Green Nails, Red Alert: An Unusual Exit site infection Presentation

Green nail syndrome is an infectious nail disorder caused most commonly by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. We report a rare case of peritoneal dialysis (PD) exit site infection (ESI) accompanied by P. aeruginosa-associated green nail syndrome. The patient was treated with oral and topical antibiotics without the need for PD catheter removal. We aim to emphasise the importance of nail assessment for ESI in patients undergoing PD.

Polar vasculosis is associated with better kidney outcome in type 2 diabetes with biopsy-proven diabetic kidney disease: A multicenter cohort study

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

This multicenter cohort study retrospectively assessed the association between polar vasculosis and the progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) in type 2 diabetes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We enrolled 811 patients with type 2 diabetes, biopsy-proven DKD, and proteinuria (≥0.15 g/g creatinine [g/day]). The association between polar vasculosis and other kidney lesions was explored. The outcome was DKD progression defined as a composite of renal replacement therapy initiation or 50% decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) from baseline.

RESULTS

Of the 811 cases, 677 (83.5%) had polar vasculosis. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, subendothelial widening of the glomerular basement membrane, glomerulomegaly, glomerular class in the Renal Pathology Society classification ≥IIb, vascular lesions, age, eGFR, and hemoglobin A1c were positively associated with polar vasculosis, whereas interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (IFTA) was negatively associated with polar vasculosis. During a median follow-up of 5.2 years, progression of DKD occurred in 322 of 677 (7.4 events/100 person-years) and 79 of 134 (11.4 events/100 person-years) cases with and without polar vasculosis, respectively. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that polar vasculosis was associated with lower cumulative incidences of DKD progression. Multivariate Cox regression analyses showed that polar vasculosis was associated with a lower risk of DKD progression, regardless of eGFR or proteinuria subgroups. These associations between polar vasculosis and better kidney outcome were unchanged considering all-cause mortality before DKD progression as a competing event.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that polar vasculosis of DKD was associated with less advanced IFTA and a better kidney outcome in type 2 diabetes with proteinuria.

Achievement rate of target blood pressure in patients with hypertension treated by hypertension specialists and non-specialists in a real-world setting

Hypertension remains a major global healthcare issue. Considering that most Japanese patients with hypertension are managed by general practitioners, hypertension specialists should be involved in actual clinical practice. We investigated the blood pressure (BP), guidelines recommended for achievement rate of the target BP, and clinical variables of patients with hypertension treated by hypertension specialists and those treated by non-specialists in a real-world setting. Factors associated with the target BP achievement in this population were also investigated. Outpatients with hypertension from 12 medical facilities in Okinawa Prefecture were enrolled (n = 1469 [specialist group, 794; non-specialist group, 675]; mean age, 64.2 years; females, 45.8%). For all patients, BP and rate of the target BP achievement were 129.0 ± 15.5/74.6 ± 10.6 mmHg, and 51.8%, respectively. BP and the rate of target of BP achievement were 128.0 ± 15.1/73.4 ± 10.4 mmHg and 56.7% in the specialist group, and they were 130.1 ± 15.9/76.0 ± 10.8 mmHg and 46.1% in the non-specialist group. The urinary salt excretion and obesity rates were comparable between the specialist and non-specialist groups. Multivariable logistic analyses indicated that hypertension specialists and good medication adherence were positive factors, whereas obesity, chronic kidney disease, diabetes mellitus, and urinary salt excretion were inverse factors associated with target BP achievement in this population. Initiatives for salt reduction, medication adherence, and proper obesity management are crucial to improving BP management in patients with hypertension. Hypertension specialists are expected to play an essential role in them. For all patients, the target blood pressure (BP) achievement rate were 51.8%. Hypertension specialists and good medication adherence were positive factors in achieving target BP; conversely, obesity, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, and high urinary salt excretion were inverse factors in achieving target BP among patients with hypertension.

Urate-lowering drugs for chronic kidney disease with asymptomatic hyperuricemia and hypertension: a randomized trial

INTRODUCTION

Xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitors may slow down chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression. The comparative effectiveness of the different urate-lowering drugs is unknown. The aim of this study was to determine whether urate-lowering therapy with an XO inhibitor (febuxostat) and that with a uricosuric drug (benzbromarone) are comparable in slowing renal function decline in patients with CKD complicated with hypertension and hyperuricemia.

METHODS

This study was an open-label randomized parallel-group clinical trial of 95 patients with stage G3 CKD in Japan. The patients had hypertension and hyperuricemia without a history of gout. They were randomized to receive febuxostat ( n  = 47; febuxostat group) or benzbromarone ( n  = 48; benzbromarone group) and titrated to reduce their serum urate level to <6.0 mg/dl. The primary end-point was change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) from baseline to 52 weeks. The secondary end-points included changes in uric acid level, blood pressure, urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio, and XO activity.

RESULTS

Of the 95 patients, 88 (92.6%) completed the trial. There were no significant differences in change in eGFR (in ml/min/1.73 m 2 ) between the febuxostat [-0.23, 95% confidence interval (CI), -2.00 to 1.55] and benzbromarone (-2.18, 95% CI, -3.84 to -0.52) groups (difference, 1.95; 95% CI, -0.48 to 4.38; P  = 0.115) nor in the secondary end-points, except for XO activity. Febuxostat significantly reduced XO activity ( P  = 0.010). There were no significant differences in primary and secondary outcomes between the groups. A decrease in eGFR was significantly less in the febuxostat group than that of the benzbromarone group in the CKDG3a, but not in CKDG3b, in the subgroup analysis. There were no adverse effects specific to either drug.

CONCLUSIONS

No significant differences were found in the effects of febuxostat and benzbromarone in renal function decline in stage G3 CKD complicated with hyperuricemia and hypertension.

The Association of Smoking and Hyperuricemia with Renal Arteriolosclerosis in IgA Nephropathy

The combination effects of smoking (SMK) and hyperuricemia (HU) on renal arteriolosclerosis in patients with IgA nephropathy remain unknown. We examined the cross-sectional association between smoking (current or former) and renal arteriolar hyalinosis and wall thickening with or without HU [uric acid (UA) level ≥ 7 and ≥5 mg/dL in men and women] in 87 patients with IgA nephropathy who underwent renal biopsy. Arteriolar hyalinosis and wall thickening were assessed by the semiquantitative grading of arterioles. The SMK/HU subgroup showed the highest indices for hyalinosis and wall thickening, followed by the non-SMK/HU, SMK/non-HU, and non-SMK/non-HU subgroups. Multiple logistic analysis showed that SMK/HU, but not SMK/non-HU, was significantly associated with an increased risk of higher-grade renal arteriolar wall thickening. However, this did not occur with hyalinosis compared to non-SMK/non-HU. The adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval, p value) for SMK/HU was 12.8 (1.36-119, p < 0.05) for wall thickening. An association between SMK and renal arteriolar wall thickening might be prevalent only among patients with HU and in patients with IgA nephropathy. Further prospective studies are needed to determine whether patients with HU and SMK history exhibit rapid eGFR deterioration.

