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Barriers to accessing home dialysis became a matter of life and death for many patients with kidney failure during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is the more commonly used home therapy option. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of PD catheter insertion procedures as performed around the world today, barriers impacting timely access to the procedure, the impact of COVID-19 and a roadmap of potential policy solutions. To substantiate the analysis, the article includes a survey of institutions across the world, with questions designed to get a sense of the regulatory frameworks, barriers to conducting the procedure and impacts of the pandemic on capability and outcomes. Based on our research, we found that improving patient selection processes, determining and implementing correct insertion techniques, creating multidisciplinary teams, providing appropriate training and sharing decision making among stakeholders will improve access to PD catheter insertion and facilitate greater uptake of home dialysis. Additionally, on a policy level, we recommend efforts to improve the awareness and feasibility of PD among patients and the healthcare workforce, enhance and promulgate training for clinicians—both surgical and medical—to insert PD catheters and fund personnel, pathways and physical facilities for PD catheter insertion.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has been declared a pandemic. Peritoneal dialysis (PD), being a home therapy, allows for physical distancing measures and movement restrictions. In order to prevent COVID‐19 contagioun among the Dominican Republic National Health System PD program patients, a follow‐up virtual protocol for this group was developed. The aim of this study is to outline the protocol established by the PD program's healthcare team using telemedicine in order to avoid COVID‐19 transmission and to report initial results and outcomes of this initiative. This is an observational prospective longitudinal study with 946 patients being treated in seven centers distributed throughout the country between April 1 and June 30. The protocol was implemented focusing on the patient follow‐up; risk mitigation data were registered and collected from electronic records. During the follow‐up period, 95 catheters were implanted, 64 patients initiated PD, and the remaining were in training. A total of 9532 consultations were given by the different team specialists, with 8720 (91%) virtual and 812 (9%) face‐to‐face consultations. The transfer rate to hemodialysis was 0.29%, whereas the peritonitis rate was 0.11 episode per patient/year. Eighteen adults tested positive for COVID‐19. The implementation of the protocol and telemedicine utilization have ensured follow‐up and monitoring, preserved therapy, controlled complications, and PD lives protected.

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a viable but under-prescribed treatment for uremic patients. Concerns about its use include the bio-incompatibility of PD fluids, due to their potential for altering the functional and anatomical integrity of the peritoneal membrane. Many of these effects are thought to be due to the high glucose content of these solutions, with attendant issues of products generated during heat treatment of glucose-containing solutions. Moreover, excessive intraperitoneal absorption of glucose from the dialysate has many potential systemic metabolic effects. This article reviews the efforts to develop alternative PD solutions that obviate some of these side effects, through the replacement of part of their glucose content with other osmolytes which are at least as efficient in removing fluids as glucose, but less impactful on patient metabolism. In particular, we will summarize clinical studies on the use of alternative osmotic ingredients that are commercially available (icodextrin and amino acids) and preclinical studies on alternative solutions under development (taurine, polyglycerol, carnitine and xylitol). In addition to the expected benefit of a glucose-sparing approach, we describe an ‘osmo-metabolic’ approach in formulating novel PD solutions, in which there is the possibility of exploiting the pharmaco-metabolic properties of some of the osmolytes to attenuate the systemic side effects due to glucose. This approach has the potential to ameliorate pre-existing co-morbidities, including insulin resistance and type-2 diabetes, which have a high prevalence in the dialysis population, including in PD patients.

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is an important, if underprescribed, modality for the treatment of patients with end-stage kidney disease. Among the barriers to its wider use are the deleterious effects of currently commercially available glucose-based PD solutions on the morphological integrity and function of the peritoneal membrane due to fibrosis. This is primarily driven by hyperglycaemia due to its effects, through multiple cytokine and transcription factor signalling—and their metabolic sequelae—on the synthesis of collagen and other extracellular membrane components. In this review, we outline these interactions and explore how novel PD solution formulations are aimed at utilizing this knowledge to minimise the complications associated with fibrosis, while maintaining adequate rates of ultrafiltration across the peritoneal membrane and preservation of patient urinary volumes. We discuss the development of a new generation of reduced-glucose PD solutions that employ a variety of osmotically active constituents and highlight the biochemical rationale underlying optimization of oxidative metabolism within the peritoneal membrane. They are aimed at achieving optimal clinical outcomes and improving the whole-body metabolic profile of patients, particularly those who are glucose-intolerant, insulin-resistant, or diabetic, and for whom daily exposure to high doses of glucose is contraindicated.

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a feasible and effective renal replacement therapy (RRT) thanks to the dialytic properties of the peritoneal membrane (PM). Preservation of PM integrity and transport function is the key to the success of PD therapy, particularly in the long term, since the prolonged exposure to unphysiological hypertonic glucose-based PD solutions in current use is detrimental to the PM, with progressive loss of peritoneal ultrafiltration capacity causing technique failure. Moreover, absorbing too much glucose intraperitoneally from the dialysate may give rise to a number of systemic metabolic effects. Here we report the preliminary results of the first clinical experience based on the use in continuous ambulatory PD (CAPD) patients of novel PD solutions obtained through partly replacing the glucose load with other osmotically active metabolites, such as L-carnitine and xylitol. Ten CAPD patients were treated for four weeks with the new solutions. There was good tolerance to the experimental PD solutions, and no adverse safety signals were observed. Parameters of dialysis efficiency including creatinine clearance and urea Kt/V proved to be stable as well as fluid status, diuresis, and total peritoneal ultrafiltration. The promising tolerance and local/systemic advantages of using L-carnitine and xylitol in the PD solution merit further research.

The first dialysis treatment in Sweden of a patient with acute kidney failure was performed already in 1946 by the pioneer Nils Alwall in Lund. Since then, there has been a tremendous development in the practice of nephrology in Sweden. The first kidney transplant was performed in 1964, and during the following decades, dialysis and nephrology departments emerged in all regions of the country. Today, Sweden has 10 million inhabitants and about 10,000 patients on renal replacement therapy, corresponding to a prevalence of 1000 pmp, out of which about 60% have a functioning transplant. A vast majority is treated in public hospitals. Sweden has about 300 nephrologists, making up less than 1% of the physicians in the country. About 1100 patients start renal replacement therapy yearly corresponding to an incidence rate of 120 pmp, diabetes being the most common primary cause of uremia, although end-stage renal disease caused by type 1 diabetes is decreasing. The yearly incident rate has levelled off and now seems to decrease which may be attributed to an improved care of patients with chronic kidney disease.

