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Serum Creatinine Levels (serum + creatinine_level)
Kinds of Serum Creatinine Levels Selected AbstractsAdefovir dipivoxil therapy in liver transplant recipients for recurrence of hepatitis B virus infection despite lamivudine plus hepatitis B immunoglobulin prophylaxisJOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY, Issue 12 2007Murat Akyildiz Abstract Background:, Treatment of post-transplantation recurrence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection despite prophylaxis with hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) and lamivudine combination therapy is not easy. Because HBV reinfection has a severe course and could result in graft failure in liver transplant recipients, prompt medication is essential. Herein is reported the authors' experience with adefovir dipivoxil (AD) therapy in 11 liver transplant recipients who had HBV reinfection despite the administration of lamivudine and HBIG. Method:, Two-hundred and nine patients underwent liver transplantation (100 deceased donor liver transplantations [DDLT], 109 living donor liver transplantation [LDLT]) due to chronic hepatitis B infection between April 1997 and May 2005 in Ege University Medical School, Liver Transplantation Unit. Patients had prophylaxis with lamivudine and low-dose HBIG combination after liver transplantation. Treatment of recurrence consisted of AD 10 mg once a day and lamivudine 300 mg/daily and HBIG was discontinued in those patients. Results:, In total there were 11 HBV recurrences: five occurred in DDLT recipients and six in LDLT recipients, at a median follow up of 18 months (range, 6,48 months). In one of 11 patients, pretransplant HBV-DNA and HBeAg were positive. Three patients had a severe course and one patient had fibrosing cholestatic hepatitis. After AD treatment, HBV-DNA level decreased in all patients and became negative in seven patients. Two patients died due to hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence after 12 and 14 months of follow up. Serum creatinine level increased mildly in one patient and no other side-effect was observed, and all patients continued therapy. Conclusion:, Adefovir dipivoxil is a safe, effective treatment option for post-transplant HBV recurrence even among patients with fibrosing cholestatic hepatitis caused by lamivudine-resistant HBV. [source] Attenuation of reperfusion injury by renal ischaemic preconditioning: the role of nitric oxideBJU INTERNATIONAL, Issue 9 2000M.K. Jefayri Objective To determine the effect on nitric oxide (NO) release and renal NO synthase (endothelial, eNOS and inducible, iNOS) activity of renal ischaemia-reperfusion (I/R) in vivo in an animal model, and to examine the possible involvement of NO in ischaemic preconditioning (IP) of the kidney. Materials and methods In a right-nephrectomized rat model, 42 animals were randomized in four groups: controls; IP-only (4 min of ischaemia followed by 11 min of reperfusion, total of four cycles); renal warm ischaemia (45 min) and 6 h reperfusion; ischaemia (45 min) preceded by IP pretreatment. Serum NO metabolites were assayed 2 and 6 h after ischaemia or the control equivalent. NOS expression in the kidney was detected immuno-histochemically, and damage assessed morphologically in sections stained with haematoxylin and eosin. Kidney function was assessed by the levels of serum creatinine, urea and electrolytes. Results Compared with before ischaemia, the concentration of serum NO metabolites at 6 h was increased in the IP-only animals (P = 0.016) and in the IP + I/R group (P = 0.002). There was greater eNOS expression in the IP-only group (P = 0.009) and in the IP + I/R group than in controls (P = 0.050). iNOS expression was greater in the IP-only animals than in the control group (P = 0.050). Histological assessment showed less evidence of cellular damage in IP + I/R animals than in the I/R-alone group (P = 0.020). Serum creatinine level was not significantly different between the IP-only group and the control. There were no differences after 2 h of reperfusion. Conclusion Ischaemic preconditioning has a protective effect on renal structure and function, which may be produced by increased NO release arising from increased NOS expression by 6 h after reperfusion. [source] Monitoring of renal function in patients with spinal cord injuryBJU INTERNATIONAL, Issue 9 2000S.A. Macdiarmid Objective To assess the sensitivity of serum creatinine level in detecting clinically important and early deterioration of renal function in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI), and to evaluate the optimal method of determining creatinine clearance in these patients. Patients and methods The serum creatinine level of 36 patients (25 paraplegics and 11 quadriplegics) was evaluated and compared with the corresponding measured creatinine clearance rate. Correlations were also assessed between the creatinine clearance measured by 24-h endogenous clearance, single-shot 99mTc-labelled diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (99mTc-DTPA) clearance technique, and the Cockcroft,Gault formula, to test their validity. Results Of the 36 patients 11 (31%) had a measured creatinine clearance of < 100 mL/min (mean 84.8) and a corresponding normal serum creatinine level. Creatinine clearance calculated by the Cockcroft,Gault formula did not correlate well with that measured by the 24-h endogenous clearance (r = 0.426) and 99mTc-DTPA clearance (r = 0.366), overestimating creatinine clearance in all but three patients. The mean (sd) difference between the creatinine clearance measured by the 24-h and DTPA clearance technique was 17.7 (16.5)% and the correlation between these techniques was good (r = 0.71). Conclusion Serum creatinine level is not sensitive in detecting early deterioration of renal function in patients with SCI. The Cockcroft,Gault formula generally significantly overestimates the true creatinine clearance and is not recommended. The 24-h endogenous creatinine clearance measured on appropriately collected urine samples is an acceptable accurate and practical method of determining glomerular filtration rate in patients with SCI. [source] Conversion to Sirolimus in Renal Transplant Recipients: A Single-Center ExperienceARTIFICIAL ORGANS, Issue 8 2010Berna Yelken Abstract Maintenance immunosuppression with calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) following renal transplantation is associated with nephrotoxicity and accelerated graft loss. Sirolimus (SRL) is a nonnephrotoxic immunosuppressive agent. We retrospectively analyzed our experience with kidney