Association of blood pressure and hyperuricemia with proteinuria and reduced renal function in the general population

This study aimed to investigate the effect of hyperuricemia (HU) on the association of systolic blood pressure (SBP) with the prevalence of proteinuria and low estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in the general population. This cross-sectional study enrolled 24,728 Japanese individuals (11,137 men and 13,591 women) who underwent health checkups in 2010. The prevalence of proteinuria and low eGFR (< 60 mL/min/1.73 m2) among participants classified according to serum uric acid levels and SBP was compared. HU was defined as serum uric acid levels higher than the 75th percentile in male and female participants (> 7.2 and > 5.4 mg/dL, respectively). The odds ratio (OR) for proteinuria increased with elevated SBP. This trend was significantly evident in participants with HU. Moreover, there was an interactive effect of SBP and HU on the prevalence of proteinuria in the male (Pfor interaction = 0.04) and female (Pfor interaction = 0.04) participants. Next, we evaluated the OR for low eGFR (< 60 mL/min/1.73 m2) with and without proteinuria based on the presence of HU. The multivariate analysis revealed that the OR for low eGFR with proteinuria increased with elevated SBP, but that for low eGFR without proteinuria decreased. These trends of OR tended to be prevalent among those with HU. The association between SBP and the prevalence of proteinuria was more pronounced in participants with HU. However, the association between SBP and decreased renal function with and without proteinuria might be different regardless of HU.

Acquired factor V inhibitor with erythema and eosinophilia in a patient with end-stage renal disease

Autoimmune factor V deficiency (AiFVD) is a rare bleeding disorder caused by factor V inhibitors. In this report, we present the case of an 89-year-old man who developed bleeding tendency during surgery to create arteriovenous fistula for hemodialysis. The bleeding tendency developed with prolongation of activated partial thromboplastin and prothrombin time, following drug-induced eruption and eosinophilia. Significant reduction in coagulation factor activity and inhibitory pattern in cross-mixing tests suggested the presence of inhibitors to coagulation factors. Subsequently, we detected a factor V inhibitor and anti-factor V autoantibodies was confirmed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay with purified human plasma factor V. Thus, the patient was 'definitely diagnosed' with AiFVD in accordance with the diagnostic criteria enacted by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare. The bleeding tendency improved after initiating oral prednisolone 50 mg (1 mg/kg) followed by normalization of activated partial thromboplastin time and prothrombin time at the 34th day. After improving the coagulation system prolongation, the inhibitor and autoantibodies has been eradicated. Since it is suggested that drug-induced immune response can cause AiFVD, AiFVD should be considered in patients who undergo hemodialysis and develop failure of hemostasis and drug-induced eruption.

MO484: Gender Differences in the Incidence of End-Stage of Renal Disease in Okinawa

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and its progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) differ between genders, so it can be surmised that the incidence of ESRD is different between males and females. Acceptance of dialysis therapy may not necessarily be equal to the incidence of ESRD. Factors such as socio-economic conditions of the family, residential area, risk factors and compliance to the treatment of CKD are not equal among gender. We accessed the gender difference in incidence of ESRD and its risk factors in Okinawa, Japan, a major ESRD epidemic area.

METHOD

The Okinawa Dialysis Study (OKIDS) registry included all chronic dialysis patients treated in Okinawa, Japan, since 1971. We defined the ESRD as those who survived at least one month on scheduled dialysis therapy (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis) to exclude acute kidney injury. We analyzed the annual incidence of ESRD by gender for 30 years from 1971 to 2000. The incidence rate of ESRD was calculated as the number of incident dialysis patients divided by the census population of the previous year in each gender and expressed per million population (pmp). The number of dialysis facilities increased from 1 (1971) to 50 (2000). The census population was increased from 939 742 (1971) to 1 318 220 (2000) in Okinawa.

RESULTS

A total of 5264 patients, 2981 males and 2265 females, have initiated maintenance hemodialysis during the study period. The incidence rate of ESRD increased from 8.9 to 370 pmp in males and from 0 to 227 pmp in females between 1971 and 2000. The growth was fast and consistent throughout the period in males, while in females, the growth has become slower since 1990. After age-standardized, a similar trend was observed, which increased from 41 to 224 pmp in males and from 36 to 154 pmp in females between 1975 and 2000. For males and females, the age-specific incidence rate in the 60–79 year and &gt;80 year groups increased rapidly, and that in the 40–59 year group increased gradually, whereas in the 0–39 year group have been flat. The age-specific rate in the 60–79 year and &gt;80 year groups for males continued to increase throughout the period, while that for females peaked between 1990 and 1995. In the cause-specific incidence rate, the following trends were observed in males and females. The incident rate caused by chronic glomerular nephropathy increased from the 1970s to the 1980s and then leveled off, while that by diabetic nephropathy increased from the 1980s and that by nephrosclerosis increased from the 1990s. The marked growth was seen in the incident rate caused by diabetic nephropathy for both males and females. The rate increased 31 times for males and 12 times for females in the 20 years from 1981 to 2000. The age- and cause-specific incidence rate has risen remarkably among male diabetic nephropathy in &gt;60 years.

CONCLUSION

In Okinawa, the incidence rate of ESRD has increased significantly in males compared with females, and the gender difference has been widening. It was suggested that the increase in the number of males with diabetic nephropathy over the age of 60 contributed to this widening of the gender difference.

Association of urinary angiotensinogen with renal arteriolar remodeling in chronic kidney disease

OBJECTIVE

Renin-angiotensin system (RAS) might be associated with arteriolar remodeling. The present study aimed to explore the hitherto unknown relationship between renal RAS and renal arteriolar remodeling and to elucidate whether altered renal RAS subsequently affects renal function in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

METHODS

In this retrospective study, patients with various CKDs not using RAS inhibitors who underwent renal biopsy were included in cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses. Urinary angiotensinogen (UAGT) levels and wall/lumen ratio (WLR) were determined to evaluate renal RAS and renal arteriolar remodeling, respectively. The association between ln(UAGT) and ln(WLR) was cross-sectionally examined using a liner regression model. Furthermore, the association of ln(UAGT) with subsequent changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) per year were longitudinally examined in the largest subgroup of patients who were diagnosed with IgA nephropathy.

RESULTS

In the overall cohort (n = 54), the median age, blood pressures, eGFR, and WLR were 37 years, 120/73 mmHg, 85 ml/min per 1.73 m2, and 0.93, respectively. Ln(UAGT) was significantly and positively associated with ln(WLR) even after adjusting for classical and nonclassical clinical renal risk factors. In patients with IgA nephropathy, higher ln(UAGT) was associated with higher ln(WLR). Ln(UAGT) also tended to be associated with a greater decline in eGFR per year over a median period of 8.7 years, even after adjusting for potential confounding factors.

CONCLUSION

In patients with CKD, renal RAS might be associated with renal arteriolar remodeling and future decline in eGFR, independent of potential risk factors.

Salt and potassium intake evaluated with spot urine and brief questionnaires in combination with blood pressure control status in hypertensive outpatients in a real-world setting

Reducing salt and increasing potassium intake are recommended lifestyle modifications for patients with hypertension. The estimated 24-h urinary salt excretion value from spot urine using Tanaka's formula and the salt check-sheet scores, questionnaire-based scores of salt intake, are practical indices of daily salt intake. However, few studies have evaluated salt intake with these methods in hypertensive outpatients. We examined salt and potassium intake with the spot urine method and the salt check-sheet scores of hypertensive outpatients in a multi-facility, real-world setting and examined whether the salt or potassium intake evaluated with these methods related to inadequate blood pressure control. Hypertensive outpatients from 12 medical facilities in the Okinawa prefecture were enrolled from November 2011 to April 2014 (n = 1559, mean age 63.9 years, 46% women). The mean blood pressure, urinary salt excretion value, urinary potassium excretion value, and total score on the salt check-sheet were 129/75 mmHg, 8.7 g/day, 1.6 g/day, and 10.4 points, respectively. The urinary salt excretion value and total score on the salt check-sheet but not urinary potassium excretion value were associated with inadequate blood pressure control (≥140/90 mmHg). Higher body mass index, estimated glomerular filtration rate, urinary potassium excretion value, total score on the salt check-sheet, and presence of inadequate blood pressure control were associated with high urinary salt excretion (≥10.2 g/day). In conclusion, hypertensive outpatients with high urinary salt excretion values estimated using Tanaka's formula or with high scores on the salt check sheet may be candidates for more intensive salt reduction guidance.