Nephrology was organized as a medical discipline in the early years of the twentieth century. It is both a medical specialty and an organized global health sector, responsible for millions of stakeholders worldwide. This introductory chapter goes beyond concepts and data, addressing the initiative behind the “Nephrology Worldwide” book in all its spheres: the vision, the project, and the mission. We also curated a selection of nephrology highlights in the countries from local nephrologists’ view. Finally, we summarize our vision on education and future perspectives for nephrology.

In a groundbreaking meeting, leading global kidney disease organizations came together in the fall of 2020 as an International Home Dialysis Roundtable (IHDR) to address strategies to increase access to and uptake of home dialysis, both peritoneal dialysis and home hemodialysis. This challenge has become urgent in the wake of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, during which patients with advanced kidney disease, who are more susceptible to viral infections and severe complications, must be able to safely physically distance at home. To boost access to home dialysis on a global scale, IHDR members committed to collaborate, through the COVID-19 public health emergency and beyond, to promote uptake of home dialysis on a broad scale. Their commitments included increasing the reach and influence of key stakeholders with policy makers, building a cooperative of advocates and champions for home dialysis, working together to increase patient engagement and empowerment, and sharing intelligence about policy, education, and other programs so that such efforts can be operationalized globally. In the spirit of international cooperation, IHDR members agreed to document, amplify, and replicate established efforts shown to improve access to home dialysis and support new policies that facilitate access through procedures, innovation, and reimbursement. (C) 2021 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Few studies have discussed the role of peritoneal dialysis (PD) in managing acute kidney injury (AKI) in critically ill patients. The present study compares the outcome of AKI in intensive care unit (ICU) patients randomized to treatment with tidal PD (TPD) or continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF). One hundred and twenty-five ICU patients with AKI were randomly allotted to CVVHDF, (Group A, N = 62) or TPD, (group B, N = 63). Cause and severity of renal injury were assessed at the time of initiating dialysis. The primary outcome was hospital mortality at 28 days, and secondary outcomes were time to recovery of renal function, duration of stay in the ICU, metabolic and fluid control, and improvement of sensorial and hemodynamic parameters. No statistically significant differences were observed between groups in regard to patients' characteristics. The survival at 28 days was significantly better in the patients treated with TPD when compared to CVVHDF (69.8% vs. 46.8%, P < 0.01). Infectious complications were significantly less (P < 0.01) in the TPD group (9.5%) when compared to the CVVHDF group (17.7%). Recovery of kidney function (60.3% vs. 35.5%), median time to resolution of AKI and the median duration of ICU stay of 9 days (7-11) vs. 19 days (13-20) were all in favor of TPD (P < 0.01). This study suggests that there are better outcomes with TPD compared to CRRT in the treatment of critically ill patients with AKI.

Existe um velho ditado que diz: “Mais vale prevenir do que remediar”. Quando cheguei ao Hospital Universitario de Lund, Suecia, em 1979, fiquei maravilhado com a organizacao do Departamento de Nefrologia, o Hospital Universitario e o Sistema de Saude sueco. Algumas pessoas eram encaminhadas pelos medicos dos distritos para o ambulatorio de nefrologia porque tinha sido detectada proteinuria ou hematuria microscopica no exame de urina, um dos procedimentos do exame medico a que eram submetidos para obterem (os jovens) ou [...]

Background/PurposeThe peritoneal membrane of long-term peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients is characterized by morphological and microvascular changes. It is said that lactate-based peritoneal dialysate is implicated in the development of these changes. The aim of this study is to compare the effects of long-term exposure to glucose-based, lactate-buffered (Dianeal), and biocompatible bicarbonate/lactate-buffered, low glucose degradation product (Physioneal) peritoneal solutions on the peritoneal membrane.MethodsThirty-nine incident PD patients were randomized into two groups: 19 patients with Dianeal dialysate (Group A) and 20 with biocompatible Physioneal dialysate (Group B). All patients used automated PD for a median of 31 months in Group A and 32 months in Group B. Three biopsies at one occasion only were taken from the peritoneal membrane at the end of the study. All samples were collected and fixed in accordance with a standardized protocol, and a histopathologist blinded to the clinical status and PD solutions allocated to the patients carried out the analysis.ResultsThe commonest change observed was peritoneal fibrosis, seen in 35 out of 39 cases (89.7%); it was moderate to severe in 28 cases (71.8%) and mild in 11 (28.2%) cases. This was followed by loss of mesothelial cells (22 cases, 56.4%), elastosis (20 cases, 51.3%), increased blood vessels (15 cases, 38.5%), thick-walled blood vessels (10 cases, 25.6%), and finally chronic inflammation and mesothelial cell hyperplasia (7 cases, 17.9%, and 6 cases, 15.4%, respectively). Of the patients with blood vessel abnormalities, 22 (88.0%) exhibited significant fibrosis and only three (12.0%) did not. Of those without blood vessel changes, only six (42.9%) patients exhibited similar degree of fibrosis (p 0.05)；嚴重間質纖維化分別發生於 42.1% 及 45.0% 的病人，中度間質纖維化則分別發生於 31.6% 及 25.0% 的病人 (p > 0.05)。在 A 組及 B 組的病人之間，彈性組織變性 (elastosis) 達到 “3+” 的比率分別為 15.8% 及 20.0%，達到 “2+” 的比率分別為 15.8% 及 15.0% (p > 0.05)；異常微血管增加則分別出現於 42.1% 及 35.0% 的病人 (p > 0.05)。在糖尿病患者之間、及接受 PD 較久的病人之間，腹膜病理性變化的比率均有所增加 (p