transplant recipients who were converted from CNI to SRL. A total of 58 renal transplant recipients were converted from CNI to SRL. SRL was started at a dose of 0.075 mg/kg and, at the same time, CNI dose was reduced by 50% daily for 3 days. SRL trough levels were targeted between 8 and 12 ng/mL. When target trough levels were achieved, CNI was withdrawn. The main indications for switching were posttransplant malignancies (n = 32) and chronic allograft nephropathy (CAN) (n = 10). The mean time from transplantation to conversion was 84 ± 71 months. Mean serum creatinine level was 1.63 ± 0.52 mg/dL before conversion. Serum creatinine levels at the 1, 3, 6 months, and 1, 2, 3 years after conversion were 1.64 ± 0.58 mg/dL (P = 0.67), 1.52 ± 0.53 mg/dL (P = 0.414), 1.62 ± 0.62 mg/dL (P = 0.734), and 1.48 ± 0.58 mg/dL (P = 0.065), 1.58 ± 0.53 mg/dL (P = 0.854), 1.88 ± 0.77 mg/dL (P = 0.083), respectively. Daily proteinuria levels increased from 0.04 ± 0.11 g/day at baseline to 0.55 ± 1.33 g/day (P = 0.037) after conversion, in the responders group. In the nonresponders group, baseline proteinuria was 0.13 ± 0.25 g/day, and increased to 1.44 ± 2.44 g/day after conversion (P = 0.008). SRL was discontinued in 16 patients (31%) because of the occurrence of severe side effects. The proportion of patients remaining on SRL therapy over time was 43.1% at 1 year, 15.5% at 2 years after conversion, and 10.3% at 3 years after conversion. SRL conversion may be very useful in patients suffering from neoplasia; however, frequent side effects related with this intervention should be considered, and routine conversion from CNI to SRL to reduce nephrotoxicity should be discouraged. [source] Terlipressin therapy with and without albumin for patients with hepatorenal syndrome: Results of a prospective, nonrandomized studyHEPATOLOGY, Issue 4 2002Rolando Ortega Vasopressin analogues associated with albumin improve renal function in hepatorenal syndrome (HRS). The current study was aimed at assessing the efficacy of the treatment, predictive factors of response, recurrence of HRS, and survival after therapy. Twenty-one consecutive patients with HRS (16 with type 1 HRS, 5 with type 2 HRS) received terlipressin (0.5-2 mg/4 hours intravenously) until complete response was achieved (serum creatinine level < 1.5 mg/dL) or for 15 days; 13 patients received intravenous albumin together with terlipressin. Twelve of the 21 patients (57%) showed complete response. Albumin administration was the only predictive factor of complete response (77% in patients receiving terlipressin and albumin vs. 25% in those receiving terlipressin alone, P = .03). Treatment with terlipressin and albumin was associated with a remarkable decrease in serum creatinine level, increase in arterial pressure, and suppression of the renin-aldosterone system. By contrast, no significant changes in these parameters were found in patients treated with terlipressin alone. Only 1 patient showed ischemic adverse effects. Recurrence of HRS occurred in 17% of patients with complete response. The occurrence of complete response was associated with an improved survival. In conclusion, terlipressin therapy reverses HRS in a high proportion of patients. Recurrence rate after treatment withdrawal is uncommon. Albumin appears to improve markedly the beneficial effects of terlipressin. [source] Does prolonged systemic glucocorticoid use increase risk of tophus formation among gouty arthritis patients?INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RHEUMATIC DISEASES, Issue 3 2009Anne-Annette P. RASO Abstract Aim:, To determine the relationship of steroid use with tophus formation and other comorbid conditions among male gout patients. Methods:, Review of medical records of Filipino gout patients under the care of rheumatologists was conducted. Univariate analysis (chi-square, Student's t -test) and multiple logistic regression analysis were performed to establish the risk for tophus formation among glucocorticoid users. Bivariate analysis was separately done to determine the confounding effect of steroid use in the association of comorbidities and tophi formation. Results:, There were 295 Filipino men with a mean age of 56 years and a mean duration of 12 years of gouty arthritis who were included in the study. Multivariate analysis showed a five times higher likelihood (OR 4.81 95% CI 1.92,12.04, P < 0.001) for tophus formation among prolonged steroid users. Confounders identified were disease duration of gout (, 10 years), presence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and elevated serum creatinine level (SCr). Bivariate analysis of comorbidities showed that steroid use introduced a considerable bias in the relationship of hypertension, elevated SCr, CKD and dyslipidemia. Conclusion:, Patients with equivalent prednisone intake of at least 15 mg/week for , 3 months is associated with tophi formation. In the presence of hypertension, renal impairment, and elevated serum creatinine level, use of steroids confounds the individual risk that each factor carries. [source] Prevalence of hypouricaemia and SLC22A12 mutations in healthy Korean subjectsNEPHROLOGY, Issue 8 2008JOO HOON LEE SUMMARY: Aim: Mutations in the SLC22A12 gene, which encodes a uric acid transporter, URAT1, are associated with renal hypouricaemia. This study was designed to measure serum uric acid (Sua) levels and allele frequencies of two common mutations in SLC22A12, W258X and R90H, in healthy Korean subjects. Methods: A total of 909 unrelated Korean adults (male : female, 1:1.23; mean age, 48.4 ± 11.0 years) were recruited among those who had taken a routine health check-up in a health centre in 2003. None of them had hypertension, diabetes mellitus, kidney diseases or liver diseases. Genotyping for W258X and R90H was performed using the TaqMan method. Results: The prevalences of hyperuricaemia (Sua levels, >416 µmol/L) and hypouricaemia (Sua levels, <178 µmol/L) were 4.6% and 3.3%, respectively. A marked male preponderance in the hyperuricaemic group was noted, and the men revealed higher Sua than the women. The Sua showed a positive correlation with serum creatinine level and blood pressure. In the hypouricaemic group, the allele frequencies of W258X and R90H were 11.7% and 6.7%, respectively, and the proportion of subjects with one or both of the mutant alleles was 33.3%. Hyperuricaemic subjects never had either mutation. Conclusion: The W258X and/or R90H mutations in the SLC22A12 gene are one of the major factors responsible for hypouricaemia, and one-third of the hypouricaemic subjects had one or both of the mutant alleles. [source] A Clinical Risk Score