandolo R, Iengo G, Lamberti C, La Verde A, Liccardo D, Maddalena L, Mancini L, Manfreda L, Mari R, Marinelli G, Marinelli G, Martignetti V, Mascolini N, Maurodopoulos C, Migliorati M, Memoli M, Milone A, Milone D, Monaco G, Monteleone E, Natale G, Oggero AR, Pavese F, Petrelli P, Pizzola AR, Raucci B, Rubino R, Salvati G, Santoro D, Saviano C, Savignano M, Sforza C, Spitali L, Staulo P, Stellato D, Taddeo U, Terracciano V, Tomasino G, Tramontano P, Veniero P, Ventre M, Verrillo E, Violante B, Vitiello P, Viola G. Prevalence and Correlates of Anemia and Uncontrolled Anemia in Chronic Hemodialysis Patients – The Campania Dialysis Registry. Int J Artif Organs 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/039139880703000408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background This study investigated prevalence and correlates of anemia and uncontrolled anemia in chronic hemodialysis patients. Methods A cross-sectional analysis was performed on registry data for 2,746 chronic (<6 months) hemodialysis patients aged 25–84. Data collection included years of dialysis, hours of dialysis/wk, disease causing hemodialysis, body mass index (BMI), erythropoietin (EPO) treatment, hemoglobin, markers of viral hepatitis, serum albumin, calcium, and phosphorus. Results Prevalence was 88.7% for anemia (hemoglobin <11 g/100 mL and EPO treatment at any Hb level), 39.4% for uncontrolled anemia (hemoglobin<11 g/100 mL). Gender, years of dialysis, hereditary cystic kidney disease (HCKD), and low BMI (<24 kg/m2) were independent correlates of anemia (P<0.001). Gender, HCKD, low BMI, serum albumin and calcium were independent correlates of uncontrolled anemia (P<0.05). An interaction was found between age (not correlated with anemia and uncontrolled anemia) and the association of gender with uncontrolled anemia (P<0.05). EPO doses were higher in patients with high prevalence of uncontrolled anemia than in patients with low prevalence (i.e., women vs men, other diseases vs HCKD, low vs not-low BMI, P<0.01). Gender, years of dialysis, HCKD, BMI, serum albumin, and calcium were independent correlates of the hemoglobin/EPO dose ratio in patients on EPO treatment (P<0.05). Conclusion Anemia and uncontrolled anemia are more frequent in hemodialysis patients with short-term dialysis, diseases other than HCKD, low BMI, and female gender. Gender effect was lower in elderly patients. Uncontrolled anemia was also associated with low serum albumin and calcium, suggesting that these parameters are indices of EPO resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- B. Di Iorio
- Department of Nephrology, Second University of Naples, Naples - Italy
- Department of Nephrology, Solofra Hospital, Solofra - Italy
| | - M. Cirillo
- Department of Nephrology, Second University of Naples, Naples - Italy
| | - V. Bellizzi
- Department of Nephrology, Solofra Hospital, Solofra - Italy
| | - D. Stellato
- Department of Nephrology, Second University of Naples, Naples - Italy
| | - N. G. De Santo
- Department of Nephrology, Second University of Naples, Naples - Italy
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Mikhail A, Brown C, Williams JA, Mathrani V, Shrivastava R, Evans J, Isaac H, Bhandari S. Renal association clinical practice guideline on Anaemia of Chronic Kidney Disease. BMC Nephrol 2017; 18:345. [PMID: 29191165 PMCID: PMC5709852 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-017-0688-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Anaemia is a commonly diagnosed complication among patients suffering with chronic kidney disease. If left untreated, it may affect patient quality of life. There are several causes for anaemia in this patient population. As the kidney function deteriorates, together with medications and dietary restrictions, patients may develop iron deficiency, resulting in reduction of iron supply to the bone marrow (which is the body organ responsible for the production of different blood elements). Chronic kidney disease patients may not be able to utilise their own body's iron stores effectively and hence, many patients, particularly those receiving haemodialysis, may require additional iron treatment, usually provided by infusion.With further weakening of kidney function, patients with chronic kidney disease may need additional treatment with a substance called erythropoietin which drives the bone marrow to produce its own blood. This substance, which is naturally produced by the kidneys, becomes relatively deficient in patients with chronic kidney disease. Any patients will eventually require treatment with erythropoietin or similar products that are given by injection.Over the last few years, several iron and erythropoietin products have been licensed for treating anaemia in chronic kidney disease patients. In addition, several publications discussed the benefits of each treatment and possible risks associated with long term treatment. The current guidelines provide advice to health care professionals on how to screen chronic kidney disease patients for anaemia, which patients to investigate for other causes of anaemia, when and how to treat patients with different medications, how to ensure safe prescribing of treatment and how to diagnose and manage complications associated with anaemia and the drugs used for its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf Mikhail
- Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board, Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom.
| | - Christopher Brown
- Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board, Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom
| | | | - Vinod Mathrani
- Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Newport, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Rajesh Shrivastava
- Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board, Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Evans
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, England
| | - Hayleigh Isaac
- Patient Representative, c/o The Renal Association, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Sunil Bhandari
- Hull & East Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust, Hull, England
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Fusco G, Hariri A, Vallarino C, Singh A, Yu P, Wise L. A threshold trajectory was revealed by isolating the effects of hemoglobin rate of rise in anemia of chronic kidney disease. Ther Adv Drug Saf 2017; 8:305-318. [PMID: 29593859 PMCID: PMC5865462 DOI: 10.1177/2042098617716819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To assess cardiovascular risk among various hemoglobin (Hb) rates of rise (RoR) in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients with anemia who have initiated therapy with erythropoiesis stimulating agents (ESAs). METHODS Observational cohort of CKD patients initiating ESA therapy from the Centricity® database, 1990-2011. Proportional hazards models tested the hypothesis that a slower Hb RoR (0 < g/dl/month ⩽ 0.125) is associated with a lower cardiovascular (CV) incidence [composite of fatal/nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke] compared with faster RoR (0.125 < g/dl/month ⩽ 2.0, and >2.0 g/dl/month). RESULTS A total of 9220 patients receiving ESAs were followed for an average of 3.1 years. Slow (group B) RoR versus medium (group C') and fast (group D') RoR in Hb, throughout all Hb milestones, was associated with lower risk of the composite endpoint [B (slow) versus D' (fast) [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.20 (0.11, 0.39), p < 0.0001]; B versus C' (medium) [HR = 0.34 (0.19, 0.62), p = 0.0004], and C' versus D' [HR = 0.60 (0.42, 0.85), p = 0.005]]. Within achieved Hb milestones, HRs were: B versus D' at milestone ⩾ 14.1 g/dl [HR = 0.17 (0.05, 0.56); p = 0.004] and at milestone 12.6-14.0 [HR = 0.18 (0.07, 0.46), p = 0.0004]. CONCLUSION Rapid Hb rise is associated with adverse CV outcomes, with markedly lower risk for rates below a threshold trajectory of 0.125 g/dl/month, even with complete correction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Fusco
- Epividian, Inc., 4819 Emperor Boulevard, Suite 400, Durham, NC 27703, USA
| | - Ali Hariri
- Sanofi Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Bridgewater, NJ, USA
| | | | - Ajay Singh
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Peter Yu
- Takeda Pharmaceuticals International Inc., Deerfield IL, USA
| | - Lesley Wise
- Wise Pharmacovigilance and Risk Management, Ltd., UK