Objective In a number of patients, the antidiabetic drug metformin has been associated with lactic acidosis. Despite the fact that diabetes mellitus is the most common cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and that peritoneal dialysis (PD) is an expanding modality of treatment, little is known about optimal treatment strategies in the large group of PD patients with diabetes. In patients with ESRD, the use of metformin has been limited because of the perceived risk of lactic acidosis or severe hypoglycemia. However, metformin use is likely to be beneficial, and PD might itself be a safeguard against the alleged complications. Methods Our study involved 35 patients with insulin-dependent type 2 diabetes [median age: 54 years; interquartile range (IQR): 47–59 years] on automated PD (APD) therapy. Patients with additional risk factors for lactic acidosis were excluded. Metformin was introduced at a daily dose in the range 0.5 – 1.0 g. All patients were monitored for glycemic control by blood sugar levels and HbA1c. Plasma lactic acid levels were measured weekly for 4 weeks and then monthly to the end of the study. Plasma and effluent metformin and plasma lactate levels were measured simultaneously. Results In this cohort, the median duration of diabetes was 18 years (IQR: 14 – 21 years), median time on PD was 31 months (IQR: 27 – 36 months), and median HbA1c was 6.8% (IQR: 5.9% – 6.9%). At metformin introduction and at the end of the study, the median anion gap was 11 mmol/L (IQR: 9 – 16 mmol/L) and 12 mmol/L (IQR: 9 – 16 mmol/L; p > 0.05) respectively, median pH was 7.33 (IQR: 7.32 – 7.36) and 7.34 (IQR: 7.32 – 7.36, p > 0.05) respectively, and mean metformin concentration in plasma and peritoneal fluid was 2.57 ± 1.49 mg/L and 2.83 ± 1.7 mg/L respectively. In the group overall, mean lactate was 1.39 ± 0.61 mmol/L, and hyperlactemia (>2 mmol/L to 5 mmol/L) was found in 4 of 525 plasma samples (0.76%), but the patients presented no symptoms. None of the patients registered a plasma lactate level above 5 mmol/L. We observed no correlation between plasma metformin and plasma lactate ( r = 0.27). Conclusions Metformin may be used with caution in APD patients with insulin-dependent type 2 diabetes. Although our study demonstrated the feasibility of metformin use in APD, it was not large enough to demonstrate safety; a large-scale study is needed.

Background and Objectives A large proportion of the patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD) in Brazil have low levels of education and family income. The present study assessed whether education level and family income are associated with baseline and longitudinal changes in health-related quality of life (HRQOL) scores during the first year of PD therapy. Methods We evaluated 1624 incident patients from the Brazilian Peritoneal Dialysis Multicenter Study (BRAZPD) at baseline, and 486 of them after 12 months. The SF-36 was used to determine HRQOL and the Karnofsky index (KI), physical performance. Results At baseline, patients received high KI scores compared with scores on the SF-36. The means of the mental and physical components at baseline and after 12 months were 39.9 ± 10.5 compared with 38.7 ± 11.7 and 41.8 ± 9.6 compared with 40.7 ± 9.8 respectively, which were not statistically different. A multivariate regression analysis showed that age, sex, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease were predictors of the mental component (respectively, β = 0.12, p < 0.001; β = 0.11, p < 0.001; β = –0.08, β = 0.007; and β = –0.07, p = 0.007) and that age, sex, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hemoglobin, glucose, and creatinine were predictors of the physical component (respectively, β = –0.28, p < 0.001; β = 0.06, p = 0.009; β = –0.09, p = 0.002; β = –0.09, p = 0.001; β = 0.07, p = 0.004; β = –0.05, p = 0.040; and β = 0.05, p = 0.040). Education level and family income were not significantly associated with HRQOL (mental and physical components) in the multivariate regression. Conclusions The results indicate that, as predictors, family income and education level have no impact on HRQOL, supporting the idea that socio-economic status should not be a barrier to the selection of PD as a treatment modality in Brazil.

Introduction Automated assisted peritoneal dialysis (AAPD) has been shown to be successful as renal replacement therapy for elderly and physically incapable end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. In early 2003, a pioneer AAPD program was initiated at GAMEN Renal Clinic in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Objective We evaluated the results of an AAPD program offered as an option to elderly ESRD patients with physical or cognitive debilities or as last resort to patients with vascular access failure or hemodynamic instability during hemodialysis. Methods A cohort of 30 consecutive patients started AAPD from January 2003 to March 2008 and was followed to July 2009. Demographics, clinical and laboratory parameters, causes of death, and patient and technique survival were analyzed. Results Median age of the patients was 72 years (range: 47 – 93 years), with 60% being older than 65. The Davies score was greater than 2 in 73% of patients, and the Karnofsky index was less than 70 in 40%. The overall peritonitis rate was 1 episode in 37 patient–months. The total duration of AAPD ranged from 3 to 72 months. Patient survival was 80% at 12 months, 60% at 24 months, and 23.3% at 48 months. The most common cause of death was cardiovascular problems (70%). Conclusions In this clinical observational study, AAPD fulfilled its expected role, offering an opportune, reliable, and effective homecare alternative for ESRD patients with no other renal replacement therapy options.

A good catheter implantation technique is important to allow for effective peritoneal access function and long-term technique survival. Studies regarding results obtained by nephrologists in comparison with surgeons have been limited to small single-center experiences. Thus, the objective of this study was to explore the impact of the peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter insertion operator on early catheter complications and on technique survival in a large national multicentric cohort study (Brazilian Peritoneal Dialysis Multicentric Study, BRAZPD). Adult incident patients recruited in the BRAZPD from December 2004 to October 2007 having undergone first PD catheter implantation were included in the analysis. Mechanical and infectious early complication rates were defined as time to the first event occurring up to 3 months after catheter insertion and adjusted for comorbidities. Valid data of 736 patients (mean age of 59 ± 16 years old, 52% women, 61% white) were analyzed. Mechanical (HR 0.99 [CI 0.56-1.76]; p = 0.98) and infectious (HR 0.63 [CI 0.32-1.23]; p = 0.17) early complication rates were similar between groups. Long-term catheter survival was also similar between groups. Early complications rates and catheter survival were similar between groups defined by operator profile (nephrologist or surgeon), supporting the role of interventional nephrology in the placement of PD catheters.