to Predict the Time to First Appropriate Device Therapy in Recipients of Implantable Cardioverter DefibrillatorsPACING AND CLINICAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 3 2007HAITHAM HREYBE M.D. Background:To develop a risk score to predict the occurrence of appropriate defibrillator [implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD)] therapies. A simple clinical score predicting the risk of appropriate ICD therapy is lacking. Methods:A Cox regression model was developed from a database of ICD patients at a single tertiary center to predict the time to appropriate ICD therapy defined as shock or antitachycardia pacing. A risk score was derived from this model using half of the database and was validated using the other half. Results:A total of 399 patients were entered into the database between July 2001 and February 2004. There were no statistically significant differences between the derivation (n = 200) and validation (n = 199) groups in any of the demographic or clinical variables recorded. The risk score included three independent variables: indication for ICD implantation (P = 0.03), serum creatinine level (P = 0.015), and QRS width (P = 0.028). The observed risk scores were highly predictive of time to ICD therapy in the validation group (P = 0.02). Conclusion:We describe a new clinical risk score that predicts the time to appropriate device therapy in ICD recipients of a single tertiary center hospital. The performance of this risk score needs to be investigated prospectively in a larger patient population. [source] Cyclosporine drug monitoring with C0 and C2 concentrations in children with stable renal allograft functionPEDIATRIC TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 2 2006Mukaddes Kalyoncu Abstract:, Cyclosporin A (CsA) has a narrow therapeutic window and necessitates monitoring of blood concentration. We aimed to evaluate trough (C0) and second hour (C2) level after ingestion of drug monitoring in renal allograft recipients. In this retrospective study, 12 children eight boys and four girls; mean age at transplantation 14.6 ± 3.7 yr (ranges: 7.0,19.0), mean age post-transtplant 17.8 ± 4.9 yr (ranges: 9.0,24.0) who were transplanted >6 months were enrolled in this evaluation. Ten were recipients of a living related donor and two deceased donor grafts. While six children were receiving CsA, steroids and azathioprine, the other six received CsA, steroids and mycophenolate mofetil. Clinical course, blood pressure, renal and liver function tests were recorded. Mean C0 and C2 were 96.2 ± 59.5 and 504 ± 305.4 ng/mL respectively. Mean serum creatinine level was 1.2 ± 0.45 mg/dL and mean creatinine clearance (CrCl) was 89.2 ± 36.8 mL/min/1.73 m2. There was a correlation between serum creatinine level, CsA dose and C2 levels,whereas,there was no correlation between age, blood pressure, CrCl and C2 levels. However, no correlation was found between C0 levels and any of the above parameters. In conclusion, our data suggest that C2 levels are correlated better with dose and serum creatinine level. [source] The safety and efficacy of a JAK inhibitor in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis: Results of a double-blind, placebo-controlled phase IIa trial of three dosage levels of CP-690,550 versus placebo,,ARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 7 2009Joel M. Kremer Objective To determine the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of 3 different dosages of CP-690,550, a potent, orally active JAK inhibitor, in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in whom methotrexate, etanercept, infliximab, or adalimumab caused an inadequate or toxic response. Methods Patients (n = 264) were randomized equally to receive placebo, 5 mg of CP-690,550, 15 mg of CP-690,550, or 30 mg of CP-690,550 twice daily for 6 weeks, and were followed up for an additional 6 weeks after treatment. The primary efficacy end point was the American College of Rheumatology 20% improvement criteria (ACR20) response rate at 6 weeks. Results By week 6, the ACR20 response rates were 70.5%, 81.2%, and 76.8% in the 5 mg, 15 mg, and 30 mg twice daily groups, respectively, compared with 29.2% in the placebo group (P < 0.001). Improvements in disease activity in CP-690,550,treated patients compared with placebo were seen in all treatment groups as early as week 1. ACR50 and ACR70 response rates significantly improved in all treatment groups by week 4. The most common adverse events reported were headache and nausea. The infection rate in both the 15 mg twice daily group and the 30 mg twice daily group was 30.4% (versus 26.2% in the placebo group). No opportunistic infections or deaths occurred. Increases in mean low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, and increases in mean serum creatinine level (0.04,0.06 mg/dl) were seen in all CP-690,550 treatment arms. Conclusion Our findings indicate that CP-690,550 is efficacious in the treatment of RA, resulting in rapid, statistically significant, and clinically meaningful reductions in the signs and symptoms of RA. Further studies of CP-690,550 in RA are warranted. [source] Efficacy and safety of tacrolimus in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A double-blind trialARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 12 2003David E. Yocum Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of tacrolimus as monotherapy in controlling the signs and symptoms of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods This was a 6-month, phase III, double-blind, multicenter study. Patients with active RA who had discontinued all disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for an appropriate washout period (at least 1 month) and who, after the washout period, had a stable joint count (at least 10 tender/painful joints and 7 swollen joints) were stratified according to DMARD intolerance or DMARD resistance, and randomized to receive a single daily oral dose of placebo, tacrolimus 2 mg, or tacrolimus 3 mg. Results A total of 464 patients received at least 1 dose of study drug. Baseline characteristics were similar among the 3 treatment groups. American College of Rheumatology 20% improvement (ACR20) success (defined as completion of 6 months of treatment and an ACR20 response at the month 6 visit) for the placebo, tacrolimus 2 mg, and tacrolimus 3 mg groups was 10.2%, 18.8% (P < 0.05 versus placebo), and 26.8% (P < 0.0005 versus placebo), respectively. At the end of treatment, the ACR20 and ACR50 response rates in the 3-mg group were 32.0% (P < 0.005 versus placebo) and 11.8% (P < 0.05 versus placebo), respectively. DMARD-intolerant