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Tangri N, Miskulin DC, Zhou J, Bandeen-Roche K, Michels WM, Ephraim PL, McDermott A, Crews DC, Scialla JJ, Sozio SM, Shafi T, Jaar BG, Meyer K, Boulware LE. Effect of intravenous iron use on hospitalizations in patients undergoing hemodialysis: a comparative effectiveness analysis from the DEcIDE-ESRD study. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2014; 30:667-75. [PMID: 25366328 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfu349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intravenous iron use in hemodialysis patients has greatly increased over the last decade, despite limited studies on the safety of iron. METHODS We studied the association of receipt of intravenous iron with hospitalizations in an incident cohort of hemodialysis patients. We examined 9544 patients from Dialysis Clinic, Inc. (DCI). We ascertained intravenous iron use from DCI electronic medical record and USRDS data files, and hospitalizations through Medicare claims. We examined the association between iron exposure accumulated over 1-, 3- or 6-month time windows and incident hospitalizations in the follow-up period using marginal structural models accounting for time-dependent confounders. We performed sensitivity analyses including recurrent events models for multiple hospitalizations and models for combined outcome of hospitalization and death. RESULTS There were 22 347 hospitalizations during a median follow-up of 23 months. Higher cumulative dose of intravenous iron was not associated with all-cause, cardiovascular or infectious hospitalizations [HR 0.97 (95% CI: 0.77-1.22) for all-cause hospitalizations comparing >2100 mg versus 0-900 mg of iron over 6 months]. Findings were similar in models examining the risk of hospitalizations in 1- and 3-month windows [HR 0.88 (95% CI: 0.79-0.99) and HR 0.88 (95% CI: 0.74-1.03), respectively] or the risk of combined outcome of hospitalization and death in the 6-month window [HR 0.98 (95% CI: 0.78-1.23)]. CONCLUSIONS Higher cumulative dose of intravenous iron may not be associated with increased risk of hospitalizations in hemodialysis patients. While clinical trials are needed, employing higher iron doses to reduce erythropoiesis-stimulating agents does not appear to increase morbidity in routine clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navdeep Tangri
- Division of Nephrology, Seven Oaks General Hospital, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg Manitoba, Canada
| | - Dana C Miskulin
- Division of Nephrology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jing Zhou
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Karen Bandeen-Roche
- Department of Biostatistics, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Wieneke M Michels
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Patti L Ephraim
- Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Aidan McDermott
- Department of Biostatistics, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Deidra C Crews
- Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Julia J Scialla
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Stephen M Sozio
- Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Tariq Shafi
- Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Bernard G Jaar
- Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA Nephrology Center of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Klemens Meyer
- Division of Nephrology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - L Ebony Boulware
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Fibach E, Rachmilewitz EA. Does erythropoietin have a role in the treatment of β-hemoglobinopathies? Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2014; 28:249-63. [PMID: 24589265 DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2013.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This review presents the indications and contraindications (pros and cons) for the potential use of erythropoietin (Epo) as a treatment in β-thalassemia and sickle cell anemia (SCA). Its high cost and route of administration (by injection) are obvious obstacles, especially in underdeveloped countries, where thalassemia is prevalent. We believe that from the data summarized in this review, the time has come to define, by studying in vitro and in vivo models, as well as by controlled clinical trials, the rationale for treating patients with various forms of thalassemia and SCA with Epo alone or in combination with other medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eitan Fibach
- Department of Hematology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Ein-Kerem, Jerusalem 91120, Israel.
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McCullough PA, Barnhart HX, Inrig JK, Reddan D, Sapp S, Patel UD, Singh AK, Szczech LA, Califf RM. Cardiovascular toxicity of epoetin-alfa in patients with chronic kidney disease. Am J Nephrol 2013; 37:549-58. [PMID: 23735819 DOI: 10.1159/000351175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2012] [Accepted: 04/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recombinant erythropoietin has become a routine component of care of patients with chronic kidney disease reducing the need for blood transfusions but raising the risks for cardiovascular events. We undertook this secondary analysis of subjects enrolled in the Correction of Hemoglobin and Outcomes in Renal Insufficiency (CHOIR) trial to examine the interrelationships between epoetin-alfa maintenance doses utilized and achieved hemoglobin (Hb) irrespective of treatment target and randomized allocation. METHODS We performed a post hoc analysis from the CHOIR trial. Inclusion criteria were Hb <11.0 g/dl and estimated glomerular filtration rates of 15-50 ml/min/1.73 m(2). To be included in the present analysis, subjects needed to be free of the composite event at 4 months, receive epoetin-alfa, and have ≥1 postbaseline Hb measurement. The mean weekly dose of epoetin-alfa received up to the time of first event or censure was the main exposure variable, while the achieved Hb at month 4 was the confounder representing the subject's underlying response to treatment. The primary outcome was the composite of death, heart failure hospitalization, stroke, or myocardial infarction. A Cox proportional hazard regression model was used in time-to-event analysis. RESULTS Among 1,244 subjects with complete data, the average weekly dose of epoetin-alfa ranged 143.3-fold from 133 to 19,106 units/week at the time of first event or censure. Cox proportional hazard analysis found that those in the middle tertile of Hb achieved (>11.5 to <12.7 g/dl) and the lowest tertile of epoetin-alfa dose exposure level (<5,164 units/week) had the lowest risk. Irrespective of Hb achieved, the relative risk in the highest tertile (>10,095 units/week) of epoetin-alfa dose exposure level was significantly escalated (hazard ratios ranged from 2.536 to 3.572, p < 0.05, when compared to the group of middle Hb tertile and lowered dose tertile). In a multivariable model that adjusted for achieved Hb, albumin, cholesterol, age, prior heart failure, prior stroke, prior deep venous thrombosis, atrial fibrillation or malignancy, the average weekly dose had a significant (p = 0.005) relative risk of 1.067 per 1,000 units of epoetin-alfa for the primary end point. CONCLUSIONS In the CHOIR trial, average epoetin-alfa doses >10,095 units/week were associated with increased risks for cardiovascular events irrespective of the Hb achieved within the first 4 months of treatment. These data suggest the weekly epoetin-alfa dose and not the Hb achieved was a principal determinant in the primary outcome observed implicating a cardiovascular toxicity of this erythrocyte-stimulating agent.
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Induction of erythropoiesis using human vascular networks genetically engineered for controlled erythropoietin release. Blood 2011; 118:5420-8. [PMID: 21937702 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2011-08-372946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
For decades, autologous ex vivo gene therapy has been postulated as a potential alternative to parenteral administration of recombinant proteins. However, achieving effective cellular engraftment of previously retrieved patient cells is challenging. Recently, our ability to engineer vasculature in vivo has allowed for the introduction of instructions into tissues by genetically modifying the vascular cells that build these blood vessels. In the present study, we genetically engineered human blood-derived endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFCs) to express erythropoietin (EPO) under the control of a tetracycline-regulated system, and generated subcutaneous vascular networks capable of systemic EPO release in immunodeficient mice. These ECFC-lined vascular networks formed functional anastomoses with the mouse vasculature, allowing direct delivery of recombinant human EPO into the bloodstream. After activation of EPO expression, erythropoiesis was induced in both normal and anemic mice, a process that was completely reversible. This approach could relieve patients from frequent EPO injections, reducing the medical costs associated with the management of anemia. We propose this ECFC-based gene-delivery strategy as a viable alternative technology when routine administration of recombinant proteins is needed.