Summary Background and objectives Peritonitis remains as the most frequent cause of peritoneal dialysis (PD) failure, impairing patient9s outcome. No large multicenter study has addressed socioeconomic, educational, and geographic issues as peritonitis risk factors in countries with a large geographic area and diverse socioeconomic conditions, such as Brazil. Design, setting, participants, & measurements Incident PD patients recruited from 114 dialysis centers and reporting to BRAZPD, a multicenter observational study, from December 2004 through October 2007 were included. Clinical, dialysis-related, demographic, and socioeconomic variables were analyzed. Patients were followed up until their first peritonitis. Cox proportional model was used to determine independent factors associated with peritonitis. Results In a cumulative follow-up of 2032 patients during 22.026 patient-months, 474 (23.3%) presented a first peritonitis episode. In contrast to earlier findings, PD modality, previous hemodialysis, diabetes, gender, age, and family income were not risk predictors. Factors independently associated with increased hazard risk were lower educational level, non-white race, region where patients live, shorter distance from dialysis center, and lower number of patients per center. Conclusions Educational level and geographic factors as well as race and center size are associated with risk for the first peritonitis, independent of socioeconomic status, PD modality, and comorbidities.

INTRODUÇÃO: O Brasil é um país continental com grande diversidade demográfica, social e cultural. Esse fator pode determinar diferenças demográficas, clínicas e no desfecho apresentado por pacientes portadores de doença renal crônica em diálise peritoneal (DP). OBJETIVO: Avaliar as características clínicas e os desfechos apresentados por pacientes em DP nas diversas regiões do Brasil, analisando uma coorte de pacientes (BRAZPD) no período de dezembro de 2004 a outubro de 2007. PACIENTES E MÉTODOS: Os dados foram coletados mensalmente e os pacientes foram acompanhados até o desfecho (óbito, transplante renal, recuperação da função renal, transferência para hemodiálise ou perda de seguimento). RESULTADOS: Avaliados 5.819 pacientes incidentes e prevalentes. A maioria dos pacientes realizava terapia renal substitutiva (TRS) no Sudeste, onde a média de tempo de acompanhamento foi maior (12,3 meses) e há maior percentual de idosos (36,4%). A prevalência de diabetes mellitus é maior no Sudeste e Sul do país (38,1% e 37%, respectivamente). A maioria dos pacientes da região Norte realizou hemodiálise previamente, 66,2%. A taxa de saída por óbito foi maior na região Norte (30,1%), assim como por falência da técnica (22,3%). CONCLUSÃO: Os dados revelam diferenças demográficas, clínicas e em taxas de mortalidade e falência da técnica de DP refletindo as peculiaridades demográficas e sociais do Brasil. A geografia da DP no Brasil demonstra ser um espelho da geografia do Brasil. Portanto, políticas de saúde devem levar em conta as características de cada região para que possamos melhorar a sobrevida dos pacientes e da técnica em diálise peritoneal. INTRODUCTION: Brazil is a continental country with great diversity of population, social and cultural. This factor may determine different demographic, clinical and outcome presented by patients with chronic kidney disease on peritoneal dialysis (PD). OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical characteristics and outcomes presented by PD patients in different regions of Brazil, analyzing a cohort of patients (BRAZPD) in the period 12/2004 to 10/2007. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Data were collected monthly and patients were followed until the outcome (death, renal transplantation, renal function recovery, transfer to hemodialysis or loss of follow-up). RESULTS: We evaluated 5.819 patients incident and prevalent. Most patients performed renal replacement therapy (RRT) in the Southeast, where the average follow up time was longer (12.3 months) and there is a higher percentage of elderly (36.4%). The prevalence of diabetes is higher in Southeast and South (38.1% and 37%, respectively). Most patients in the North region had previously hemodialysis (66.2%). The mortality was higher in the Northern region (30.1%), as well as failure of the technique (22.3%). CONCLUSION: The data shows different demographic, clinical, mortality and technique failure of PD reflecting the demographic and social peculiarities of Brazil. The geography of the DP in Brazil proves to be a mirror of the geography of Brazil. So health policies should take into account the characteristics of each region so we can improve patient survival and technique on peritoneal dialysis.

Background Insulin resistance is a common risk factor in chronic kidney disease patients contributing to the high cardiovascular burden, even in the absence of diabetes. Glucose-based peritoneal dialysis (PD) solutions are thought to intensify insulin resistance due to the continuous glucose absorption from the peritoneal cavity. The aim of our study was to analyse the effect of the substitution of glucose for icodextrin on insulin resistance in non-diabetic PD patients in a multicentric randomized clinical trial. Methods This was a multicenter, open-label study with balanced randomization (1:1) and two parallel-groups. Inclusion criteria were non-diabetic adult patients on automated peritoneal dialysis (APD) for at least 3 months on therapy prior to randomization. Patients assigned to the intervention group were treated with 2L of icodextrin 7.5%, and the control group with glucose 2.5% during the long dwell and, at night in the cycler, with a prescription of standard glucose-based PD solution only in both groups. The primary end-point was the change in insulin resistance measured by homeostatic model assessment (HOMA) index at 90 days. Results Sixty patients were included in the intervention (n = 33) or the control (n = 27) groups. There was no difference between groups at baseline. After adjustment for pre-intervention HOMA index levels, the group treated with icodextrin had the lower post-intervention levels at 90 days in both intention to treat [1.49 (95% CI: 1.23-1.74) versus 1.89 (95% CI: 1.62-2.17)], (F = 4.643, P = 0.03, partial η(2) = 0.078); and the treated analysis [1.47 (95% CI: 1.01-1.84) versus 2.18 (95% CI: 1.81-2.55)], (F = 7.488, P = 0.01, partial η(2) = 0.195). Conclusions The substitution of glucose for icodextrin for the long dwell improved insulin resistance measured by HOMA index in non-diabetic APD patients.