patients had better ACR response rates than did DMARD-resistant patients. Although serum creatinine levels increased by ,40% from baseline at some time during the trial in 20% and 29% of patients receiving tacrolimus 2 mg/day and 3 mg/day, respectively, the serum creatinine level remained within the normal range throughout the trial in ,90% of patients. Conclusion Tacrolimus, at dosages of both 2 mg/day and 3 mg/day, is efficacious and safe as monotherapy for patients with active RA, but treatment with the 3-mg dose of tacrolimus resulted in generally better ACR response rates. [source] Conversion to Sirolimus in Renal Transplant Recipients: A Single-Center ExperienceARTIFICIAL ORGANS, Issue 8 2010Berna Yelken Abstract Maintenance immunosuppression with calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) following renal transplantation is associated with nephrotoxicity and accelerated graft loss. Sirolimus (SRL) is a nonnephrotoxic immunosuppressive agent. We retrospectively analyzed our experience with kidney transplant recipients who were converted from CNI to SRL. A total of 58 renal transplant recipients were converted from CNI to SRL. SRL was started at a dose of 0.075 mg/kg and, at the same time, CNI dose was reduced by 50% daily for 3 days. SRL trough levels were targeted between 8 and 12 ng/mL. When target trough levels were achieved, CNI was withdrawn. The main indications for switching were posttransplant malignancies (n = 32) and chronic allograft nephropathy (CAN) (n = 10). The mean time from transplantation to conversion was 84 ± 71 months. Mean serum creatinine level was 1.63 ± 0.52 mg/dL before conversion. Serum creatinine levels at the 1, 3, 6 months, and 1, 2, 3 years after conversion were 1.64 ± 0.58 mg/dL (P = 0.67), 1.52 ± 0.53 mg/dL (P = 0.414), 1.62 ± 0.62 mg/dL (P = 0.734), and 1.48 ± 0.58 mg/dL (P = 0.065), 1.58 ± 0.53 mg/dL (P = 0.854), 1.88 ± 0.77 mg/dL (P = 0.083), respectively. Daily proteinuria levels increased from 0.04 ± 0.11 g/day at baseline to 0.55 ± 1.33 g/day (P = 0.037) after conversion, in the responders group. In the nonresponders group, baseline proteinuria was 0.13 ± 0.25 g/day, and increased to 1.44 ± 2.44 g/day after conversion (P = 0.008). SRL was discontinued in 16 patients (31%) because of the occurrence of severe side effects. The proportion of patients remaining on SRL therapy over time was 43.1% at 1 year, 15.5% at 2 years after conversion, and 10.3% at 3 years after conversion. SRL conversion may be very useful in patients suffering from neoplasia; however, frequent side effects related with this intervention should be considered, and routine conversion from CNI to SRL to reduce nephrotoxicity should be discouraged. [source] The Boari bladder flap: an effective continent stoma for the high-compliance neurogenic bladderBJU INTERNATIONAL, Issue 9 2010Egbert Baumgart Study Type , Therapy (case series) Level of Evidence 4 OBJECTIVE To determine if a continent urinary stoma can be created effectively using a Boari bladder flap (BBF) technique. PATIENTS AND METHODS Selected patients (15, eight women and seven men) with a neurogenic bladder and a bladder compliance of >20 mL/cmH2O had a procedure to create a BBF continent urinary stoma. The technique consisted of tubularising a trapezoidal, full-thickness detrusor flap 10 cm long, 5,6 cm wide at the base and 2 cm at the tip, over a 12 F catheter, and plication of detrusor muscle around the stomal base. Outcomes after surgery were assessed by reviewing stomal continence, stomal patency, and stability of the upper urinary tract. RESULTS Ten BBF procedures were performed using native detrusor muscle, four with enterocystoplasty tissue and one in a defunctionalized bladder. Over a mean follow-up of 13 months, 11 patients had functioning stomas and 10 of these reported complete stomal continence. The mean change in serum creatinine level from the preoperative baseline for all patients was 0.1 mg/dL. The odds ratio for procedural failure, defined as a stoma unusable for self-catheterization, was 7.5 (P = 0.04) when the BBF was created from augmented or defunctionalized bladder tissue, compared to native high-compliance detrusor. CONCLUSION A BBF can be used to create a viable, functional stoma in the high-compliance neurogenic bladder, although the rate of stomal complications is high when the BBF is created from enterocystoplasty tissue. [source] Erythropoietin administration protects against functional impairment and cell death after ischaemic renal injury in pigsBJU INTERNATIONAL, Issue 1 2007COLIN J. FORMAN OBJECTIVE To determine whether the administration of erythropoietin at the time of ischaemic renal injury (IRI) inhibits apoptosis, enhances tubular epithelial regeneration and promotes renal functional recovery, as it does in rodent models, in a higher mammalian model. MATERIALS AND METHODS The model of IRI involved unilateral nephrectomy in pigs, followed a week later by renal artery occlusion for 1 h, followed by reperfusion for 5 days. Pigs were randomized to receive erythropoietin 5000 units/kg intravenously at the time of ischaemia, followed by 1000 units/kg subcutaneously daily, or no treatment (six pigs each). Renal function and structure were analysed; blood and urine were collected daily to determine serum creatinine level, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine clearance. Animals were killed after 5 days to obtain the injured kidneys. The kidneys were examined histologically for evidence of cellular mitosis, apoptosis and necrosis. RESULTS Erythropoietin significantly abrogated renal dysfunction after IRI compared with controls at 12 h after injury; the mean (sem) creatinine clearance (as a percentage of baseline) for IRI was 68.2 (6)% vs erythropoietin-IRI 94.9 (8.9)% (P = 0.027), although by 36 h this was no longer significant, with values of 73.8 (12.7)% vs 95.9 (12)%, respectively (P = 0.23). Erythropoietin also significantly reduced the amount of cell death on histological analysis after 5 days of reperfusion, with a median (range) for IRI of 5.5 (1,45) vs erythropoietin-IRI of 1.5 (0,4) (P = 0.043). CONCLUSION This study confirms the potential clinical applications of erythropoietin as a novel therapeutic agent in patients at risk of IRI. [source] Monitoring of renal function in patients with spinal cord injuryBJU INTERNATIONAL, Issue 9 2000S.A. Macdiarmid Objective To assess the sensitivity of serum creatinine level in detecting clinically important and early deterioration of renal function in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI), and to evaluate the optimal method of determining creatinine clearance in these