Two-year longitudinal trajectory patterns of albuminuria and subsequent rates of end-stage kidney disease and all-cause death: a nationwide cohort study of biopsy-proven diabetic kidney disease

INTRODUCTION

Data on the association between longitudinal trajectory patterns of albuminuria and subsequent end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) and all-cause mortality in diabetic kidney disease (DKD) are sparse.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Drawing on nationally representative data of 329 patients with biopsy-proven DKD and an estimated glomerular filtration rate above 30 mL/min/1.73 m² at the time of biopsy, we used joint latent class mixed models to identify different 2-year trajectory patterns of urine albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR) and assessed subsequent rates of competing events: ESKD and all-cause death.

RESULTS

A total of three trajectory groups of UACR were identified: 'high-increasing' group (n=254; 77.2%), 'high-decreasing' group (n=24; 7.3%), and 'low-stable' group (n=51; 15.5%). The 'low-stable' group had the most favorable risk profile, including the baseline UACR (median (IQR) UACR (mg/g creatinine): 'low-stable', 109 (50-138); 'high-decreasing', 906 (468-1740); 'high-increasing', 1380 (654-2502)), and had the least subsequent risk of ESKD and all-cause death among the groups. Although there were no differences in baseline characteristics between the 'high-decreasing' group and the 'high-increasing' group, the 'high-decreasing' group had better control over blood pressure, blood glucose, and total cholesterol levels during the first 2 years of follow-up, and the incidence rates of subsequent ESKD and all-cause death were lower in the 'high-decreasing' group compared with the 'high-increasing' group (incidence rate of ESKD (per 1000 person-years): 32.7 vs 77.4, p=0.014; incidence rate of all-cause death (per 1000 person-years): 0.0 vs 25.4, p=0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

Dynamic changes in albuminuria are associated with subsequent ESKD and all-cause mortality in DKD. Reduction in albuminuria by improving risk profile may decrease the risk of ESKD and all-cause death.

The Association between Glomerular Diameter and Secondary Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis in Chronic Kidney Disease

INTRODUCTION

When nephron loss occurs, the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is suggested to be maintained by glomerular hypertrophy, but excessive hypertrophy can rather lead to the formation of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), thereby causing progressive kidney damage. However, it is not clear how much glomerular hypertrophy leads to the formation of FSGS. We examined the association between glomerular diameter and FSGS lesions in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients.

METHODS

We recruited 77 patients who underwent renal biopsy during 2016-2017; however, those identified with primary FSGS and glomerulonephritis with active glomerular lesion were excluded. We evaluated the maximal glomerular diameter (Max GD), an indicator of glomerular size, in each renal biopsy specimen and examined its association with FSGS lesion.

RESULTS

The median age, blood pressure, and estimated GFR of the patients were 53 years, 122/70 mm Hg, and 65 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively. The optimal cutoff threshold of Max GD for predicting the presence of FSGS lesions, assessed by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, was determined to be at 224 μm (area under the curve, 0.81; sensitivity, 81%; specificity, 72%). Multivariate logistic regression analyses demonstrated that Max GD ≥224 μm was significantly associated with the presence of FSGS lesions, independent of other confounding factors (odds ratio, 11.70; 95% confidence interval, 1.93-70.84).

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION

Glomerular hypertrophy (Max GD ≥224 μm) has been associated with FSGS lesions in CKD patients and may reflect the limits of the compensatory process.

Serum hemoglobin concentration, as a reflection of renal fibrosis, and risk of renal decline in early-stages of diabetic kidney disease: a nationwide, biopsy-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Prognosticating disease progression in patients with diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is challenging, especially in the early stages of kidney disease. Anemia can occur in the early stages of kidney disease in diabetes. We therefore postulated that serum hemoglobin concentration, as a reflection of incipient renal tubulointerstitial impairment, can be used as a marker to predict DKD progression.

METHODS

Drawing on nationally representative data of patients with biopsy-proven DKD, 246 patients who had an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2 at renal biopsy were identified: aged 56 (45, 63); 62.6% men; Hb 13.3 (12.0, 14.5) g/dL; eGFR 76.2 (66.6, 88.6) mL/min/1.73 m2; urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio [UACR] 534 (100, 1480) mg/g Crea. Serum hemoglobin concentration were divided into quartiles: ≤12, 12.1-13.3, 13.4-14.5, and ≥14.6 g/dL. The association between serum hemoglobin concentration and the severity of renal pathological lesions was explored. A multivariable Cox regression model was used to estimate the risk of DKD progression (new onset of end-stage kidney disease, 50% reduction of eGFR, or doubling of serum creatinine). The incremental prognostic value of DKD progression by adding serum hemoglobin concentration to the known risk factors of DKD was assessed.

RESULTS

Serum hemoglobin levels negatively correlated with all renal pathological features, especially with the severity of interstitial fibrosis (ρ =-0.52; P < 0.001). During a median follow-up of 4.1 years, 95 developed DKD progression. Adjusting for known risk factors of DKD progression, the hazard ratio in the first, second, and third quartile (the fourth quartile as a reference) were 2.74 (95% CI 1.26-5.97), 2.33 (95% CI 1.07-5.75), and 1.46 (95% CI 0.71-3.64), respectively. Addition of the serum hemoglobin concentration to the known risk factors of DKD progression improved the prognostic value of DKD progression (the global chi-statistics increased from 55.1 to 60.8; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Serum hemoglobin concentration, which reflects incipient renal fibrosis, can be useful for predicting DKD progression in the early stages of kidney disease.

Predictors of Survival in Chronic Hemodialysis Patients: A 10-Year Longitudinal Follow-Up Analysis

BACKGROUND

Risk factors of mortality in chronic hemodialysis patients have not yet been sufficiently evaluated. In particular, chronological transits and interactions of the impact of risk factors have rarely been described.

METHODS

This study is a post hoc analysis of the participants in the Olme-sartan Clinical Trial in Okinawan Patients under OKIDS (OCTOPUS) study conducted between June 2006 and June 2011. We additionally followed up on the prognosis of the participants until July 31, 2018. Standardized univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses were used to evaluate the influences of the participants' baseline characteristics on all-cause mortality. We also evaluated chronological changes in the impacts of risk factors, interactions among predictors, and the influence of missing values using sensitivity analyses.

RESULTS

Of the 469 original trial participants, 461 participants were evaluated. The median time of follow-up was 10.2 years. A total of 211 (45.8%) participants were deceased. The leading causes of death were infection (n = 72, 34.1%) and cardiovascular disease (n = 66, 31.3%). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses revealed that the impact of diabetes mellitus, history of coronary intervention, and hypoalbuminemia were significant risk factors for mortality during the whole follow-up period. During the early follow-up period (≤3 years), standardized univariate Cox regression analyses revealed that history of amputation (hazard ratio [HR] = 4.61, p < 0.001), lower dry weight, higher cardiothoracic ratio, and lower potassium levels were statistically significant risks. In those who survived for longer than 3 years, a history of stroke (HR = 1.73, p = 0.006), higher systolic blood pressure, lower serum sodium levels, and higher levels of hemoglobin, and serum phosphate were significant risks. We also observed a stable interaction between the impacts of serum phosphate and albumin on all-cause mortality.