Background The purpose of this study was to evaluate potency changes in insulin in different solutions and bag materials used for peritoneal dialysis (PD). One of the PD solutions (Physioneal) tested is available in two different solution containers, PVC and Clear-Flex. Four insulin concentrations (4 IU/L, 10 IU/L, 20 IU/L, and 40 IU/L) were evaluated. This range of concentrations was defined in accordance with standard medical practice. All PD solutions made by Baxter, Castlebar, Ireland. Methods Insulin determination was performed by immunoassay (ELISA). Results In Dianeal, more than 90% of the initial dose of insulin remained available up to 24 hours for all concentrations tested. In Physioneal, for the higher concentrations tested (10 IU/L, 20 IU/L, and 40 IU/L), more than 90% of the initial dose of insulin remained available up to 6 hours, and more than 80% up to 24 hours. For the lowest concentration of insulin tested in Physioneal (4 IU/L), more than 90% of the initial dose of insulin remained available up to 3 hours, and more than 70% up to 24 hours. Also for the lowest concentration of insulin, recovery correlated with the pH of the tested solutions. This effect became apparent over the storage time. Conclusions The data show that insulin adsorption is less than 10% during the first 3 hours for every PD solution tested. Insulin recovery tends to be stable or to decrease slightly over time for the lower insulin concentrations tested. The results for insulin recovery show a correlation with insulin concentration and with pH for the lowest insulin dose tested. From a solution–container interaction perspective, Clear-Flex is an equivalent alternative to standard PVC material.

Introduction: In an attempt to decrease mortality in patients with end-stage renal disease, an increase in the lifetime of these patients without much focus on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) was pursued for a long period of time. However, lately, an improvement in the quality of this extended lifetime has focused on both the physical as well as the social and emotional aspects, as these parameters may be associated with clinical outcomes in end-stage renal disease patients. Aim: To evaluate the impact of self-determined HRQOL at admission on survival of incident peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Patients and Methods: A total of 1,624 incident Brazilian PD patients participating in a multicenter prospective cohort study (BRAZPD) were evaluated. HRQOL was assessed using the SF-36, divided into mental and physical components. Cox proportional regression analysis was used to determine the influence of HRQOL (mental and physical components) on mortality. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards analyses were used to adjust gradually for more potential explanatory variables: first for demographic variables, followed by additional adjustment for socioeconomic, clinical and laboratory variables. The significance level in all analyses was set at p < 0.05. All analyses were carried out with SPSS 17.0. Results: Incident PD patients presented with low HRQOL scores on admission to therapy. Even after correction for sociodemographic variables, comorbidities, PD modality and laboratory parameters, HRQOL (both the mental and the physical components) remained a predictor [HR: 0.97 (CI: 0.95-0.98); HR: 0.97 (CI: 0.96-0.99), respectively] of survival. Conclusion: On admission to therapy, patients presenting with low HRQOL scores for both the mental and the physical components were associated with a higher mortality. These results suggest that early and timely intervention measures to improve the QOL of these patients are important.

Peritonitis remains the main cause of peritoneal dialysis (PD) technique failure worldwide, despite significant reductions in infection rates observed over the past decades. Several studies have described risk factors for peritonitis, technique failure and mortality. However, there are scarce data regarding predictors of complications during and after a peritonitis episode. The aim of our study was to analyze predictors of peritonitis-related outcome in the Brazilian Peritoneal Dialysis study (BRAZPD) cohort.All adult incident patients recruited in the BRAZPD Study between December 2004 and October 2007, who remained at least 90 days on PD and presented their first peritonitis episode (n = 474 patients) were included in the study. The endpoints analyzed were non-resolution, death due to a peritonitis episode and long-term technique survival after a peritonitis episode.In the multivariable regression, non-resolution was independently associated with older age (odds ratio (OR) 1.02; p0.01), collagenosis as the primary renal disease (OR 4.6; p0.05) and Pseudomonas spp as etiological agent (OR 2.9; p0.05). Patients who were transferred from APD to CAPD during peritonitis therapy presented a higher risk of non-response (OR 2.5; p0.05). The only factor associated with death during a peritonitis episode was older age (OR 1.04; p0.05). Exposure to vancomycin and male gender were the independent predictors of long-term technique failure (OR 2.2; p0.01).Apart from confirming previous observations of the negative impact of older age and Pseudomonas spp peritonitis on outcomes, we observed that collagenosis may negatively impact response to treatment and exposure to vancomycin may possibly reduce long-term technique survival. It is important to emphasize that the association of vancomycin with technique failure does not prove causality. These findings shed light on new factors predicting outcome when peritonitis is diagnosed.

Background: There are no available epidemiologic studies about the impact of ethnicity on outcomes of patients treated with peritoneal dialysis (PD) in South America. This study aims to assess the effect of ethnicity on the mortality of incident PD patients in Brazil. Study Design: Prospective observational cohort study of incident patients treated with PD. Settings & Participants: Patients 18 years or older who started PD therapy between December 2004 and October 2007 in 114 Brazilian dialysis centers. Predictors: Self-reported ethnicity defined by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics as black and brown versus white patients and baseline demographic, socioeconomic, clinical, and laboratory data were collected at baseline. Outcome: Mortality, using cumulative mortality curves in which kidney transplantation and transfer to hemodialysis therapy were treated as competing end points. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis was used to adjust for gradually more potential explanatory variables, censored for kidney transplantation and transfer to hemodialysis therapy. Analyses were performed for all patients, as well as stratified for elderly (aged 65 years) and nonelderly patients. Results: 1,370 patients were white, 516 were brown, and 273 were black. The competing-risk model showed higher mortality in white patients compared with black and brown patients. With white patients as the reference, Cox proportional hazards analysis showed a crude HR for mortality of 0.77 (95% CI, 0.56-1.05) for black and 0.74 (95% CI, 0.59-0.94) for brown patients. After adjusting for potential explanatory factors, HRs were 0.67 (95% CI, 0.48-0.95) and 0.77 (95% CI, 0.43-1.01), respectively. The same results were observed in elderly and nonelderly patients. Limitations: Ethnicity was self-determined and some misclassification might have occurred. Conclusions: Black and brown Brazilian incident PD patients have a lower mortality risk compared with white patients. Am J Kidney Dis. 62(1):89-96. © 2013 by the National Kidney Foundation, Inc.

Purpose Exit-site infection (ESI) and peritonitis remain the major causes of morbidity and mortality in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. This study compared the effectiveness of local mupirocin ointment and gentamicin cream in preventing both gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial infections in PD patients. Methods Patients from two centers (n = 203) were assigned to daily mupirocin ointment or gentamicin cream application. Infections were tracked prospectively by organisms and expressed as episodes per patient-year for both ESI and peritonitis. Results The rate of gram-positive ESI was 0.31/episode/patient-year and 0.22 episodes/patient-year (pConclusion Prolonged use of mupirocin for ESI-prophylaxis is associated with the emergence of mupirocin-resistant S. aureus. Gentamicin cream is superior to mupirocin ointment in the prevention of PD catheter infections.