patients. Patients and methods The serum creatinine level of 36 patients (25 paraplegics and 11 quadriplegics) was evaluated and compared with the corresponding measured creatinine clearance rate. Correlations were also assessed between the creatinine clearance measured by 24-h endogenous clearance, single-shot 99mTc-labelled diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (99mTc-DTPA) clearance technique, and the Cockcroft,Gault formula, to test their validity. Results Of the 36 patients 11 (31%) had a measured creatinine clearance of < 100 mL/min (mean 84.8) and a corresponding normal serum creatinine level. Creatinine clearance calculated by the Cockcroft,Gault formula did not correlate well with that measured by the 24-h endogenous clearance (r = 0.426) and 99mTc-DTPA clearance (r = 0.366), overestimating creatinine clearance in all but three patients. The mean (sd) difference between the creatinine clearance measured by the 24-h and DTPA clearance technique was 17.7 (16.5)% and the correlation between these techniques was good (r = 0.71). Conclusion Serum creatinine level is not sensitive in detecting early deterioration of renal function in patients with SCI. The Cockcroft,Gault formula generally significantly overestimates the true creatinine clearance and is not recommended. The 24-h endogenous creatinine clearance measured on appropriately collected urine samples is an acceptable accurate and practical method of determining glomerular filtration rate in patients with SCI. [source] Renal dysfunction and prolonged visceral ischaemia increase mortality rate after suprarenal aneurysm repair,BRITISH JOURNAL OF SURGERY (NOW INCLUDES EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SURGERY), Issue 9 2003C. D. Bicknell Background: Elective juxtarenal abdominal aneurysm repair has a significantly lower mortality rate than suprarenal repair. Identification of factors affecting outcome may lead to a reduction in mortality rate for suprarenal repair. Methods: Data were collected prospectively between 1993 and 2000 for 130 patients who underwent type IV thoracoabdominal aneurysm (TAA) repair and 44 patients who had juxtarenal aneurysm (JRA) repair. Preoperative risk factors and operative details were compared between groups and related to outcome after TAA repair (there were only two deaths in the JRA group). Results: The in-hospital mortality rate was significantly higher following TAA repair (20·0 per cent; 26 of 130 patients) than JRA repair (4·5 per cent; two of 44). Raised serum creatinine concentration was the only preoperative factor (P = 0·013) and visceral ischaemia the only significant operative factor (P = 0·001) that affected mortality after TAA repair. Conclusion: JRA repair was performed with similar risks to those of infrarenal aneurysm repair. Impaired preoperative renal function was related to death following TAA repair and conservative treatment should be considered for patients with a serum creatinine level above 180 µmol/l. Reducing the duration of visceral ischaemia might improve outcome. Copyright © 2003 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] A direct association of polyomavirus BK viruria with deterioration of renal allograft function in renal transplant patientsCLINICAL TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 4 2009Yi-Jung Li Abstract:,Background:, Polyomavirus BK virus (BKV) causes a BKV-associated nephropathy (BKVAN), frequently causing allograft dysfunction in renal transplant recipients. As BK viruria is a surrogate marker for early detection of BKVAN, the aim of this study was to clarify an association between BK viruria and allograft dysfunction in renal transplant recipients. Methods:, One hundred and six renal transplant recipients with average 5.9-yr transplant duration received screening for quantification of BK viruria detected by real time polymerase chain reaction and were followed up for 12 months. Results:, Twenty-six patients (25%) had detectable BK viruria. In comparison of the patients without BK viruria, more patients in the BK viruria group were treated with steroids and had a past history of acute rejection. There was no difference in sex, age, transplant duration, allograft type and previous cytomegalovirus infection. During follow-up, the patients with BK viruria had higher serum creatinine levels at the sixth, ninth and 12th month. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that BK viruria was the only risk factor for more than 25% or 50% rise of serum creatinine level above baseline at the end of one yr follow-up. Conclusions:, BK viruria alone is associated with allograft dysfunction and early intervention is indicated. [source] Successful rescue and maintenance of long-term remission of anti-HLA antibody-mediated acute allograft rejection by rituximab-containing therapy: case reportCLINICAL TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 2008Yasuo Takeuchi Abstract:, A 38-yr-old man with chronic renal failure received a second kidney transplantation from a cadaveric donor. Complement-dependent cytotoxicity cross-match (CDC) was negative against T cells, but positive with the B-cell warm test. Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-typing showed a one haplo-identical match. The blood type was compatible. He was treated with tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), methylpredonisolone (MP), and basiliximab as immunosuppressive therapy. A clinical episode graft biopsy and Flow-PRA on post-operative day (POD) 19 showed anti-HLA antibody-mediated acute rejection (AHR). The patient was treated with plasmapheresis (PP). Renal biopsy performed on POD 65 because of re-rise of serum creatinine level showed worsening of renal injury. The patient was treated with rituximab (100 mg/body) with PP and MP pulse therapy, followed by tacrolimus and MMF. Graft function thereafter improved. A renal allograft biopsy specimen on POD 300 and Flow-PRA showed the remission of AHR within one-yr after transplantation. [source] A case of acute vascular rejection after overseas deceased kidney transplantationCLINICAL TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 2007Tomokazu Shimizu Abstract:, A 54-yr-old Japanese male received overseas deceased kidney transplantation in January 2006. His allograft functioned immediately and he received immunosuppression with cyclosporine A (CyA), mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), and prednisone (PR). On day 24 after transplantation, he came back to Japan. His serum creatinine level (s-Cr) was 1.39 mg/dL at two months after transplantation when he was admitted into Toda Central General Hospital