CONCLUSION

In chronic hemodialysis patients, targets to improve the short-term prognosis and long-term prognosis are not equivalent. Hyperphosphatemia was a significant risk factor for the all-cause mortality among patients with normal serum albumin levels but not among patients with compromised albumin levels.

Changes in serum concentration of rilpivirine in an HIV-infected patient treated with a combination therapy of hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis

Background

To our knowledge, there are no preexisting reports concerning rilpivirine (RPV) removal by hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.

Case presentation

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis on plasma concentrations of RPV in a 45-year-old man infected with HIV and exhibiting end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The extraction ratio of RPV by hemodialysis was 4.5%. Plasma concentrations of RPV remained far above the protein-binding-adjusted inhibitory levels during a combination therapy of hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Our results suggest minimal RPV removal via hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis with no specific dosage adjustments required in an HIV-infected patient undergoing this combination therapy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study showed that RPV administered without dose adjustment resulted in steady-state plasma drug concentration in an HIV-infected patient treated with a combination therapy of hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.

Clinicopathological features of fast eGFR decliners among patients with diabetic nephropathy

INTRODUCTION

The speed of declining kidney function differs among patients with diabetic nephropathy. This study was undertaken to clarify clinical and pathological features that affect the speed of declining kidney function in patients with diabetic nephropathy.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This study was design as multicenter retrospective study. The subjects (377 patients with diabetic nephropathy diagnosed by kidney biopsy at 13 centers in Japan) were classified into three groups based on the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) declining speed. The eGFR increasing group, the control group, and the eGFR declining group were divided at 0 and 5 mL/min/1.73 m²/year, respectively. Characteristics of clinicopathological findings of declining kidney function were evaluated.

RESULTS

The mean observation period of this study was 6.9 years. The control group, the eGFR increasing group, and the eGFR declining group included 81, 66, and 230 patients, respectively. The incidences of composite kidney events represented by 100 persons/year were 25.8 in the eGFR declining group and 2.0 in the eGFR increasing group. After adjustment for age, sex, systolic blood pressure, hemoglobin, and urinary albumin levels, three clinicopathological findings (urinary albumin levels, presence of nodular lesion, and mesangiolysis) were risk factors for inclusion in the eGFR declining group (the ORs were 1.49, 2.18, and 2.08, respectively). In contrast, the presence of subendothelial space widening and polar vasculosis were characteristic findings for inclusion in the eGFR increasing group (the ORs were 0.53 and 0.41, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

As well as urinary albumin elevation, nodular lesion and mesangiolysis were characteristic pathological features of patients with fast declining kidney function.

Therapeutic drug monitoring in peritoneal dialysis: A case of nontuberculous mycobacterium catheter-related infection treated with amikacin

The pharmacokinetics of amikacin makes it difficult to predict the appropriate dosing to avoid harmful side effects in patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). The implementation of therapeutic drug monitoring may be useful in controlling amikacin serum concentrations in patients receiving CAPD.

Nonproteinuric Versus Proteinuric Phenotypes in Diabetic Kidney Disease: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis of a Nationwide, Biopsy-Based Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

Clinicopathological characteristics, renal prognosis, and mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes and reduced renal function without overt proteinuria are scarce.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We retrospectively assessed 526 patients with type 2 diabetes and reduced renal function (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] <60 mL/min/1.73 m²), who underwent clinical renal biopsy and had follow-up data, from Japan's nationwide multicenter renal biopsy registry. For comparative analyses, we derived one-to-two cohorts of those without proteinuria versus those with proteinuria using propensity score-matching methods addressing the imbalances of age, sex, diabetes duration, and baseline eGFR. The primary end point was progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) defined as new-onset end-stage renal disease, decrease of eGFR by ≥50%, or doubling of serum creatinine. The secondary end point was all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

Eighty-two patients with nonproteinuria (urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio [UACR] <300 mg/g) had lower systolic blood pressure and less severe pathological lesions compared with 164 propensity score-matched patients with proteinuria (UACR ≥300 mg/g). After a median follow-up of 1.9 years (interquartile range 0.9-5.0 years) from the date of renal biopsy, the 5-year CKD progression-free survival was 86.6% (95% CI 72.5-93.8) for the nonproteinuric group and 30.3% (95% CI 22.4-38.6) for the proteinuric group (log-rank test P < 0.001). The lower renal risk was consistent across all subgroup analyses. The all-cause mortality was also lower in the nonproteinuric group (log-rank test P = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with nonproteinuric diabetic kidney disease had better-controlled blood pressure and fewer typical morphological changes and were at lower risk of CKD progression and all-cause mortality.

Amplified Association Between Blood Pressure and Albuminuria in Overweight Patients With Biopsy-Proven Hypertensive Nephrosclerosis

BACKGROUND

An overweight person is at high risk for hypertensive renal damage. The effect of weight on the association between systolic blood pressure (SBP) and albuminuria remains unknown in patients with histologically diagnosed hypertensive nephrosclerosis.

METHODS

A total of 97 patients with biopsy-confirmed hypertensive nephrosclerosis were recruited from 13 centers throughout Japan. We examined the relationship between SBP and proteinuria among those who were overweight, which is defined as a body mass index ≥25 kg/m2, and those who were not. We examined the interaction of weight and SBP with albuminuria at baseline and with the changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) during the observational period.

RESULTS

Our results included mean age (54 years old), blood pressure (138/80), eGFR (53 ml/min/1.73 m2), and urine albumin levels (0.2 g/day). SBP was significantly correlated with log-transformed urine albumin levels (r = 0.4, P = 0.01) in patients who were overweight (n = 38) compared with patients who were not overweight (n = 59). Multiple regression analysis revealed that the interaction between being overweight and SBP with respect to albuminuria was significantly correlated with the log-transformed urine albumin level (β = 0.39, P = 0.047) and was independent of age, sex, and potential confounding factors. The interaction between weight and SBP ≥140 mm Hg was significantly associated with a greater decrease in eGFR in the following 3 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Being overweight may enhance susceptibility to hypertensive glomerular damage and may eventually lead to renal progression in patients with hypertensive nephrosclerosis.

Nationwide multicentre kidney biopsy study of Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes

Background

The clinical and pathologic manifestations of nephropathy due to type 2 diabetes are diverse, but large-scale pathologic studies with long-term observations are limited.

Methods

Kidney biopsies and clinical data of 600 patients with type 2 diabetes were collected retrospectively from 13 centres across Japan. Thirteen pathologic findings (nine glomerular lesions, two interstitial lesions and two vascular lesions) were clearly defined and scored.

Results

During the observation period, there were 304 composite kidney events [dialysis, doubling of creatinine or reduction of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) by half], 31 instances of chronic kidney disease (CKD) G5D, 76 cardiovascular events and 73 deaths. The mean observation period was 72.4 months. The distribution of CKD heat map categories for the 600 patients was 103 green or yellow, 149 orange and 348 red. Even in the cases in the green and yellow category, diffuse lesions (81.6%), polar vasculosis (42.6%) and subendothelial space widening (35.1%) were commonly detected. Cox proportional hazard analysis revealed that the presence of nodular lesions [hazard ratio (HR) 21.1, 95% confidence interval (CI) 5.3-84.6], exudative lesions (HR 5.1, 95% CI 1.3-20.3) and mesangiolysis (HR 7.6, 95% CI 2.0-28.8) in cases in the green and yellow category were associated with significantly great impact on composite kidney events after adjustment for clinical risk factors.

