[Effects of alpha-ketoacids therapy on protein metabolism and secondary hyperparathyroidism in predialysis patients]

The effects of alpha-ketoacids (alpha-KA) on azotemia, plasma amino acids concentrations, nitrogen balance, serum Ca, PO4 and iPTH levels in 22 predialysis patients were investigated. The results showed that BUN and serum phosphate levels decreased significantly, plasma essential amino acids levels, nitrogen balance and serum calcium levels were improved after 6-8 weeks of alpha-KA therapy. The serum iPTH levels were reduced markedly three months after alpha-KA treatment and maintained lower ten months later.