on March 2006, for follow-up his renal allograft. He had taken only two immunosuppressive drugs, MMF and PR, and had not taken CyA at that time. His serum creatinine gradually rose after hospitalization. Allograft biopsy performed on April 6, 2006, showed acute vascular rejection (Banff 97 acute/active cellular rejection Grade III), together with suspicious for acute humoral rejection (Banff 97 antibody-mediated rejection Grade II). After treatment of two courses of steroid pulses and five d of gusperimus, acute vascular rejection and acute humoral rejection were relieved, which had been proven by the third allograft biopsy. In conclusion, this was a case of acute vascular rejection after overseas deceased kidney transplantation, resulted from non-compliance with immunosuppressive therapy. [source] Excellent clinical outcomes in primary kidney transplant recipients treated with steroid-free maintenance immunosuppressionCLINICAL TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 5 2006Amer Rajab Abstract:, Steroid-free maintenance immunosuppression is desirable to eliminate the side effects of chronic corticosteroid use. Complete steroid avoidance or rapid post-transplant steroid withdrawal has recently been used in renal transplant recipients with encouraging results. The present study evaluated the outcome of a steroid-free maintenance immunosuppressive protocol in kidney transplant recipients with at least one-yr follow up. Between April 2002 and October 2004, a total of 301 primary kidney transplant recipients received steroid-free maintenance immunosuppression. The regimen consisted of induction with thymogobulin and prednisone for the first five d. Patients were maintained on Sirolimus and Neoral. Neoral dose was adjusted to target C2 levels and the Sirolimus dose was adjusted to a target rapamycin trough level. All primary kidney transplants (n = 502) performed in the two yr (starting January 2000) prior to institution of the steroid-free regimen and thus maintained on a steroid-based immunosuppressive protocol were used for comparison. One-year patient and death censored graft survival were 93.1% and 98.1% for the steroid-free group vs. 95.2% and 95.2% for the comparator groups (p = ns). The incidence of biopsy-proven acute rejection was 4.9% in the steroid-free group vs. 9.4% in the comparator group (p < 0.01). Two (0.7%) of 301 patients in the steroid-free group lost their grafts because of acute rejection compared with nine (1.8%) patients in the comparator group (p < 0.05). At one-yr post-transplant the mean serum creatinine level was not different between the two groups. There were no significant differences in mean serum cholesterol and triglycerides levels as well as the percentage of patients on lipid lowering agents between the groups. White blood cell counts, daily doses of Neoral and weight gain were significantly lower in the steroid-free group vs. the comparator group. However, more patients in the steroid-free group required erythropoietin and iron therapy for anemia (p < 0.001). We conclude that excellent graft survival with a significantly lower incidence of acute rejection can be achieved using a steroid-free maintenance immunosuppressive protocol consisting of Neoral and Sirolimus. [source] Pyogenic liver abscesses: a comparison of older and younger patientsHPB, Issue 3 2001JA Alvarez Background Pyogenic liver abscess is a life-threatening disease. Few studies have specifically explored the way in which the clinical features and management of elderly patients with pyogenic liver abscess differ from those of younger individuals. Methods A retrospective study was undertaken to evaluate whether older patients with pyogenic liver abscess have distinctive presenting features or whether their management and outcome differ from that of younger patients. A total of 133 patients with liver abscess treated in five hospitals during 13 years comprised two groups: 78 patients aged 60 years or above (older group) and 55 patients below age 60 years (younger group). Clinical features, laboratory data, imaging and microbiological findings, management and outcome were determined in each group. Results The older group contained more patients with associated diseases (p = 0.03), nausea and vomiting at presentation (p = 0.02), higher APACHE II (Acute Physiological and Chronic Health Evaluation II scale) score (p < 0.001) and blood urea nitrogen (p < 0.001) and serum creatinine levels (p = 0.002). Multiple abscess (p = 0.05) and bilobar (p = 0.03) abscess were also commoner in this group. By contrast, in the younger group men predominated (p = 0.01), and there was a higher overall complication rate (p = 0.05). Time to diagnosis, hospital mortality rate and other variables analysed were similar in both groups. Discussion Elderly patients with pyogenic liver abscess have some subtle differences in clinical and laboratory presentation, but these do not appear to delay diagnosis. Active management is tolerated well, with a lower morbidity rate than in younger patients and no difference in the mortality rate. [source] BK virus nephropathy: Clinical experience in a university hospital in JapanINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 12 2009Tatsuya Takayama Objectives: To review the medical records of patients with BK virus nephropathy (BKVN) following kidney transplantation in our institution. Methods: We screened patients for decoy cells using urine cytology, assessed serum creatinine levels, and conducted a graft biopsy, as well as assessed the presence of plasma BK virus DNA by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The treatment of BKVN was based on the decreased use of immunosuppressants. Results: Overall, six male patients were studied (mean age 40.8 years, range 18,58; mean donor age 45.2 years, range 15,67). A positive urine cytology screen led to the subsequent detection of plasma BK virus DNA in the five patients with urine cytology results positive for decoy cells. In the four patients in whom plasma BK virus DNA was detected, a maximum value of DNA of ,10 000 copies/mL was observed. Time elapsed from transplantation to BKVN diagnosis ranged from 3 to 62 months. Although the two cadaver grafts were lost, the loss was not due to any effects directly associated with BKVN. The other four grafts are still functioning with a mean creatinine level of 1.8 mg/dL. Most of the patients with BKVN were regarded as being in a state of heightened immunosuppression. BK virus transition to blood was prevented in one patient. Conclusions: Early diagnosis of BKV infection with reduction of immunosuppression may potentially counter BK