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Fukuma S, Yamaguchi T, Hashimoto S, Nakai S, Iseki K, Tsubakihara Y, Fukuhara S. Erythropoiesis-stimulating agent responsiveness and mortality in hemodialysis patients: results from a cohort study from the dialysis registry in Japan. Am J Kidney Dis 2011; 59:108-16. [PMID: 21890255 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2011.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2011] [Accepted: 07/13/2011] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patient responsiveness to erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs), notoriously difficult to measure, has attracted attention for its association with mortality. We defined categories of ESA responsiveness and attempted to clarify their association with mortality. STUDY DESIGN Cohort study. SETTING & PARTICIPANTS Data from Japan's dialysis registry (2005-2006), including 95,460 adult hemodialysis patients who received ESAs. PREDICTOR We defined 6 categories of ESA responsiveness based on a combination of ESA dosage (low [<6,000 U/wk] or high [≥6,000 U/wk]) and hemoglobin level (low [<10 g/dL], medium [10-11.9 g/dL], or high [≥12 g/dL]), with medium hemoglobin level and low-dose ESA therapy as the reference category. OUTCOMES All-cause and cardiovascular mortality during 1-year follow-up. MEASUREMENTS HRs were estimated using a Cox model for the association between responsiveness categories and mortality, adjusting for potential confounders such as age, sex, postdialysis weight, dialysis duration, comorbid conditions, serum albumin level, and transferrin saturation. RESULTS Median ESA dosage (4,500-5,999 U/wk) was used as a cutoff point, and mean hemoglobin level was 10.1 g/dL in our cohort. Of 95,460 patients during follow-up, 7,205 (7.5%) died of all causes, including 5,586 (5.9%) cardiovascular deaths. Low hemoglobin levels and high-dose ESA therapy were both associated with all-cause mortality (adjusted HRs, 1.18 [95% CI, 1.09-1.27] for low hemoglobin level with low-dose ESA and 1.44 [95% CI, 1.34-1.55] for medium hemoglobin level with high-dose ESA). Adjusted HRs for high-dose ESA with low hemoglobin level (hyporesponsiveness) were 1.94 (95% CI, 1.82-2.07) for all-cause and 2.02 (95% CI, 1.88-2.17) for cardiovascular mortality. We also noted the interaction between ESA dosage and hemoglobin level on all-cause mortality (likelihood ratio test, P = 0.002). LIMITATIONS Potential residual confounding from unmeasured factors and single measurement of predictors. CONCLUSIONS Mortality can be affected by ESA responsiveness, which may include independent and interactive effects of ESA dose and hemoglobin level. Responsiveness category has prognostic importance and clinical relevance in anemia management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shingo Fukuma
- Department of Epidemiology and Healthcare Research, Graduate School of Medicine and Public Health, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
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Costenbader KH, Desai A, Alarcón GS, Hiraki LT, Shaykevich T, Brookhart MA, Massarotti E, Lu B, Solomon DH, Winkelmayer WC. Trends in the incidence, demographics, and outcomes of end-stage renal disease due to lupus nephritis in the US from 1995 to 2006. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 63:1681-8. [PMID: 21445962 DOI: 10.1002/art.30293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was undertaken to investigate whether recent advances in lupus nephritis treatment have led to changes in the incidence of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) secondary to lupus nephritis, or in the characteristics, treatments, and outcomes of patients with lupus nephritis ESRD. METHODS Patients with incident lupus nephritis ESRD (1995-2006) were identified in the US Renal Data System. Trends in sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were assessed. We tested for temporal changes in standardized incidence rates (SIRs) for sociodemographic groups using Poisson regression. Changes in rates of waitlisting for kidney transplant, kidney transplantation, and all-cause mortality were examined using crude and adjusted time-to-event analyses. RESULTS We identified 12,344 incident cases of lupus nephritis ESRD. Mean age at ESRD onset was 41 years; 81.6% of the patients were women and 49.5% were African American. SIRs for lupus nephritis ESRD among those who were ages 5-39 years, African American, or lived in the southeastern US increased significantly from 1995 to 2006. Increases in body mass index and in the prevalence of both diabetes mellitus and hypertension were detected. Mean serum hemoglobin level at ESRD onset increased, while that of serum creatinine decreased over time. More patients received hemodialysis and fewer received peritoneal dialysis. There was a slight increase in the frequency of preemptive kidney transplantation at ESRD onset, but kidney transplantation rates within the first 3 years of ESRD declined. Mortality did not change over the 12 years of study. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that the characteristics of patients with lupus nephritis ESRD and initial therapies have changed in recent years. While SIRs rose in younger patients, among African Americans, and in the South, outcomes did not improve in over a decade of evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen H Costenbader
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.
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Mikhail A, Shrivastava R, Richardson D. Renal Association Clinical Practice Guideline on Anaemia of Chronic Kidney Disease. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 118 Suppl 1:c101-24. [DOI: 10.1159/000328063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2010] [Accepted: 11/15/2010] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Amer J, Dana M, Fibach E. The antioxidant effect of erythropoietin on thalassemic blood cells. Anemia 2010; 2010:978710. [PMID: 21490911 PMCID: PMC3065733 DOI: 10.1155/2010/978710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2010] [Accepted: 11/14/2010] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Because of its stimulating effect on RBC production, erythropoietin (Epo) is used to treat anemia, for example, in patients on dialysis or on chemotherapy. In β-thalassemia, where Epo levels are low relative to the degree of anemia, Epo treatment improves the anemia state. Since RBC and platelets of these patients are under oxidative stress, which may be involved in anemia and thromboembolic complications, we investigated Epo as an antioxidant. Using flow-cytometry technology, we found that in vitro treatment with Epo of blood cells from these patients increased their glutathione content and reduced their reactive oxygen species, membrane lipid peroxides, and external phosphatidylserine. This resulted in reduced susceptibility of RBC to undergo hemolysis and phagocytosis. Injection of Epo into heterozygous (Hbb(th3/+)) β-thalassemic mice reduced the oxidative markers within 3 hours. Our results suggest that, in addition to stimulating RBC and fetal hemoglobin production, Epo might alleviate symptoms of hemolytic anemias as an antioxidant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johnny Amer
- Department of Hematology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Ein-Kerem, 91120 Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Mutaz Dana
- Department of Hematology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Ein-Kerem, 91120 Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Eitan Fibach
- Department of Hematology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Ein-Kerem, 91120 Jerusalem, Israel
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Ishani A, Guo H, Arneson TJ, Gilbertson DT, Mau LW, Li S, Dunning S, Collins AJ. Possible effects of the new Medicare reimbursement policy on African Americans with ESRD. J Am Soc Nephrol 2009; 20:1607-13. [PMID: 19389846 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2008080853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Areef Ishani
- Chronic Disease Research Group, Minneapolis Medical Research Foundation, 914 South 8th Street, Suite S-406, Minneapolis, MN 55404, USA.