Conclusions

This nationwide study on kidney biopsy of 600 cases with type 2 diabetes revealed that pathologic findings (presence of nodular lesions, exudative lesions and mesangiolysis) were strong predictors of kidney events in low-risk patients.

Hyponatremia and mortality among very elderly residents in a geriatric health service facility

INTRODUCTION

Hyponatremia is common among elderly patients. This study aimed to examine the prognostic value of hyponatremia among elderly residents in a geriatric facility.

METHODS

We retrospectively examined the association between serum sodium levels and mortality among 118 residents (82% female, mean age 85.5 years) in a single geriatric health service facility. We defined hyponatremia as Na < 135 mEq/L. On the basis of single measurements of serum sodium at periodic examinations, the patients were divided into hyponatremia and non-hyponatremia groups. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the effect of hyponatremia on mortality from May 2005 to April 2007.

RESULTS

Thirty-three patients (28%) had hyponatremia. Over a 1-year follow-up period, the cumulative survival rate was significantly lower in patients with hyponatremia than in those without hyponatremia. In a multivariate analysis, including traditional risk factors for death, hyponatremia was associated with an increased mortality risk (adjusted hazard ratio 2.73; 95% confidence interval 1.01-5.16; p = 0.047).

CONCLUSIONS

Hyponatremia is common and is a predictor of mortality in the near future among very elderly residents of a geriatric facility.

Add-On Effect of Angiotensin Receptor Blockade (Candesartan) on Clinical Remission in Active IgA Nephropathy Patients Treated with Steroid Pulse Therapy and Tonsillectomy: a Randomized, Parallel-Group Comparison Trial

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) may be beneficial for clinical remission during conventional therapy with tonsillectomy and steroid pulse (TSP) for active IgA nephropathy.

METHODS

Seventy-seven patients with active IgA nephropathy were randomly assigned to the control arm with conventional regimen (TSP followed by oral prednisolone) (n = 37) or the ARB arm with conventional regimen plus ARB candesartan for the first 6 months (n = 40). Patients not achieving proteinuria remission at 12 months in either arm were administered candesartan, which was titrated until the 24-month follow-up. The primary endpoints were remission of proteinuria (< 0.3 g/gCr) and hematuria at 12 months.

RESULTS

Baseline proteinuria (g/g Cr) were comparable between the control and ARB arm (1.02 vs. 0.97, P = 0.97). Similarly, cumulative remission rates at 6, 12, and 24 months were comparable between the control and ARB arms (37.8% vs. 35% [P = 0.80], 48.7% vs. 38.5% [P = 0.37], 71.4% vs. 51.3% [P = 0.08]). Proteinuria, which was slightly worse in the control arm than in the ARB arm at 6 months, was comparable afterwards (0.20 vs. 0.23 g/g Cr at 12 months; 0.12 vs. 0.13 g/g Cr at 24 months). Significant reductions observed in urinary angiotensinogen were almost comparable between the two treatment arms at both 6 and 12 months.

CONCLUSION

Early candesartan treatment combined with TSP may not benefit clinical remission regardless of the blood pressure. ARB titration later during the treatment might provide benefit for patients with active IgA nephropathy.

Augmented Association Between Blood Pressure and Proteinuria in Hyperuricemic Patients With Nonnephrotic Chronic Kidney Disease

BACKGROUND

Hyperuricemia (HU) may enhance susceptibility to hypertensive renal damage via disrupted autoregulation of glomerular hemodynamics. The effect of HU on the association between blood pressure (BP) and proteinuria remains unknown in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

METHODS

In total, 109 patients with nonnephrotic CKD (55 men and 54 females) who underwent renal biopsy were recruited. Arteriolar hyalinosis was semiquantitatively assessed via arteriole grading. Correlation between BP and urine protein (UP) level was examined based on the presence of HU, which was defined as the use of urate-lowering drugs or serum uric acid levels of ≥7 and ≥5 mg/dl in males and females, respectively, which were associated with increased risks of hyalinosis in our previous study.

RESULTS

Median age, BP, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and UP level were 38 years, 124/74 mm Hg, 82 ml/min/1.73 m2, and 0.8 g/gCr, respectively. In patients with HU (n = 59), log-transformed systolic BP (SBP) was significantly correlated with log-transformed UP level (r = 0.49, P < 0.0001); this was not observed in patients without HU (n = 50). Multiple regression analysis (R2 = 0.21, P = 0.0001) revealed that the interaction between HU and log-transformed SBP with respect to proteinuria was significantly correlated with log-transformed UP level (β = 7.0, P = 0.03), independent of age, sex, and potential confounding factors; however, this statistical significance was completely eliminated after adjustment for the arteriolar hyalinosis index.

CONCLUSIONS

HU potentiates susceptibility to hypertensive glomerular damage via disrupted autoregulation in patients with nonnephrotic CKD.

Nationwide multicenter kidney biopsy study of Japanese patients with hypertensive nephrosclerosis

BACKGROUND

Nephrosclerosis is an increasingly reason for dialysis in Japan. However, kidney biopsy specimens for hypertensive nephrosclerosis are very limited; thus, the pathologic evaluation of hypertensive nephrosclerosis currently remains unclear.

METHODS

Clinical and pathologic data of a total of 184 biopsy-confirmed hypertensive nephrosclerosis patients were collected from 13 centers throughout Japan. Seven pathological findings were assessed in this study. The outcomes of interest for this study were dialysis, composite kidney events, cardiovascular events, and all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

The Green and Yellow (G&Y), Orange, and Red groups of the chronic kidney diseases (CKD) heat map contained 36, 57, and 91 cases, respectively. The mean observation period was 7.3 ± 5.2 (median, IQR; 6.1, 2.6-9.7) years. Global glomerulosclerosis (GScle), interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (IFTA), arteriolar hyalinosis in Red exhibited higher scores than those in G&Y and Orange. The incidence rates of the composite kidney end points in 100 person-years for the G&Y, Orange, and Red groups were 1.42, 2.16, and 3.98, respectively. In the univariate Cox analysis for the composite kidney end points, GScle, IFTA and interstitial cell infiltration exhibited statistically significant high hazard ratios (1.18, 1.84, 1.69, respectively). However, after adjustment for clinical and medication data, the Red group in the CKD heat map category was risk factor for the composite kidney end points (HR 9.51).

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, although pathologic findings had minor impacts on the prediction of composite outcomes in this study, the clinical stage of the CKD heat map is a good predictor of composite kidney events.

Clinicopathological analysis of biopsy-proven diabetic nephropathy based on the Japanese classification of diabetic nephropathy

BACKGROUND

The Japanese classification of diabetic nephropathy reflects the risks of mortality, cardiovascular events and kidney prognosis and is clinically useful. Furthermore, pathological findings of diabetic nephropathy are useful for predicting prognoses. In this study, we evaluated the characteristics of pathological findings in relation to the Japanese classification of diabetic nephropathy and their ability to predict prognosis.

METHODS

The clinical data of 600 biopsy-confirmed diabetic nephropathy patients were collected retrospectively from 13 centers across Japan. Composite kidney events, kidney death, cardiovascular events, all-cause mortality, and decreasing rate of estimated GFR (eGFR) were evaluated based on the Japanese classification of diabetic nephropathy.