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients may suffer changes in nutritional status after starting PD. Several markers can be used to evaluate these modifications, such as body mass index (BMI), serum albumin, and serum creatinine. Fluid overload should be considered because it can overestimate or underestimate nutritional status. The objective of this study was to evaluate the BMI changes over time in incident PD patients and identify interactions among BMI, signs of fluid overload, serum albumin, and serum creatinine.The study included a cohort of 1,997 incident PD patients of the BRAZPD recruited from 2004 to 2007. Sociodemographic data and BMI classification were obtained at baseline. The evolutions of BMI and body weight were assessed over a period of 29 months. Changes in the evolution were analyzed when a patient presented with albumin3.8 g/dL, creatinine7.0 mg/dL, or the presence of edema. Data analysis was performed using linear mixed-effects regression models as the main statistical procedure.BMI increased over time (29 months) by an average of 0.05 kg/m(2) per month, and body weight increased by 0.11 kg/month for a total increase of 3.08 kg. BMI decreased by 0.12 kg/m(2) in the presence of albumin3.8 g/dL and by 0.38 kg/m(2) in the presence of creatinine7.0 mg/dL. BMI increased by 0.61 kg/m(2) in the presence of edema. BMI increased in the presence of edema and albumin3.8 mg/dL or edema and creatinine7.0 mg/dL.There is a mean increase in the BMI of incident PD patients over time, and these changes may be, at least partly, due to fluid overload, leading to distortions of body weight. When the patients presented with lower serum albumin or creatinine levels, the BMI values were reduced, suggesting that a reduction in lean mass and an increase in fat mass may be occurring in these patients.

Introduction Integrated Care Settings (ICS) provide a holistic approach to the transition from chronic kidney disease into renal replacement therapy (RRT), offering at least both types of dialysis. Objectives To analyze which factors determine type of referral, modality provision and dialysis start on final RRT in ICS clinics. Methods Retrospective analysis of 626 patients starting dialysis in 25 ICS clinics in Poland, Hungary and Romania during 2012. Scheduled initiation of dialysis with a permanent access was considered as planned RRT start. Results Modality information (80% of patients) and renal education (87%) were more frequent (p8.2 ml/min, >2 months between information and RRT initiation and with vascular etiology after adjustment for age and gender. “Optimal care,” defined as ICS follow-up >12 months plus modality information and P start, occurred in 23%. Conclusions Despite the high rate of late referrals, information and education were widely provided. However, NP start was high and related to late referral and may explain the low frequency of PD.

Systematic data collection of patients undergoing renal replacement therapy is critical to the epidemiological and clinical understanding of the treatment. These data may allow more rational use of economic resources and identify interventions to improve treatment and decrease the morbidity and mortality of these patients. The Brazilian Peritoneal Dialysis Multicenter Study (BRAZPD), an observational cohort study of peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients in Brazil, aimed to collect monthly demographics, clinical, laboratory and outcome data of PD patients treated in 114 dialysis clinics around the country, was started in December 2004 and ended in September 2011. BRAZPD has been generating solid and important information, which is very useful as a reality check of the PD therapy for all Brazilian PD centers.

A good catheter implantation technique is important to allow for effective peritoneal access function and long-term technique survival. Studies regarding results obtained by nephrologists in comparison with surgeons have been limited to small single-center experiences. Thus, the objective of this study was to explore the impact of the peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter insertion operator on early catheter complications and on technique survival in a large national multicentric cohort study (Brazilian Peritoneal Dialysis Multicentric Study, BRAZPD). Adult incident patients recruited in the BRAZPD from December 2004 to October 2007 having undergone first PD catheter implantation were included in the analysis. Mechanical and infectious early complication rates were defined as time to the first event occurring up to 3 months after catheter insertion and adjusted for comorbidities. Valid data of 736 patients (mean age of 59 ± 16 years old, 52% women, 61% white) were analyzed. Mechanical (HR 0.99 [CI 0.56-1.76]; p = 0.98) and infectious (HR 0.63 [CI 0.32-1.23]; p = 0.17) early complication rates were similar between groups. Long-term catheter survival was also similar between groups. Early complications rates and catheter survival were similar between groups defined by operator profile (nephrologist or surgeon), supporting the role of interventional nephrology in the placement of PD catheters.

Systematic data collection of patients undergoing renal replacement therapy is critical to the epidemiological and clinical understanding of the treatment. These data may allow more rational use of economic resources and identify interventions to improve treatment and decrease the morbidity and mortality of these patients. The Brazilian Peritoneal Dialysis Multicenter Study (BRAZPD), an observational cohort study of peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients in Brazil, aimed to collect monthly demographics, clinical, laboratory and outcome data of PD patients treated in 114 dialysis clinics around the country, was started in December 2004 and ended in September 2011. BRAZPD has been generating solid and important information, which is very useful as a reality check of the PD therapy for all Brazilian PD centers.

Texto completo: acesso restrito. p. 1676-1683 Submitted by Edileide Reis (leyde-landy@hotmail.com) on 2014-04-15T13:38:43Z No. of bitstreams: 1 Antonio Alberto Lopes.pdf: 121182 bytes, checksum: 4f93f22ce5c68bf956b79a3a2072b338 (MD5) Approved for entry into archive by Flávia Ferreira (flaviaccf@yahoo.com.br) on 2015-10-13T13:00:07Z (GMT) No. of bitstreams: 1 Antonio Alberto Lopes.pdf: 121182 bytes, checksum: 4f93f22ce5c68bf956b79a3a2072b338 (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2015-10-13T13:00:07Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Antonio Alberto Lopes.pdf: 121182 bytes, checksum: 4f93f22ce5c68bf956b79a3a2072b338 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2011 Background and Objectives Although low socioeconomic status has been considered a contraindication to peritoneal dialysis (PD), no published data clearly link it to poor outcomes. The goal of this study was assessing the effect of income on survival in the Brazilian Peritoneal Dialysis Multicenter Study. Design, setting, participants, & measurements Incident PD patients enrolled in this prospective cohort from December 2004 to October 2007 were divided according to monthly family income. The median age was 59 years, 54% were women, 60% Caucasians, 41% diabetics, and 24% had cardiovascular disease. Most of them were in continuous ambulatory PD, had not received predialysis care, had