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Messana JM, Chuang CC, Turenne M, Wheeler J, Turner J, Sleeman K, Tedeschi P, Hirth R. Association of quarterly average achieved hematocrit with mortality in dialysis patients: a time-dependent comorbidity-adjusted model. Am J Kidney Dis 2009; 53:503-12. [PMID: 19185402 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2008.10.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2008] [Accepted: 10/24/2008] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent publications suggest that increased mortality is associated with high hematocrit targets in erythropoietin-stimulating agent-treated patients with chronic kidney disease. We aim to further inform the debate about optimal hematocrit targets, advancing the hypothesis that the current hematocrit target may not optimize the survival of patients with end-stage renal disease. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional observational study. SETTING & PARTICIPANTS Medicare dialysis patients from 2002 to 2004 (n = 393,967). FACTORS Quarterly average hematocrit and erythropoietin alfa (EPO) dose. OUTCOMES Mortality hazard ratios from time-dependent Cox proportional hazard models, adjusting for comorbidities. RESULTS N = 2,712,197 patient-facility quarters. During the study, 100,086 deaths were identified. Percentages of patient quarters within each hematocrit category: hematocrit less than 27% (2.0%), 27% to 28.49% (1.7%), 28.5% to 29.9% (2.9%), 30% to 31.49% (5.2%), 31.5% to 32.99% (9.0%), 33% to 34.49% (14.9%), 34.5% to 35.99% (19.2%), 36% to 37.49% (18.0%), 37.5% to 38.99% (12.0%), 39% to 40.49% (6.4%), 40.5% to 41.99% (3.0%), and 42% or greater (3.1%). Mortality hazard ratios from the fully adjusted model: hematocrit less than 27% (3.11), 27% to 28.49% (2.60), 28.5% to 29.9% (2.14), 30% to 31.49% (1.80), 31.5% to 32.99% (1.44), 33% to 34.49% (1.17), 34.5% to 35.99% (reference), 36% to 37.49% (0.98), 37.5% to 38.99% (1.01), 39% to 40.49% (1.13), 40.5% to 41.99% (1.32), and 42% or greater (1.57). LIMITATIONS First, potential confounding by indication related to associations between underlying illness and mortality, anemia, and EPO responsiveness. Second, Medicare claims data reflect a range of conditions and degrees of severity not easily translated into the clinical context. Third, for Medicare claims, EPO reporting is not required if EPO is not billed. Greater than 95% of "missing hematocrit" quarters are "EPO = 0" patient quarters. Interpretation of results for the missing hematocrit and EPO = 0 use categories is complicated by data source limitations. CONCLUSIONS We show an association between mortality and low hematocrit in dialysis patients, in part reflecting the presence of comorbidities. We also show an association between increased mortality and high hematocrit. Additional interventional trials should be undertaken to better define the optimal target for anemia management in patients with end-stage renal disease, with careful prospective identification of underlying comorbidities and clinical factors contributing to high erythropoietin-stimulating agent requirement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph M Messana
- Division of Nephrology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5364, USA.
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Singh AK. The controversy surrounding hemoglobin and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents: what should we do now? Am J Kidney Dis 2008; 52:S5-13. [PMID: 19010260 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2008.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2008] [Accepted: 09/08/2008] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Treatment of the anemia of chronic kidney disease (CKD) with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) has been intensely debated during the past 2 years. Treatment with ESAs has transformed the lives of millions of patients with CKD, with fewer blood transfusions and improved quality of life. However, randomized trials have suggested that targeting greater hematocrits/hemoglobin levels and/or exposure to high doses of ESAs is associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular complications and mortality. The US Food and Drug Administration has inserted a boxed warning for ESAs and, along with the National Kidney Foundation-Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI), decreased recommended target hemoglobin ranges for ESA therapy. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has decreased ESA dosing recommendations in the Medicare claims policy for ESAs. Managing the anemia of CKD in the era of the hemoglobin level and ESA controversy has required aiming for appropriate hemoglobin levels, using the lowest effective ESA dose, and better managing the problem of ESA hyporesponsiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajay K Singh
- Renal Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Leaf DE, Goldfarb DS. Interpretation and review of health-related quality of life data in CKD patients receiving treatment for anemia. Kidney Int 2008; 75:15-24. [PMID: 18813284 DOI: 10.1038/ki.2008.414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests that targeting higher hemoglobin values with erythropoiesis stimulating agents (ESAs) may lack mortality benefits and may even result in adverse cardiovascular complications when used in chronic kidney disease patients. However, ESAs are frequently reported to result in improvements in health-related quality of life (HRQOL). The purpose of this review is to evaluate the magnitude and nature of ESA-associated improvements in HRQOL, as well as to understand how to interpret the clinical significance of HRQOL data. HRQOL findings should be analyzed not by statistical significance but rather by using a minimal clinically important difference approach, or, alternatively, a distribution-based approach (such as Cohen's effect size). HRQOL domains that are most improved with ESAs relate to physical symptoms, vitality, energy, and performance; domains of social functioning and mental health show modest improvement, whereas the domains of emotional functioning and pain show very little improvement. Additional domains not measured by commonly used instruments (such as the SF-36) that have been shown to improve with ESAs include sleep, cognitive functioning, and sexual functioning. The maximal increase in HRQOL per incremental increase in hemoglobin appears to occur in the range of 10-12 g/dl. Beyond this range, additional normalization of hemoglobin (to 12-14 g/dl) results in continued (albeit blunted) improvements in HRQOL.
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Affiliation(s)
- David E Leaf
- Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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Szczech LA, Barnhart HX, Inrig JK, Reddan DN, Sapp S, Califf RM, Patel UD, Singh AK. Secondary analysis of the CHOIR trial epoetin-alpha dose and achieved hemoglobin outcomes. Kidney Int 2008; 74:791-8. [PMID: 18596733 DOI: 10.1038/ki.2008.295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 395] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Trials of anemia correction in chronic kidney disease have found either no benefit or detrimental outcomes of higher targets. We did a secondary analysis of patients with chronic kidney disease enrolled in the Correction of Hemoglobin in the Outcomes in Renal Insufficiency trial to measure the potential for competing benefit and harm from achieved hemoglobin and epoetin dose trials. In the 4 month analysis, significantly more patients in the high-hemoglobin compared to the low-hemoglobin arm were unable to achieve target hemoglobin and required high-dose epoetin-alpha. In unadjusted analyses, the inability to achieve a target hemoglobin and high-dose epoetin-alpha were each significantly associated with increased risk of a primary endpoint (death, myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure or stroke). In adjusted models, high-dose epoetin-alpha was associated with a significant increased hazard of a primary endpoint but the risk associated with randomization to the high hemoglobin arm did not suggest a possible mediating effect of higher target via dose. Similar results were seen in the 9 month analysis. Our study demonstrates that patients achieving their target had better outcomes than those who did not; and among subjects who achieved their randomized target, no increased risk associated with the higher hemoglobin goal was detected. Prospective studies are needed to confirm this relationship and determine safe dosing algorithms for patients unable to achieve target hemoglobin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynda A Szczech
- Department of Medicine, The Renal Division, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA.