RESULTS

The median observation period was 70.4 (IQR 20.9-101.0) months. Each stage had specific characteristic pathological findings. Diffuse lesions, interstitial fibrosis and/or tubular atrophy (IFTA), interstitial cell infiltration, arteriolar hyalinosis, and intimal thickening were detected in more than half the cases, even in Stage 1. An analysis of the impacts on outcomes in all data showed that hazard ratios of diffuse lesions, widening of the subendothelial space, exudative lesions, mesangiolysis, IFTA, and interstitial cell infiltration were 2.7, 2.8, 2.7, 2.6, 3.5, and 3.7, respectively. Median declining speed of eGFR in all cases was 5.61 mL/min/1.73 m²/year, and the median rate of declining kidney function within 2 years after kidney biopsy was 24.0%.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicated that pathological findings could categorize the high-risk group as well as the Japanese classification of diabetic nephropathy. Further study using biopsy specimens is required to clarify the pathogenesis of diabetic kidney disease.

Chronic kidney disease, inflammation, and cardiovascular disease risk in rheumatoid arthritis

BACKGROUND

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a prototypic systemic autoimmune inflammatory condition, confers an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Recently, chronic kidney disease (CKD) was suggested to increase the risk of CVD in RA patients, and inflammation was identified as a critical, nontraditional CKD-associated risk factor for CVD. This study aimed to examine the combined effects of CKD and CVD in RA patients.

METHODS

In this retrospective evaluation of 428 RA patients, the outcome of interest was the incidence of CVD. CKD was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate of <60mL/min/1.73m² and/or positive dipstick tests for proteinuria of ≥3 months duration. C-reactive protein (CRP) was used as an inflammation marker, and a high CRP level was defined as a mean CRP value of ≥0.57mg/dL during the first 6 months of follow-up. Patients were categorized as follows: non-CKD with low CRP, non-CKD with high CRP, CKD with low CRP, and CKD with high CRP.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 89 months, 67 patients (16%) had CKD, and 38 (9%) developed CVD. Using patients with non-CKD and low CRP as a reference group, the adjusted hazard ratios (HR, 95% confidence interval) for CVD were 1.88 (0.25-9.44) for patients with CKD/low CRP and 9.71 (3.27-31.97) for those with CKD/high CRP.

CONCLUSIONS

The coexistence of CKD and inflammation was associated with a higher risk of CVD than either condition alone in RA patients. Inflammation might increase the risk of CVD especially in patients with CKD.

Inflammation as a Risk of Developing Chronic Kidney Disease in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Objective

The relationship between chronic inflammation and the incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) remained not-clear in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This study aims to examine the relationship between persistently high C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation, and the incidence of CKD in RA.

Methods

We retrospectively examined the relationship between the levels of CRP and incidence of CKD in 345 RA patients. The outcome of interest was incidence of CKD, defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m² and/or positive dipstick testing for proteinuria for ≥3 months. We defined high CRP, as >3.0 mg/L. On the basis of three measurements of CRP for 6-months period, patients were divided into three groups: group 1, including patients with no high CRP values; group 2, patients with transient high CRP values (once or twice) and group 3, patients with persistently high CRP values.

Results

During a median follow-up period of 89 months, 14% of all patients developed CKD. The cumulative incidence of CKD was 7% in group 1, 14% in group 2 and 22% in group 3 (P = 0.008, log-rank test). In a multivariate analysis, including classical risk factors for CKD, persistently high CRP was an independent predictor of the incidence of CKD (hazard ratio, 3.00; 95% confidence interval, 1.23–8.53; P = 0.01).

Conclusions

Persistently high CRP was a significant risk factor for the incidence of CKD. Results suggest that persistent inflammation is a marker for the high risk of CKD in RA.

Interrelationship between brachial artery function and renal small artery sclerosis in chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD), characterized by senile inflammation, is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Conduit artery function and small artery structure relate to cardiovascular disease. We examined the correlations, determinants and interrelationships of arterial indices in association with CKD in a cross-sectional study of 139 patients (60% male; mean age 44 years) with CKD (stages 3-5, 39%) who underwent a renal biopsy. Conduit artery function and small artery sclerosis were assessed by brachial artery flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) and semiquantitative evaluation of small artery intimal thickening (SA-IT), respectively. The estimated glomerular filtration rate correlated with FMD (r=0.31, P=0.0002) and inversely correlated with SA-IT (r=-0.54, P<0.0001). Multiple regression analysis showed that FMD was inversely correlated with SA-IT and vice versa. In addition, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) was significantly correlated with SA-IT, but not FMD. Multiple logistic analysis revealed that higher hs-CRP concomitant with decreased FMD was further associated with the risk of severe SA-IT compared with their individual effects. These findings suggest that both conduit artery and small artery disease develop with mutual interaction in parallel with decreased kidney function. Coexistence of inflammation and conduit artery dysfunction may be closely related to renal small artery sclerosis in patients with CKD.

An association between uric acid levels and renal arteriolopathy in chronic kidney disease: a biopsy-based study

Uric acid (UA) can induce renal arteriolopathy in animal models. Whether there is an association between UA and renal arteriolopathy in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is unknown. Here, we examined the cross-sectional association of serum UA levels with renal arteriolar hyalinosis and wall thickening. Arteriolar parameters were assessed by semiquantitative grading (max: grade 3) of arterioles in 167 patients with CKD (mean age, 42.4 years; 86 men and 81 women) who underwent renal biopsy. The mean serum UA level was 6.4 mg dl(-1). We observed hyalinosis in 94 patients (56%) and wall thickening in 119 patients (71%). As the UA level tertile increased, the proportion of higher-grade (grade 2 and 3) hyalinosis and wall thickening increased (hyalinosis, P<0.0001 and wall thickening, P=0.0002, for trend). Multiple logistic analysis adjusted for age ≥40 years, sex, hypertension status, diabetes mellitus status and estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 ml min(-1) per 1.73 m(2) showed that hyperuricemia (UA ≥7 mg dl(-1)) was significantly associated with a higher risk of hyalinosis (adjusted odds ratio: 3.13; 95% confidence interval: 1.23-7.94; P=0.02) and higher-grade (equal to or higher than the mean value) wall thickening (adjusted odds ratio: 2.66; 95% confidence interval: 1.11-6.38; P=0.03). Hence, these results suggest that hyperuricemia may be related to renal arteriolar damage in patients with CKD.

Switching therapy from variable-dose multiple pill to fixed-dose single-pill combinations of angiotensin II receptor blockers and thiazides for hypertension

The efficacy and tolerability of switching therapy from free combinations of angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) and thiazide (A/T) to a fixed-dose of losartan and hydrochlorothiazide (L/H) has not been evaluated in Japan. We examined effects of switching therapy from variable-dose multiple-pill A/T to a fixed-dose L/H on blood pressure (BP) along with medication adherence and the degree of satisfaction in 91 hypertensive outpatients (mean age, 65.2 ± 9.6 years). After 6 months, a significant BP reduction (132 ± 9/76 ± 10 vs. 126 ± 12/72 ± 11 mm Hg), along with an improvement of attaining target BP (44.0 vs. 61.5%) and that of adherence, were observed. The magnitude of BP reduction in the participants increased their degree of satisfaction more significantly than in the participants who worsened their degree of satisfaction. The estimated glomerular filtration rate and the serum uric acid (UA) level decreased slightly but significantly. The hemoglobin A1c of participants with diabetes mellitus increased slightly but significantly. In conclusion, a switch in therapy from variable-dose, multiple-pill A/T combinations to a fixed-dose, single-pill L/H was effective in decreasing BP and serum UA in Japanese clinical practice. Metabolic side effects of L/H in patients with diabetes mellitus remain to be investigated.