INTRODUÇÃO: O número de pacientes em diálise peritoneal (DP) no Brasil é significativo, havendo maior prevalência de diabéticos e idosos neste grupo do que no grupo em hemodiálise. Esses dados apontam para um viés de seleção nessa população. Objetivo: Avaliar a qualidade de vida (QdV) na admissão de pacientes em diálise peritoneal no Brasil. MÉTODOS: Avaliados 6.198 pacientes participantes de um estudo de coorte prospectivo multicêntrico, utilizando-se os dados do BRAZPD. A avaliação da QdV foi realizada segundo o índice de Karnofsky (avaliação da QdV pelo profissional de saúde) e segundo o SF-36 (autoavaliação pelo paciente) em 1.624 pacientes incidentes. RESULTADOS: Entre os pacientes analisados, 40% eram diabéticos e 47% eram idosos (acima de 60 anos). Os pacientes apresentaram baixos escores de QdV em todos os aspectos do SF-36, sendo o domínio "aspectos físicos" o mais prejudicado. O domínio que apresentou melhor escore foi "aspecto social". Por outro lado, segundo o índice de Karnofsky, a maior parte dos pacientes possuía altos escores de QdV. Idosos e diabéticos apresentaram qualidade de vida inferior quando comparados aos não idosos e não diabéticos através da avaliação pelo SF-36 e pelo Karnofsky. CONCLUSÃO: Na avaliação geral pelo SF-36 observou-se redução da qualidade de vida. A avaliação pelo Karnofsky apresentou melhor performance comparado ao SF-36 na avaliação geral da qualidade de vida, sendo encontrados resultados semelhantes entre os dois instrumentos no que diz respeitos aos subgrupos avaliados, onde os grupos que apresentaram pior QdV foram pacientes diabéticos e idosos em ambas as avaliações. Introduction: The number of patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD) in Brazil is significant, with a higher prevalence of diabetic and elderly individuals on PD than on hemodialysis. These data point to a selection bias in that population. Objective: To assess the quality of life (QOL) of patients starting PD in Brazil. Methods: The study assessed 6,198 patients participating in a multicenter prospective cohort study, using data from BRAZPD. The QOL was assessed by use of the Karnofsky index (QOL assessment by health professionals) and the SF-36 (patient’s self-assessment) in 1,624 incident patients. Results: Of the patients analyzed, 40% were diabetic and 47% were elderly (over the age of 60 years). Patients had low QOL scores in all the SF-36 domains, the “physical role” domain being the most affected and the “social functioning” domain having the best score. On the other hand, according to the Karnofsky index, most patients had high QOL scores. Elderly and diabetic patients had lower QOL as compared with non-elderly and non-diabetic by using both the SF-36 and Karnofsky index. Conclusion: The overall evaluation by use of the SF-36 showed a reduction in the QOL. The Karnofsky index showed a better QOL as compared with the SF-36 assessment, but similar results were found in the subgroups evaluated: the ederly and the diabetic patients had the worst QOL in both assessments.

The number of patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD) in Brazil is significant, with a higher prevalence of diabetic and elderly individuals on PD than on hemodialysis. These data point to a selection bias in that population.To assess the quality of life (QOL) of patients starting PD in Brazil.The study assessed 6,198 patients participating in a multicenter prospective cohort study, using data from BRAZPD. The QOL was assessed by use of the Karnofsky index (QOL assessment by health professionals) and the SF-36 (patient's self-assessment) in 1,624 incident patients.Of the patients analyzed, 40% were diabetic and 47% were elderly (over the age of 60 years). Patients had low QOL scores in all the SF-36 domains, the "physical role" domain being the most affected and the "social functioning" domain having the best score. On the other hand, according to the Karnofsky index, most patients had high QOL scores. Elderly and diabetic patients had lower QOL as compared with non-elderly and non-diabetic by using both the SF-36 and Karnofsky index.The overall evaluation by use of the SF-36 showed a reduction in the QOL. The Karnofsky index showed a better QOL as compared with the SF-36 assessment, but similar results were found in the subgroups evaluated: the ederly and the diabetic patients had the worst QOL in both assessments.

Brazil is a continental country with great diversity of population, social and cultural. This factor may determine different demographic, clinical and outcome presented by patients with chronic kidney disease on peritoneal dialysis (PD).To evaluate the clinical characteristics and outcomes presented by PD patients in different regions of Brazil, analyzing a cohort of patients (BRAZPD) in the period 12/2004 to 10/2007.Data were collected monthly and patients were followed until the outcome (death, renal transplantation, renal function recovery, transfer to hemodialysis or loss of follow-up).We evaluated 5.819 patients incident and prevalent. Most patients performed renal replacement therapy (RRT) in the Southeast, where the average follow up time was longer (12.3 months) and there is a higher percentage of elderly (36.4%). The prevalence of diabetes is higher in Southeast and South (38.1% and 37%, respectively). Most patients in the North region had previously hemodialysis (66.2%). The mortality was higher in the Northern region (30.1%), as well as failure of the technique (22.3%).The data shows different demographic, clinical, mortality and technique failure of PD reflecting the demographic and social peculiarities of Brazil. The geography of the DP in Brazil proves to be a mirror of the geography of Brazil. So health policies should take into account the characteristics of each region so we can improve patient survival and technique on peritoneal dialysis.

Latin America is a heterogeneous region comprised of 20 countries, former colonies of European countries, in which Latin-derived languages are spoken. According to the Latin American Society of Nephrology and Hypertension/Sociedad Latino Americana de Nefrologia e Hipertensión (SLANH), the acceptance rate for renal replacement therapy is 103 new patients per million population. In Latin America, hemodialysis is the predominant form of replacement therapy for end-stage renal disease; however, some countries employ peritoneal dialysis (PD) in 30% or more patients. In particular, Mexico is the country with the largest PD utilization in the world, and furthermore, it is estimated that approximately 25% of the world's PD population may be found Latin America. Data concerning clinical practice and long-term outcome of PD in Latin America are scarce, although regional registries are increasing in number and quality. In this review article, we present an overview of the situation of PD in several countries of Latin America, based on the registry of the SLANH, national registries, and personal communication with PD experts from different countries.