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Lea JP, Norris K, Agodoa L. The role of anemia management in improving outcomes for African-Americans with chronic kidney disease. Am J Nephrol 2008; 28:732-43. [PMID: 18434712 DOI: 10.1159/000127981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2007] [Accepted: 03/04/2008] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a serious threat to African-American public health. In this population CKD progresses to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) at quadruple the rate in Caucasians. Factors fueling progression to ESRD include diabetes and hypertension, which show high prevalences and accelerated renal damage in African- Americans, as well as possible nutritional, socioeconomic, and genetic factors. Anemia, a common and deleterious complication of CKD, is more prevalent and severe in African-American than Caucasian patients at each stage of the disease. Proactive management of diabetes, hypertension, anemia, and other complications throughout the course of CKD can prevent or delay disease progression and alleviate the burden of ESRD for the African-American community. Currently, African-Americans with CKD are less likely than Caucasian patients to receive anemia treatment before and after the onset of dialysis. Although African-Americans often require higher doses of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents, this may result from late treatment initiation, lower hemoglobin levels, or the presence of comorbidities such as diabetes and inflammation, although racial differences in response cannot be excluded. This review explores racial-specific challenges and potential solutions in renal anemia management to improve outcomes in African-American patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice P Lea
- Department of Medicine, Renal Division, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30308, USA.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND For 20 years, anemia has been treated with erythropoietin-stimulating agents (ESA). Until recently there have been only two ESA: recombinant erythropoietin and darbepoetin. In 2007 a third agent was approved for clinical use, CERA. METHODS This review covers all of the peer-reviewed literature regarding ESA. The review also covers unique aspects of the regulatory publications with the FDA and European Agency for the Evaluation of Medicinal Products. RESULTS CERA is effective at correcting renal anemia. Compared to previous ESA, CERA has a dramatically lengthened half-life, making it the only ESA licensed for once-a-month dosing. However, like the previous ESA, CERA has not been shown to reduce morbidity or mortality and has only been shown to correct anemia and improve quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Michels Topf
- St. John Hospital and Medical Center, Chronic Kidney Disease Clinics, 22201 Moross Road, Suite 150, Detroit, Michigan 48236, USA.
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Chan KE, Lafayette RA, Whittemore AS, Hlatky MA, Moran J. Facility factors dominate the ability to achieve target haemoglobin levels in haemodialysis patients. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2008; 23:2948-56. [DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfn172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Abstract
Nearly all dialysis patients receive epoetin therapy to treat anemia. Using the United States Renal Data System, we monitored the 14,001 patients aged 65 and older who started dialysis and epoetin treatment in 2003-2004. We estimated the dose-response relationship for the average epoetin dose and hematocrit during a 3-month initiation and subsequent 3-month maintenance phase using a marginal structural model to adjust for measured time-dependent confounding by indication. During the initiation phase, an S-shaped dose-response relationship for average weekly epoetin dose and hematocrit response was found. Average hematocrit levels rose as the epoetin dose was increased from 9,000 to approximately 22,500 units per week. At higher doses, the effect of increasing epoetin was minimal with average hematocrit levels plateauing at 38.5%, but this was less evident in the maintenance phase. Among patients who reached this phase, doses required to maintain the hematocrit level were lower than those required to achieve similar hematocrit levels in the initiation phase. The dose-response curve found in our study suggests that published recommendations for starting dose are appropriate, and a starting dose of 7,500-15,000 units per week can maintain the hematocrit level in the desired target range of 33-36%.
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Locatelli F, Del Vecchio L, Pozzoni P, Andrulli S. Dialysis adequacy and response to erythropoiesis-stimulating agents: what is the evidence base? Semin Nephrol 2007; 26:269-74. [PMID: 16949464 DOI: 10.1016/j.semnephrol.2006.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Despite an increase in the use and average dose of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESA) over the past 15 years, a substantial percentage of patients still do not achieve hemoglobin targets recommended by international guidelines. A clear relationship among hemoglobin or hematocrit levels, ESA dose, and increase in dialysis dose has been pointed out by a number of prospective or retrospective studies. This is particularly true in patients receiving inadequate dialysis. Increasing attention also has been paid to the relationship between dialysis, increased inflammatory stimulus, and ESA response because dialysate contamination and low-compatible treatments may increase cytokine production and consequently inhibit erythropoiesis. The biocompatibility of dialysis membranes and flux are other important factors. However, in highly selected, adequately dialyzed patients without iron or vitamin depletion, the effect of these treatment modalities on anemia seems to be smaller than expected. The role of on-line treatments still is controversial given that it is still difficult to discriminate between the effect of on-line hemodiafiltration per se from that of an increased dialysis dose. Very preliminary results obtained with short or long nocturnal daily hemodialysis on anemia correction are encouraging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Locatelli
- The Department of Nephrology and Dialysis, Ospedale A. Manzoni, Lecco, Italy.
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Pizzi LT, Patel NM, Maio VM, Goldfarb DS, Michael B, Fuhr JP, Goldfarb NI. Economic implications of non-adherence to treatment recommendations for hemodialysis patients with anemia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006. [DOI: 10.1002/dat.20064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Roberts TL, Foley RN, Weinhandl ED, Gilbertson DT, Collins AJ. Anaemia and mortality in haemodialysis patients: interaction of propensity score for predicted anaemia and actual haemoglobin levels. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2006; 21:1652-62. [PMID: 16449283 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfk095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Haemoglobin levels in haemodialysis patients could represent unknown comorbidities, more severe levels of known comorbidities, as well as therapeutic choice. Thus, integrating factors predictive of anaemia with actual haemoglobin levels might improve prognostic discrimination. METHODS We retrospectively studied 93,087 patients who started haemodialysis between 1998 and 2000. Clinical and treatment factors from months 4 through 9, derived from Medicare claims, were used to develop propensity scores for anaemia (mean haemoglobin <11 g/dl). Tertiles of propensity scores were interacted with five levels of actual mean haemoglobin to form 15 groups, ranging from low (anaemia) probability with (mean) haemoglobin <10 g/dl to high probability with haemoglobin >or=13 g/dl. Cox proportional hazards regression evaluated mortality and first hospitalization among these groups. RESULTS The anaemia propensity score improved overall prognostic discrimination. Propensity score adjustment significantly improved prediction of mortality (P<0.0001) after covariate adjustments including haemoglobin. For mortality, the highest and lowest adjusted hazard ratios (AHR) appeared in these groups, respectively: high probability with haemoglobin <10 g/dl (AHR 1.64 [1.54, 1.75], P<0.0001), and low probability with haemoglobin 12 to <13 g/dl (AHR 0.79 [0.74, 0.85], P<0.0001). Higher haemoglobin levels were associated with lower mortality even after propensity score adjustment. Similar patterns resulted for first hospitalization; however, the interaction was significant only for hospitalization (P = 0. 0212). CONCLUSIONS Integrating factors predictive of anaemia improves overall prognostic discrimination. Propensity score adjustment refines the prognostic association of haemoglobin levels in haemodialysis patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tricia L Roberts
- Chronic Disease Research Group, Minneapolis Medical Research Foundation, 914 South 8th Street, MN 55404, USA
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McClellan WM, Jurkovitz C, Abramson J. The epidemiology and control of anaemia among pre-ESRD patients with chronic kidney disease. Eur J Clin Invest 2005; 35 Suppl 3:58-65. [PMID: 16281960 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2362.2005.01532.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Anaemia is a common condition among pre-end-stage renal disease (pre-ESRD) patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Indeed, data from clinical studies indicate that anaemia may be present in as many as two-thirds of such patients. Use of recombinant human erythropoietin (EPO) provides an effective means of correcting anaemia in CKD patients and helps to reduce the risk of renal disease progression and related problems. Unfortunately, EPO therapy is underutilized in these persons. Consequently, anaemia remains a major problem in the pre-ESRD CKD population. Evidence suggests that anaemia in the presence of CKD can lead to an increased risk of a number of adverse outcomes, including mortality, progression of kidney disease, coronary heart disease, stroke, hospitalization, and decreases in quality of life. Anaemia's association with these adverse outcomes suggests that effective treatment of anaemia in pre-ESRD CKD patients is of great importance and that substantial efforts should be made to ensure that these patients receive appropriate therapy to correct anaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- W M McClellan
- Rollins School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30346, USA.