Tonsillectomy and steroid pulse (TSP) therapy for patients with IgA nephropathy: a nationwide survey of TSP therapy in Japan and an analysis of the predictive factors for resistance to TSP therapy

BACKGROUND

Tonsillectomy and steroid pulse (TSP) therapy was proposed as a curative treatment for IgA nephropathy by Hotta et al. (Am J Kidney Dis 38:736-742, 2001) based on data that about 50% of patients achieved clinical remission (CR) of urinary abnormalities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

As a primary survey, we sent a questionnaire and letter to 848 hospitals in Japan, each of which employed a Fellow of the Japanese Society of Nephrology between October and December of 2006, in order to gather information about the prevalence and efficacy of TSP therapy for patients with IgA nephropathy. As a secondary survey, we collected data from both low- and high-CR-rate groups to determine which factors predicted resistance to TSP therapy.

RESULTS

A total of 2,746 patients received TSP therapy between 2000 and 2006. The CR rates, calculated by measuring urinary criteria 6 and 12 months after TSP therapy, were 32.0% (347/1,085) and 45.6% (452/991), respectively. Analysis of the 30 hospitals in which TSP therapy had been performed on at least ten patients revealed that the CR rates varied from below 10% to 100%. A secondary survey of ten hospitals revealed that, after correction of the CR rate from each hospital, patients could be categorized into three groups: those with a low CR rate (122 patients in four hospitals), a middle CR rate (78 patients in four hospitals), and a high CR rate (103 patients in two hospitals). The CR rate of all patients (N = 303) was 54.1%. A comparison of patient data between the low- and high-CR-rate groups showed a significant difference in age at onset (years; P = 0.05), amount of proteinuria (g/day; P = 0.02), total protein (g/dl; P = 0.02), pathological grade (P = 0.009), and prognostic score as described by Wakai et al. [Nephrol Dial Transplant 21:2800-2808, 2006, (P = 0.04)]. Univariate analysis revealed that there was a significant difference between non-CR and CR subgroups in duration from diagnosis until TSP therapy (6.9 +/- 6.8 versus 5.3 +/- 5.2 years; P = 0.02), amount of proteinuria (1.5 +/- 1.6 versus 0.8 +/- 0.8 g/day; P < 0.0001), serum creatinine (0.99 +/- 0.40 versus 0.87 +/- 0.34 mg/dl; P = 0.006), pathological grade (P = 0.0006), and Wakai et al.'s prognostic score (37.4 +/- 17.8 versus 28.1 +/- 15.1; P < 0.0001). A multivariate logistic analysis demonstrated that resistance to TSP therapy depends on age at onset, amount of proteinuria, hematuria grade, and pathological grade, and a score predicting resistance to TSP therapy could be derived by the formula: [(-0.0330) x (age) + (0.4772) x log (amount of proteinuria) - (0.0273) x (hematuria grade: 0, 1, 2, and 3) + (0.7604) x (pathological grade: 1, 2, 3, and 4) - 0.1894]. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve showed that patients with a resistance score of greater than -0.02 easily resist TSP therapy (sensitivity 69%, specificity 75%, positive likelihood ratio 2.76).

CONCLUSION

TSP therapy shows promise as a treatment that can bring about CR of urinary abnormalities, but unfortunately the average CR rate is about 50% at 1 year after treatment. Predictive factors for resistance to TSP therapy are age at onset, amount of proteinuria, hematuria grade, and pathological grade. The present study suggests that patients with either early-stage or mild to moderate IgA nephropathy easily achieve CR following TSP therapy, whereas patients with late-stage or severe disease are prone to TSP therapy resistance.

Penicillin G-induced hemorrhagic cystitis with hydronephrosis

Irritable urological symptoms with gross hematuria and bilateral lumbar pain developed when the patient received penicillin G for endocarditis. These symptoms were followed by renal insufficiency. A contrast-enhanced abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan revealed a thickened bladder wall, bilateral hydroureter and hydronephrosis, suggesting hemorrhagic cystitis complicated with urinary tract obstruction. Urine culture was negative. After discontinuation of penicillin G, all symptoms subsided and renal function recovered; hence, penicillin G seems to have been associated with hemorrhagic cystitis and acute kidney injury. Positive findings in the drug lymphocyte stimulation test (DLST) for penicillin G were consistent with this diagnosis.

Olmesartan clinical trial in Okinawan patients under OKIDS (OCTOPUS) study: design and methods

BACKGROUND

Guidelines for treatment of hypertension are not available for chronic hemodialysis (HD) population, despite the high mortality rate due to cardiovascular disease (CVD). Survival is much better among hypertensive patients than normal to hypotensive patients. Target levels of blood pressure and the class of antihypertensive drugs have not been examined in prospective studies.

METHODS

We designed a prospective randomized controlled study among hypertensive HD patients in Okinawa (Okinawa Dialysis Study, OKIDS). The outcomes will be compared between two treatment regimens, such as (1) renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitor Olmesartan and others, and (2) antihypertensive drugs without RAS inhibitors, in a parallel fashion. The title of the study is Olmesartan Clinical Trial in Okinawan Patients under OKIDS (OCTOPUS). Outcomes are any cause of death and CVD in 3 years in a total of 462 patients. Subjects are age 20-79 years and ambulatory on thrice weekly HD treatment. Eligible patients have resistant hypertension: pre-HD session blood pressure 140/90 mmHg and over for more than 1 month regardless with the use of antihypertensive drugs. Patients treated with RAS drugs are eligible if they continue to be hypertensive for more than 1 month after switching to non-RAS antihypertensive drugs.

CONCLUSION

This study provides evidence for the target levels of blood pressure at a pre-HD session and the impact of RAS inhibitors. We also evaluate the usefulness of home blood pressure monitoring in HD patients.

Anemia as a risk factor for chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an important and leading cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and moreover, plays a role in the morbidity and mortality due to cardiovascular disease, infection, and cancer. Anemia develops during the early stages of CKD and is common in patients with ESRD. Anemia is an important cause of left ventricular hypertrophy and congestive heart failure. Correction of anemia by erthyropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) has been shown to improve survival in patients with congestive heart failure. Anemia is counted as one of the non-conventional risk factors associated with CKD. Hypoxia is one of the common mechanisms of CKD progression. Treatment by ESA is expected to improve quality of life, survival, and prevent the CKD progression. Several clinical studies have shown the beneficial effects of anemia correction on renal outcomes. However, recent prospective trials both in ESRD and in CKD stages 3 and 4 failed to confirm the beneficial effects of correcting anemia on survival. Similarly, treatment of other risk factors such as hyperlipidemia by statin showed no improvement in the survival of dialysis patients. Given the high prevalence of anemia in ESRD and untoward effects of anemia in CKD stages 3 and 4, appropriate and timely intervention on renal anemia using ESA is required for practicing nephrologists and others involved in the care of high-risk population. Lessons from the recent studies are to correct renal anemia (hemoglobin <10 g/dl not hemoglobin > or =13 g/dl). Early intervention for renal anemia is a part of the treatment option in the prevention clinic. In this study, clinical significance of anemia management in patients with CKD is discussed.