viremia and retard progression of BKV nephropathy. Decoy cell screening by urine cytology as well as plasma BK virus DNA screening should be considered in addition to the required graft biopsy in kidney transplant recipients, particularly in those with impaired graft function. [source] Therapeutic effects of long-term administration of an oral adsorbent in patients with chronic renal failure: two-year studyINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 1 2005NOBUYOSHI TAKAHASHI Abstract Background:, Kremezin is an oral adsorbent that attenuates the progression of chronic renal failure by removing uremic toxins and their precursors from the gastrointestinal tract. Previously two clinical studies based on reciprocal serum creatinine levels (1/Scr) have confirmed the efficacy of Kremezin (Kureha Chemical, Tokyo, Japan) in undialyzed patients who had been followed up for 6 months or 1 year. This is the first report to evaluate the therapeutic effects of long-term administration (2 years.) of Kremezin in undialyzed patients. Methods:, Kremezin was given to 48 enrolled undialyzed patients with a median Scr level of 4.3 mg/dL. Rates of decline of 1/Scr, as well as the time for Scr level to reach 10 mg/dL, the critical value requiring dialysis, were compared before and after administration of Kremezin. Results:, During the 2-year therapeutic period, 1/Scr gradients were significantly attenuated (P = 0.0083), and the estimated time to dialysis was prolonged from 16.3 ± 16.3 months to 29.8 ± 24.1 months (P = 0.002). When the patients were divided into two groups, based on of systolic blood pressure (SBP), defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) classification, a significantly smaller number of patients in the low blood pressure group (SBP < 160 mmHg) were introduced to dialysis (P = 0.0005), and the estimated time to dialysis was significantly extended in the low blood pressure group (P = 0.0125). Conclusion:, In addition to the control of blood pressure in undialyzed patients, Kremezin has additive salutary effects to halt the progressive loss of renal function, resulting in the delay of dialysis. [source] Clinical, urodynamic and endoscopic characteristics of the Stanford pouch ileal neobladder constructed with absorbable staplesINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 12 2000M Cemil Uygur Abstract Purpose The clinical, urodynamic and endoscopic aspects of the Stanford pouch ileal neobladder formed with absorbable staples were investigated. Methods A Stanford pouch ileal neobladder was formed using absorbable staples after radical cystoprostatectomy in 30 male patients with the diagnosis of muscle invasive carcinoma of the bladder between 1995 and 1998. The mean age of the patients was 62 (range 41,70) years. Patients were followed with arterial blood gas, serum biochemistry, pouch cystography, urodynamic tests and endoscopy. Results Five (16.7%) patients had early postoperative complications and three were related to the neobladder. One year postoperatively, low grade (I, II) vesicoureteral reflux was present in five (16.7%) cases. The mean preoperative and 6 months postoperative serum creatinine levels were 1.07 ± 0.3 mg/dL and 1.2 ± 0.4 mg/dL, respectively, but the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.1). Six months postoperatively the mean serum chloride level was 109 ± 4.5 (range 100,113) mmol/L and the mean arterial blood pH was 7.37 ± 0.2 (range 7.3,7.4). Two (6.7%) patients required oral alkaline supplementation because of high chloride levels. All the patients except one were continent throughout the day after 1 year. However, nocturnal enuresis was present in 25 (83.3%) cases. The pouch capacity was increased gradually up to 12 months postoperatively and the mean pouch capacity 12 months postoperatively was 460 ± 95.8 mL. Micturition occurred spontaneously in most patients while some needed abdominal straining. None of the patients had a residual urine of more than 60 mL. The mean maximum flow rate 6 months postoperatively was 9.8 (range 5.4,15.0) mL/s. After 6 months the stapled edge was noticed as a nodular line. One year postoperatively only a white scar could be observed at the suture line. Conclusion The Stanford pouch ileal neobladder constructed using absorbable staples was able to provide a good capacity,low pressure reservoir with a low rate of complications. [source] Synchronised therapy and high-dose cyclophosphamide in proliferative lupus nephritisJOURNAL OF CLINICAL APHERESIS, Issue 2 2002Maria Giovanna Danieli Abstract The aim of this open study was to compare the outcomes and side effects of plasmapheresis (PP) in patients with proliferative lupus nephritis treated with cyclophosphamide (Cyc) boluses. The study involved 28 consecutive patients. All of the patients met the ACR modified criteria for SLE and underwent a qualifying renal biopsy. In group I, patients were treated with synchronised therapy (PP, 50 ml/kg, followed by pulse Cyc, 750 mg/m2, repeated monthly for 6 months), whereas in group II, they were given only intermittent Cyc boluses (at the same dosage). The data were collected in the patients' records according to a standardised protocol. Patients were followed-up for a mean of 4 years. The disease-free survival was analysed using Kaplan-Meier estimated survival curves ([S(t)]). At the end of the 6-month treatment period, a statistically significant number of patients in group I (75%) was in complete remission in comparison to group II (31%) (P < 0.02), whereas at long-term follow-up, these percentages were similar (41% vs. 50%, P = n.s.). The main functional and immunological parameters showed a normalisation in both groups. The risk of a poor renal outcome significantly correlated with high serum creatinine levels at the onset of nephritis (P < 0.05). We documented a higher rate of infectious complications in group I. This study reports that synchronised therapy is useful in inducing a faster remission in patients with proliferative lupus nephritis. However, it is not superior to conventional therapy at long term follow-up analysis. Positive results should be reinforced by a long-term maintenance therapy. J. Clin. Apheresis 17:72,77, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Cellular senescence in pretransplant renal biopsies predicts postoperative organ functionAGING CELL, Issue 1 2009Liane M. McGlynn Summary Older and marginal donors have been used to meet the shortfall in available organs for renal transplantation. Post-transplant renal function and outcome from these donors are often poorer than chronologically younger donors. Some organs, however, function