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Robinson BM, Joffe MM, Berns JS, Pisoni RL, Port FK, Feldman HI. Anemia and mortality in hemodialysis patients: Accounting for morbidity and treatment variables updated over time. Kidney Int 2005; 68:2323-30. [PMID: 16221236 DOI: 10.1111/j.1523-1755.2005.00693.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this study was to gain insight into the associations of anemia with mortality among maintenance hemodialysis (HD) patients and patient subgroups by an analysis that more comprehensively represents hemoglobin (Hb) level, morbidity, and treatment characteristics over time than was possible in prior observational studies. METHODS A cohort study was conducted among 5517 subjects in the American arm of the Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study Phase I. We used proportional hazard analysis to model all-cause mortality as a function of Hb level measured 1, 3, and 6 months previously. Forty-five potentially confounding patient-level characteristics were considered, including demographics, comorbidities, and time-updated levels of erythropoietin and parenteral iron dosing, medical events, and laboratory and dialysis measures. RESULTS Compared to Hb 11 to <12 g/dL, subjects with Hb <11 g/dL had increased mortality [adjusted hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) in the 3-month-lagged model = 1.74 (1.24 to 2.43) for <9 g/dL, 1.25 (0.96 to 1.63) for 9 to <10 g/dL, and 1.22 (0.99 to 1.49) for 10 to <11 g/dL categories]. Mortality rates for subjects with Hb 12 to <13 g/dL and > or = 13 g/dL did not differ significantly from those with Hb 11 to <12 g/dL. The relationships between Hb and mortality varied modestly with changes in the time interval between Hb measurement and the time at risk for mortality, but did not vary according to ESRD vintage or health status indicators. CONCLUSION Our findings confirm the associations of Hb levels > or =11 g/dL with longer survival among maintenance HD patients, but show no additional survival advantage for patients with Hb levels > or =12 g/dL. Further investigation of the relationships among anemia, treatment of anemia, and survival is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce M Robinson
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, 19104, USA.
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30
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Appendices. Am J Kidney Dis 2005. [DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2005.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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31
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St Peter WL, Obrador GT, Roberts TL, Collins AJ. Trends in Intravenous Iron Use Among Dialysis Patients in the United States (1994-2002). Am J Kidney Dis 2005; 46:650-60. [PMID: 16183420 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2005.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2005] [Accepted: 06/30/2005] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Two new intravenous (IV) iron products, ferric gluconate and iron sucrose, recently were approved for use in the United States. We report trends in IV iron use in both incident (1994 to 2001) and prevalent (1994 to 2002) Medicare US dialysis patients. METHODS Included patients had Medicare as a primary payer. Recombinant human erythropoietin doses, IV iron use, and hemoglobin data were obtained from Medicare outpatient files. The most recent cohorts included 241,770 prevalent hemodialysis (HD) patients in 2002 and 11,744 incident HD patients in 2001. RESULTS For incident HD patients in the first 9 months of dialysis therapy, the percentage of patients administered IV iron increased sharply between 1994 and 1997 and then increased gradually between 1997 and 2001. In 2002, a total of 84.4% of HD and 19.3% of peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients were administered IV iron. Ferric gluconate use increased slowly in 2000, increased from 5.7% to 18.6% from December 2000 to January 2001, increased to 29.8% in April 2002, and was 23.3% in December 2002. Iron sucrose use increased to 26% by December 2002. The absolute monthly percentage of HD patients administered IV iron dextran decreased from 49.6% in January 2000 to 3.6% in December 2002. CONCLUSION In US patients with end-stage renal disease, IV iron use has increased, although slowly, from 1997 to 2002. Ferric gluconate and iron sucrose have become the predominant form of therapy. IV iron therapy was used in a much smaller percentage of PD compared with HD patients, and racial and geographic variability was observed.
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Warady BA, Zobrist RH, Wu J, Finan E. Sodium ferric gluconate complex therapy in anemic children on hemodialysis. Pediatr Nephrol 2005; 20:1320-7. [PMID: 15971073 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-005-1904-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2004] [Revised: 01/28/2005] [Accepted: 01/28/2005] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing hemodialysis (HD) frequently develop anemia. Administration of recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) is effective in managing this anemia, although the additional demand for iron often results in iron deficiency. In adult patients undergoing HD, intravenous (IV) iron administration is known to replenish iron stores more effectively than oral iron administration. Nevertheless, IV iron supplementation is underutilized in pediatric patients, possibly because of unproved safety in this population. This international, multicenter study investigated the safety and efficacy of two dosing regimens (1.5 mg kg(-1) and 3.0 mg kg(-1)) of sodium ferric gluconate complex (SFGC) therapy, during eight consecutive HD sessions, in iron-deficient pediatric HD patients receiving concomitant rHuEPO therapy. Safety was evaluated in 66 patients and efficacy was evaluated in 56 patients. Significant increases from baseline were observed in both treatment groups 2 and 4 weeks after cessation of SFGC dosing for mean hemoglobin, hematocrit, transferrin saturation, serum ferritin, and reticulocyte hemoglobin content. Efficacy and safety profiles were comparable for 1.5 mg kg(-1) and 3.0 mg kg(-1) SFGC with no unexpected adverse events with either dose. Administration of SFGC was safe and efficacious in the pediatric HD population. Given the equivalent efficacy of the two doses, an initial dosing regimen of 1.5 mg kg(-1) is recommended for pediatric HD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley A Warady
- The Children's Mercy Hospital, 2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA.