Plasma aldosterone in hypertensive patients on chronic hemodialysis: distribution, determinants and impact on survival

A high plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) is known to be associated with poor outcome in patients with cardiac disease. However, the prognostic value of PAC in chronic hemodialysis (HD) patients is unknown. In 1996 we examined 128 hypertensive patients treated with antihypertensive drugs, excluding angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, who were undergoing chronic HD (ages 61.8+/-13.8 years, 62% male), and for whom PAC (ng/dl) data were obtained. We followed up these patients until November 2003. During the follow-up period, 30 patients died. About half of all patients (48%) had PAC values above the normal range. We assigned the 128 patients to a lower (<22.9) or higher (> or = 22.9) PAC group according to the median baseline PAC. The survival rate as calculated by the Kaplan-Meier method was 90.6% in the higher PAC group and 62.5% in the lower PAC group (p=0.003). In multivariate analysis, serum potassium and plasma renin activity were independent determinants of PAC. Cox proportional hazards analysis, with adjustment for other variables including diabetes, showed that lower PAC was independently predictive of death. The adjusted hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) of the lower PAC group was 2.905 (1.187-7.112, p=0.020). The significance of PAC became marginal by adjustment with albumin or potassium. These results indicate that higher PAC is common, but not associated with an increase in total and cardiovascular deaths among hypertensive patients undergoing chronic HD. The association between lower PAC and poor survival may be driven by volume retention and/or lower potassium.

Successful management of critical limb ischemia with intravenous sodium thiosulfate in a chronic hemodialysis patient

Vascular calcification is common among hemodialysis (HD) patients and contributes to the development of peripheral arterial disease. A 57-year-old Japanese man who had been on HD for 30 years was referred to us for severe pain with multiple ulcers on his toes and fingers. He was an ex-smoker and had no diabetes mellitus. On admission, he had ulcers on his big toes bilaterally and right 2nd - 4th fingers. Peripheral pulses were strong and his ankle-brachial pressure index was above 1.3. Laboratory data were as follows: calcium 9.9 mg/dl, albumin 3.3 g/dl, phosphate 3.0 mg/dl, Ca x P product 30, and parathyroid hormone 98 pg/ml. He had a parathyroidectomy in 1998 and 1999. X-rays of his hands and legs showed diffuse subcutaneous arteriolar calcification. Angiography revealed no local stenotic lesions. Despite intensive therapies including hyperbaric oxygen therapy, painful gangrene developed on his right big toe and the pain was so intense that he could not go to sleep in a supine position. We infused intravenous sodium thiosulfate (20 g) 3 times weekly, based on previous reports. Within 4 - 5 days, he experienced rapid and dramatic symptom relief. The score of the visual analogue pain scale improved from 10/10 - 2/10. The signs of ischemia, measured by transcutaneous partial oxygen pressure and thermography, improved significantly. During the infusion of sodium thiosulfate, the patient complained of nausea, vomiting and hyperosmia. These adverse symptoms were resolved after discontinuation of the infusion. Pain relief was sustained and he could walk after 2 weeks of infusion. Our case supports the use of sodium thiosulfate as a novel therapeutic choice for critical limb ischemia with severe vascular calcification in chronic HD patients.

Changes in the Demographics and Prevalence of Chronic Kidney Disease in Okinawa, Japan (1993 to 2003)

To compare the risk factor demographics and the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD), we analyzed two databases from the 1993 (N=143,948) and 2003 (N=154,019) mass screenings in Okinawa, Japan (Okinawa General Health Maintenance Association registry). We estimated the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) using serum creatinine (SCr) levels. SCr was measured by the modified Jaffe method in 1993 and by enzyme assay in 2003; the relation between the two methods was: SCr (Jaffe) = 0.194 + 1.079 x SCr (enzyme). CKD prevalence was compared using the estimated GFR calculated by the abbreviated Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) equation. SCr was measured in 66.2% (1993) and 69.8% (2003) of the total screenees. Proteinuria was present in 3.4% (1993) and 4.3% (2003) of the total screened population, respectively. The prevalence of CKD (GFR<60 ml/min/1.73 m(2)) was similar between the two databases, being 15.7% in 1993 and 15.1% in 2003. However, the demographics of the CKD risk factors changed during the study period. The mean level of systolic blood pressure decreased, whereas the prevalence of obesity and the mean levels of serum cholesterol and fasting plasma glucose increased. In 2003, the estimated prevalence of metabolic syndrome in the general population of Japan calculated using the modified National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) criteria was 19.1%. The prevalence of CKD was significantly associated with that of metabolic syndrome: the age- and sex-adjusted odds ratio was 1.332 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.277-1.389; p<0.0001). In conclusion, the demographics of the participants of the general screenings in Okinawa, Japan differed between the 1993 and 2003 screenings, but the prevalence of CKD seemed to be similar, or at least did not increase substantially, between the two databases.

Two unusual cases of Anderson-Fabry disease in a Japanese family

A 16-year-old Japanese girl was admitted to our hospital on February 27, 2001, for acute renal failure. She had not shown proteinuria or hematuria in any school examination through 2000. The first renal biopsy specimen showed focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial change. Electron microscopy showed numerous myeloid bodies in the glomerular epithelium suggesting the diagnosis of Anderson-Fabry disease. After electron microscopy, we measured WBC alpha-galactosidase A, which was slightly decreased to 36.1 nmol/mg P/h (normal: 49.8 - 116.4). WBC alpha-galactosidase A levels for other family members were 74.3 for the mother, 4.8 for the father, 45.6 for the elder sister, and 16.3 for the younger sister. During the follow-up, she had two episodes of nephrotic syndrome, which responded well to steroid therapy. Both second and third renal biopsy showed numerous myeloid bodies by electron microscopy. A 52-year-old man, the father of the case one patient, was admitted for renal biopsy because of proteinuria and low levels of WBC alpha-galactosidase. Biopsy specimen showed typical changes under light microscopy and typical myeloid bodies by electron microscopy. Our cases underscore the importance of electron microscopy when examining the biopsy specimen and suggest that undiagnosed Anderson-Fabry disease may be present, in particular on chronic dialysis.

Endothelium-Derived Nitric Oxide Modulates Vascular Action of Aldosterone in Renal Arteriole

We have recently demonstrated that aldosterone causes nongenomic vasoconstriction by activating phospholipase C (PLC) in the preglomerular afferent arteriole (Af-Art). In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that endothelium modulates this vasoconstrictor action by releasing nitric oxide (NO). In addition, to study the post-PLC mechanism, we examined possible contributions of phosphoinositol hydrolysis products. Rabbit Af-Arts were microperfused at 60 mm Hg in vitro, and increasing doses of aldosterone (10 −10 to 10 −8 mol/L) were added to the bath and lumen. Aldosterone caused dose-dependent vasoconstriction (within 10 minutes); significant ( P <0.01) constriction was observed from 5×10 −9 mol/L, and at 10 −8 mol/L, intraluminal diameter decreased by 29%±3% (n=9). Disrupting the endothelium augmented vasoconstriction; significant constriction was observed from 10 −10 mol/L, and at 10 −8 mol/L, the diameter decreased by 38%±2% (n=6). NO synthesis inhibition reproduced this augmentation (n=7). Pretreatment with chelerythrine (10 −6 mol/L), a protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor, slightly attenuated the constriction; aldosterone at 10 −8 mol/L now decreased the diameter by 18%±3% (n=7). However, in Af-Arts treated with thapsigargin (10 −6 mol/L) or dantrolene (3×10 −5 mol/L), which blocks inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP 3 )-induced intracellular calcium release, aldosterone at 10 −8 mol/L decreased the diameter by only 9%±1% (n=6) or 9%±2% (n=5), respectively. These results demonstrate that in the Af-Art endothelium-derived NO modulates vasoconstrictor actions of aldosterone that are mediated by the activation of both IP 3 and PKC pathways. Such vasoconstrictor actions of aldosterone may contribute to the development or aggravation of hypertension by elevating renal vascular resistance in cardiovascular diseases associated with endothelium dysfunction.