Factors predicting malnutrition in hemodialysis patients: A cross-sectional study. Signs of protein-energy malnutrition are common in maintenance hemodialyis (HD) patients and are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. To evaluate the nutritional status and relationship between various parameters used for assessing malnutrition, we performed a cross-sectional study in 128 unselected patients treated with hemodialysis (HD) thrice weekly for at least two weeks. Global nutritional status was evaluated by the subjective global nutritional assessment (SGNA). Body weight, skinfold thicknesses converted into % body fat mass (BFM), mid-arm muscle circumference, hand-grip strength and several laboratory values, including serum albumin (S Alb ), plasma insulin-like growth factor I (p-IGF-I), serum C-reactive protein (S CRP ) and plasma free amino acids, were recorded. Dose of dialysis and protein equivalence of nitrogen appearance (nPNA) were evaluated by urea kinetic modeling. The patients were subdivided into three groups based on SGNA: group I, normal nutritional status (36%); group II, mild malnutrition (51%); and group III, moderate or (in 2 cases) severe malnutrition (13%). Clinical factors associated with malnutrition were: high age, presence of cardiovascular disease and diabetes mellitus. nPNA and Kt/V urea were similar in the three groups. However, when normalized to desirable body wt, both were lower in groups II and III than in group I. Anthropometric factors associated with malnutrition were low body wt, skinfold thickness, mid-arm muscle circumference (MAMC), and hand-grip strength. Biochemical factors associated with malnutrition were low serum levels of albumin and creatinine and low plasma levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and branched-chain amino acids (isoleucine, leucine and valine). The serum albumin (S Alb ) level was not only a predictor of nutritional status, but was independently influenced by age, sex and S CRP . Plasma IGF-1 levels also reflected the presence and severity of malnutrition and appeared to be more closely associated than S Alb with anthropometric and biochemical indices of somatic protein mass. Elevated S CRP (> 20 mg/liter), which mainly reflected the presence of infection/inflammation and was associated with hypoalbuminemia, was more common in malnourished patients than in patients with normal nutritional status, and also more common in elderly than in younger patients. Plasma amino acid levels, with the possible exception of the branched-chain amino acids (isoleucine, leucine, valine), seem to be poor predictors of nutritional status in hemodialysis patients.

Introduction: Data on impact of high body mass index (BMI) on mortality of patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD), especially among elderly, are inconsistent. Objective: To evaluate impact of BMI on cohort of incident elderly PD patients over time. Methods: Prospective multicenter cohort study (December / 2004-October/2007) with 674 patients. Socio-demographic and clinical data evaluated with patients followed until death, transfer to hemodialysis (HD), recovery of renal function, loss of follow-up or transplant. Patients were divided into incident on renal replacement therapy (RRT) for PD (PD first: 230) and transferred from hemodialysis (HD first: 444). Analysis was performed comparing these two groups using chi-square or Kruskal Wallis. Similar analysis was used to compare patients on automated peritoneal dialysis (APD) vs. continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). Data were compared between patients according to BMI by ANOVA, Kruskal Wallis or chi-square. For analysis of survival, Kaplan Meier method was used and to adjust confounding variables, Cox regression proportional hazard. Joint model for longitudinal and time-dependent data was conducted, assessing impact that a longitudinal variable displays on time of survival. Results: Malnourished patients (76.79 ± 7.53 years) were older (p < 0.0001) with higher percentage of death (44.6%, p = 0.001); diabetes mellitus showed high prevalence in obese patients (68%, p < 0.0001); higher blood pressure levels (p = 0.002) were present in obese and overweight patients. Conclusions: Increased BMI variation over time proved to be a protective factor, with a decrease of about 1% in risk of death for every BMI unit earned.

Various studies suggest a strong association between nutrition and clinical outcome in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Several morbidity factors that per se increase the risk of a poor outcome, such as cardiovascular disease (CVD) and inflammation, may also cause malnutrition. Among laboratory parameters used to assess nutritional status, serum albumin appears to be a particularly strong predictor of morbidity and mortality. This study assessed the importance of nutritional status and inflammation and other comorbidity factors as predictors of mortality in HD patients. Nutritional status was evaluated in 128 HD patients by subjective global nutritional assessment (SGNA) and by measuring several anthropometric markers (actual body weight, percentage of actual body weight to desirable body weight, midarm muscle circumferences, triceps skinfold thickness), and serum albumin, plasma insulin such as insulin growth factor-1 and as a marker of inflammation, serum C-reactive protein (s-CRP) levels. The mortality during the next 36 mo was analyzed in relation to age, gender, CVD, SGNA, serum albumin, CRP, and several other factors by Kaplan-Meier analysis multivariate. Cox proportional hazard analysis was used to identify independent predictors of mortality. After 36 mo, 58 patients were still on HD treatment, 57 patients (45%) had died while receiving treatment, and 13 had received a kidney transplant. The main cause of death was CVD (58%), followed by infection (18%); malnutrition/cachexia was a rare direct cause of death (5%). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that age, female gender, CVD, diabetes, SGNA, all anthropometric parameters, serum albumin, plasma insulinlike growth factor-1, and s-CRP were significant predictors of mortality. Analysis by the Cox model showed that age, gender, CVD, nutritional status (SGNA), and CRP were independent predictors of mortality at 36 mo. A low albumin level was not an independent predictor, although it was strongly associated with a reduced survival rate in the Kaplan-Meier analysis. Inflammation, malnutrition, and CVD appeared to contribute to increased mortality in a stepwise manner. The mortality at 36 mo was 0% when none of these complications was present, whereas the mortality was 75% in those patients with all three risk factors present at baseline. It is concluded that in addition to malnutrition and comorbidities (CVD, diabetes mellitus), inflammation (elevated s-CRP) is a significant independent risk factor for mortality in HD patients. Inflammation, malnutrition, and CVD appear to be interrelated, each additionally contributing to the high mortality in these patients.