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Berns JS, Fishbane S, Elzein H, Lynn RI, Deoreo PB, Tharpe DL, Meisels IS. The effect of a change in epoetin alfa reimbursement policy on anemia outcomes in hemodialysis patients. Hemodial Int 2005; 9:255-63. [PMID: 16191075 DOI: 10.1111/j.1492-7535.2005.01139.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In 1997, the Health Care Financing Administration Hematocrit Measurement Audit (HMA) program initiated use of a 3-month rolling average hematocrit (Hct) level for reimbursement of epoetin claims in hemodialysis patients, with denial of payment when this value exceeded 36.5%. This study evaluated the impact of the HMA program on anemia-related outcomes in hemodialysis patients. An observational, retrospective study of 987 hemodialysis patients from 11 dialysis centers in the United States was performed, collecting data between October 1996 and December 1997. Centers were selected from a pool of nearly all facilities in the United States, which during May 1997 satisfied one of two criteria: greater than 75% of patients at the facility had mean Hct level of > or =33% (Group A) or fewer than 50% of patients at the facility had mean Hct level of > or =33% (Group B). Each facility maintained its own anemia management practices without specific anemia management interventions as part of this study. Hct level, hemoglobin (Hb) level, and epoetin dose were analyzed to compare the pre-HMA period (October 1996 to May 1997) to the HMA period (June to December 1997) and/or for each of the five quarters of the study period. The primary study endpoint was the percentage of patients with Hct levels of > or =33% during each study quarter. The mean Hct level at baseline was 34% in Group A and 33.4% in Group B (p = 0.01). Hct levels, which were increasing before implementation of the HMA program, decreased during the HMA period (p < 0.001 and p = 0.013 in Groups A and B, respectively). The percentage of patients in Groups A and B with mean quarterly Hct levels of > or =33% decreased during the last quarter of the HMA implementation period compared to the quarter immediately preceding the start of the HMA program (p < 0.001 for both comparisons). Changes in Hb levels were similar to those seen in Hct levels. The mean epoetin dose administered decreased from 13,090 U/week at the start of the study to 11,884 U/week immediately before the HMA program took effect (p < 0.05). The HMA program adversely affected anemia treatment outcomes, regardless of whether dialysis units before HMA implementation had <50% of patients with a Hct level of > or =33% or had >75% of patients with a Hct level of > or =33%. The decline in mean weekly dose of epoetin was likely a result of withholding doses out of concern among providers about risk of reimbursement denial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey S Berns
- University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19146, USA.
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Brimble KS, Rabbat CG, McKenna P, Lambert K, Carlisle EJ. Protocolized anemia management with erythropoietin in hemodialysis patients: a randomized controlled trial. J Am Soc Nephrol 2004; 14:2654-61. [PMID: 14514745 DOI: 10.1097/01.asn.0000088026.88074.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment of the anemia of chronic renal failure with exogenous recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEpo) is well established. The objective of this randomized clinical trial was to evaluate an anemia management team protocol in hemodialysis patients, using subcutaneous rHuEpo and intravenous iron. A total of 215 patients were randomized to either usual care or the protocol. The primary outcome was the proportion of patient hemoglobin (Hgb) values between 11.0 and 12.5 g/dl over the final 8 wk. The study was halted after 240 d because of an institutional change to intravenous rHuEpo. The proportion of Hgb values in the target range increased from 47.4% to 62.8% overall (P = 0.001); there was no difference between treatment groups. The proportion of baseline Hgb values between 11.0 and 12.5 g/dl increased from 44.6% in patients who had enrolled within the first 3 mo of study inception to 75.0% in those who started later (P = 0.017), suggesting a Hawthorne effect. A nonsignificant decrease in rHuEpo dose was observed in the protocol group; subgroup analysis in patients who were enrolled for at least 5 mo demonstrated a reduction in the rHuEpo dose of 2788 units/wk in the protocol group (P < 0.05), independent of intravenous iron dose. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that a higher transferrin saturation and albumin and protocol group assignment were associated with a lower final rHuEpo dose. This study demonstrated that a protocolized approach to anemia management in hemodialysis patients results in comparable Hgb levels and may reduce rHuEpo requirements, independent of iron use.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Scott Brimble
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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Myssina S, Huber SM, Birka C, Lang PA, Lang KS, Friedrich B, Risler T, Wieder T, Lang F. Inhibition of erythrocyte cation channels by erythropoietin. J Am Soc Nephrol 2004; 14:2750-7. [PMID: 14569084 DOI: 10.1097/01.asn.0000093253.42641.c1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Recombinant human erythropoietin therapy is used to counteract anemia that is the result of renal insufficiency. It stimulates the formation of peripheral blood erythrocytes by inhibiting apoptosis of erythrocyte precursor cells. Mature erythrocytes have similarly been shown to undergo apoptosis. Hyperosmotic shock and Cl(-) removal activate a Ca(2+)-permeable, ethylisopropylamiloride-inhibitable cation channel. The subsequent increase of cytosolic Ca(2+) activates a scramblase that breaks down cell membrane phosphatidylserine asymmetry, leading to annexin binding. Studied was whether channel activity and erythrocyte cell death are regulated by erythropoietin. Scatchard plot analysis disclosed low-abundance, high-affinity binding of (125)I-erythropoietin to erythrocytes. Whole cell patch clamp experiments revealed significant inhibition of the ethylisopropylamiloride-sensitive current by 1 U/ml erythropoietin. Cl(-) removal triggered annexin binding, an effect abrogated by erythropoietin (1 U/ml) but not by GM-CSF (10 ng/ml). Osmotic shock (700 mOsm) stimulated annexin binding within 24 h in the majority of the erythrocytes, an effect blunted by erythropoietin (1 U/ml) but not by GM-CSF (10 ng/ml). In the nominal absence of Ca(2+), the effect of osmotic shock was blunted and the effect of erythropoietin abolished. In hemodialysis patients, intravenous administration of erythropoietin (50 IU/kg) within 4 h decreased the number of annexin binding circulating erythrocytes. Erythropoietin binds to erythrocytes and inhibits volume-sensitive erythrocyte cation channels and thus the breakdown of phosphatidylserine asymmetry after activation of this channel. The effect could prolong the erythrocyte lifespan and may contribute to the enhancement of the erythrocyte number during erythropoietin therapy in dialysis patients.
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Rao M, Muirhead N, Klarenbach S, Moist L, Lindsay RM. Management of anemia with quotidian hemodialysis. Am J Kidney Dis 2003; 42:18-23. [PMID: 12830439 DOI: 10.1016/s0272-6386(03)00533-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most patients with end-stage renal disease have chronic anemia caused by inadequate erythropoietin (EPO) synthesis and require therapy with exogenous EPO to maintain recommended hematocrit and hemoglobin levels. METHODS The London Daily/Nocturnal Hemodialysis Study compared anemia control among patients on either short daily, long nocturnal, or conventional thrice-weekly hemodialysis (HD) therapy. Patients were administered iron, either orally (900 mg/d) or intravenously (50 to 125 mg every 1 to 4 weeks), to maintain serum ferritin levels at greater than 45 ng/mL (100 microg/L) or transferrin saturations greater than 20%. EPO was administered by subcutaneous injection at frequencies ranging from twice weekly to once every second week to maintain hemoglobin levels within the target range of 11 to 12 g/dL (110 to 120 g/L). RESULTS Both the daily HD and nocturnal HD study groups showed increased hemoglobin levels at later times compared with baseline levels, although only nocturnal HD patients had a statistically significant increase in hemoglobin levels at 18 months (11.94 g/dL [119.4 g/L] versus 10.95 g/dL [109.5 g/L] at baseline; P = 0.047). Both the daily HD and control groups showed a trend for decreased EPO dose requirements at later times compared with baseline, although these decreases were not statistically significant. The nocturnal HD group showed increased EPO dose requirements, although not statistically significant. CONCLUSION Quotidian HD is associated with an increased quantity of blood loss that can account for some of the increased requirements in EPO dose. Additional studies with larger numbers of patients are needed to fully elucidate the effects of quotidian HD on anemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myura Rao
- Optimal Dialysis Research Unit, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
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37
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Owen WF. Patterns of care for patients with chronic kidney disease in the United States: dying for improvement. J Am Soc Nephrol 2003; 14:S76-80. [PMID: 12819307 DOI: 10.1097/01.asn.0000070145.00225.ec] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The burden of chronic kidney disease can be assessed by multiple criteria that underscore the need for improved detection, treatment, and outcome monitoring. Several process measures for the care of advanced CKD patients are examined herein. Twenty seven and 11% of patients with CKD in National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) III had BP <140/90 and 130/85, respectively. In addition to inadequate prescription of antihypertensive drugs, another confounder is poor diagnostic recognition of CKD. Recent surveys of incident Medicare-eligible ESRD patients observed severe anemia in a preponderance of patients; mean and median hematocrit values were 27.7% +/- 5.9 and 27.8%, respectively. Only 23 to 28% of these patients were prescribed epoetin alfa. Clinical practice guidelines recommend that <10% of maintenance hemodialysis patients should be chronically dialyzed using percutaneous catheters. A recent national survey of vascular access types among incident American hemodialysis patients found that 30%, 41%, and 29% were dialyzing through a catheter, prosthetic graft, and autologous fistula, respectively. Tunneled catheters are associated with a 39% annual increased risk of death. Based on pharmacokinetic assumptions about the minimum amount of solute clearance by hemodialysis needed for patient survival in ESRD, a GFR of 10.5 ml/min per 1.73 m(2) is needed. The mean GFR of incident ESRD patients in the United States was 9.5 ml/min per 1.73 m(2) in 2000. In addition to the wide international variability in modality treatment selection, geographic variability exists within the United States; <7 to >15% of the prevalent patients are treated by peritoneal dialysis across the country. Despite survival and quality-of-life benefits with transplantation, most eligible recipients in the United States have not been placed on a transplant waiting list 6 mo after beginning dialysis. Last, <40% of incident ESRD patients in the United States have received the recommended frequency of mammography, PAP examinations, or prostate-specific antigen (PSA) or HbA1c measurements. These deficiencies in care for patients with advanced CKD likely adversely influence the survival of US ESRD patients. Contemporary outcome information supports this contention. CKD patients referred to a nephrologist for the first time within 90 d of the start of dialysis have an approximately 40% to 60% increased risk of death during their first year of renal replacement therapy (RRT). Thirty-five percent of CKD patients are seen within 90 d of receiving RRT. In addition, if fewer than five nephrology visits occur, death risks are increased by 15%. These findings confirm the urgent need for improvement in healthcare delivery for CKD patient in the United States.
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Gu ML, Feng SL, Glenn JK. Development of an animal–human antibody complex for use as a control in ELISA. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2003; 32:523-9. [PMID: 14565557 DOI: 10.1016/s0731-7085(03)00156-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
In order to provide the equivalent of a human anti-human protein antibody as positive control in ELISAs, a goat-human antibody complex was created using chemical cross-linking. The resulting hybrid complex had a larger molecular size on HPLC and SDS-PAGE. In ELISA, the goat-human complex bound to human antigen and was detectable by a secondary anti-human conjugate. The method to make the hybrid complex is simple, cost-effective and can be used to make human-like antibodies to many human proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi Li Gu
- BioAnalytical Sciences Development Department, Human Genome Sciences Inc., Rockville, MD 20850, USA.
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39
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Tonelli M, Winkelmayer WC, Jindal KK, Owen WF, Manns BJ. The cost-effectiveness of maintaining higher hemoglobin targets with erythropoietin in hemodialysis patients. Kidney Int 2003; 64:295-304. [PMID: 12787422 DOI: 10.1046/j.1523-1755.2003.00079.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is uncertainty regarding the appropriate target hemoglobin level in hemodialysis patients treated with erythropoietin (EPO). METHODS We sought to determine the incremental cost-effectiveness of prescribing EPO to maintain different target hemoglobin levels, by incorporating the impact of EPO on health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL) issues and adopting the perspective of the health care purchaser. We evaluated the prescription of EPO to maintain target hemoglobin levels of 11.0 to 12.0, 12.0 to 12.5, and 14.0 g/dL, compared with 9.5 to 10.5 g/dL. Model outputs were quality-adjusted life expectancy and costs. RESULTS The base case analysis estimated intravenous EPO requirements to be 3523, 5078, 6097, and 9341 units three times per week to maintain targets of 9.5 to 10.5, 11.0 to 12.0, 12.0 to 12.5, and 14.0 g/dL, respectively. The cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained for the 11.0 to 12.0 g/dL target vs. 9.5 to 10.5 g/dL was $55,295 US. For the 12.0 to 12.5 g/dL target compared to 11.0 to 12.0 g/dL, and 14.0 g/dL target compared to 12.0 to 12.5 g/dL, the costs per QALY gained were $613,015 US and $828,215 US, respectively. In sensitivity analysis, clinically implausible reductions in hospitalization or EPO requirements associated with the two higher hemoglobin targets were required to make their incremental cost per QALY gained <$100,000 US. CONCLUSION Dosing intravenous EPO to achieve hemoglobin targets of 11.0 to 12.0 g/dL appears to be associated with incremental cost per QALY gained of $50,000 to $60,000, compared with a hemoglobin target of 9.5 to 10.5 g/dL. Aiming for hemoglobin targets in excess of 12.0 g/dL is associated with unfavorable cost-effectiveness ratios and should not be undertaken based on current data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcello Tonelli
- Division of Nephrology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Moe OW, Vazquez M, Kielar M. Iron metabolism in end stage renal failure: rationale for re-evaluation of parenteral iron therapy. Curr Opin Nephrol Hypertens 2003; 12:145-51. [PMID: 12589174 DOI: 10.1097/00041552-200303000-00004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW In this article we will examine the basis for using chronic high dose parenteral iron therapy in dialysis patients. RECENT FINDINGS There are increasing data that dialysis patients fare better in many respects if they have higher hematocrit values although the real optimal hematocrit has not been defined. There is an increasing tendency to use parenteral iron to achieve this goal. SUMMARY Although parenteral iron achieves seemingly favourable short results, there are no data for its safety in the long term. On the contrary, there are reasons to suggest possible iron overload with chronic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orson W Moe
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and Medical Service, Dallas 75390, USA.
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Szczech LA, Coladonato JA, Owen WF. Key concepts in biostatistics: using statistics to answer the question "is there a difference?". Semin Dial 2002; 15:347-51. [PMID: 12358639 DOI: 10.1046/j.1525-139x.2002.00085.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Biostatistics seeks to answer the question "Is there a difference?" in the rate of a disease or characteristic among subgroups of patients. The goal of this article is to introduce and define measures used in epidemiology and discuss different types of analyses in clinical research with an emphasis on the concepts and implications of the analyses rather than the mathematics. The implications of the use of measures such as incidence and prevalence, as well as odds, risk, and hazards ratios may affect study conclusions. An understanding of the distinction between these summary measures is essential. The concepts of univariate and multivariate analyses, a discussion of what it means to control for potential confounders, and a description of statistical power and significance are also presented. These concepts are integral to the design and analysis of clinical studies. An understanding of their advantages and applications will enhance the reader's ability to understand and evaluate the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynda Anne Szczech
- Institute for Renal Outcomes and Health Policy Research, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA.
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42
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Eschbach JW. Anemia management in chronic kidney disease: role of factors affecting epoetin responsiveness. J Am Soc Nephrol 2002; 13:1412-4. [PMID: 11961032 DOI: 10.1097/01.asn.0000016440.52271.f7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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