adequately for many years. We have hypothesized that such organs are biologically younger than poorer performing counterparts. We have tested this hypothesis in a cohort of pre-implantation human renal allograft biopsies (n = 75) that have been assayed by real-time polymerase chain reaction for the expression of known markers of cellular damage and biological aging, including CDKN2A, CDKN1A, SIRT2 and POT1. These have been investigated for any associations with traditional factors affecting transplant outcome (donor age, cold ischaemic time) and organ function post-transplant (serum creatinine levels). Linear regression analyses indicated a strong association for serum creatinine with pre-transplant CDKN2A levels (p = 0.001) and donor age (p = 0.004) at 6 months post-transplant. Both these markers correlated significantly with urinary protein to creatinine ratios (p = 0.002 and p = 0.005 respectively), an informative marker for subsequent graft dysfunction. POT1 expression also showed a significant association with this parameter (p = 0.05). Multiple linear regression analyses for CDKN2A and donor age accounted for 24.6% (p = 0.001) of observed variability in serum creatinine levels at 6 months and 23.7% (p = 0.001) at 1 year post-transplant. Thus, these data indicate that allograft biological age is an important novel prognostic determinant for renal transplant outcome. [source] Early steroid withdrawal after liver transplantation: The canadian tacrolimus versus microemulsion cyclosporin a trial: 1-year follow-upLIVER TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 6 2003Paul Greig Corticosteroid therapy contributes significant toxicity to liver transplantation. The safety and efficacy of early steroid withdrawal were determined in patients treated with either tacrolimus or microemulsion cyclosporin A (micro-CsA). The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who were steroid-free 1 year posttransplantation. From the seven Canadian adult liver transplant centers, 143 patients were randomly allocated oral treatment with either tacrolimus (n = 71) or micro-CsA (n = 72), together with corticosteroids and azathioprine. Eligibility criteria for steroid withdrawal included freedom from acute rejection for a minimum of 3 months, and prednisone ,0.15 mg/kg/d. In eligible patients, the daily steroid dose was reduced by 2.5 mg each month until complete discontinuation was achieved. At 1 year after transplantation, 75% of the tacrolimus patients and 63% of the micro-CsA patients were steroid-free (P = .20). Of all of the patients who became eligible for steroid withdrawal, steroid discontinuation was achieved in over 80%. One-year patient survival was 97% with tacrolimus and 89% with micro-CsA (P = .052). Graft survival was 97% and 86%, respectively (P = .017). The overall incidence of acute rejection during the first year was 35% with tacrolimus and 43% with micro-CsA (P = .26). There was no difference in survival, acute rejection, or rate of steroid withdrawal when adjusting for hepatitis C. All acute rejection episodes experienced during steroid withdrawal were steroid-responsive. Steroid-resistant rejection occurred in 5.6% of the tacrolimus and 9.7% of the micro-CsA patients. One patient, in the micro-CsA group, experienced refractory rejection. Chronic rejection was not observed in either group. The toxicity profiles were similar. Postoperative serum creatinine levels were similar, and dialysis was required in less than 10% of patients in each group. Infectious complications were similar in both groups. Neurotoxicity was a serious adverse event in 13% and 10% of patients receiving tacrolimus and micro-CsA, respectively. Early steroid withdrawal is safe and effective after liver transplantation using either tacrolimus plus azathioprine or micro-CsA plus azathioprine immunoprophylaxis. [source] Cost-effectiveness of the oral adsorbent AST-120 versus placebo for chronic kidney diseaseNEPHROLOGY, Issue 5 2008TOMOHIKO TAKAHASHI SUMMARY: Aim: This study was designed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of AST-120, an oral adsorbent that attenuates the progression of chronic kidney disease. Methods: We developed a Markov model with six health states, including four levels of serum creatinine, haemodialysis and death, using data from a randomized clinical trial conducted in Japan. Direct costs relevant to chronic kidney disease were calculated from a Japanese reimbursement perspective. Projected quality-adjusted life years (QALY) and costs were compared between the AST-120 and placebo groups. The target population was nondiabetic patients with serum creatinine levels from 5.0 to 8.0 mg/dL (442,707 µmol/L) at baseline. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate the stability of the results. Results: At 3 years, mean total costs per patient were estimated at „6.67 million (US$56 982) in the AST-120 group and „9.38 million (US$80 196) in the placebo group. Mean total costs were „2.72 million (US$23 205) lower among patients receiving AST-120. QALY per patient were 0.295 (approximately 3.5 months) greater for patients receiving AST-120 than for those receiving placebo over 3 years. The finding that treatment with AST-120 dominated placebo (i.e. was less costly and resulted in more QALY) was upheld in sensitivity analyses. Conclusion: The use of AST-120 in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease may help to slow the rate of growth in expenditures for kidney disease. [source] Reversible acute renal failure associated with hypothyroidism: Report of four cases with a brief review of literatureNEPHROLOGY, Issue 2 2003Ahmad MOORAKI SUMMARY: ,,We present four adult cases of acute renal failure associated with hypothyroidism. All patients presented with symptoms suggestive of moderate to severe hypothyroidism, such as cold intolerance, constipation, muscle weakness, and lower extremity oedema. Initial serum creatinine levels ranged between 115 and 203 µmol/L (1.3 and 2.3 mg/dL), with creatinine clearances (CrCl) ranging between 0.58 and 0.97 mL/s (34.5 and 58 mL/min). After 6,12 weeks of treatment with levothyroxin, serum creatinine levels decreased to the range of 80 and 124 µmol/L (0.9 and 1.4 mg/dL) and CrCl increased to 0.74,1.64 mL/s (44,98 mL/min). One patient had proteinuria of 800 mg/day, which decreased to the normal range (<200 mg/day) after levothyroxin treatment. One patient developed acute gouty arthritis before normalization of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which was successfully managed with prednisone therapy. All of our patients had increased creatine kinase (CK), ranging between 1000 and 2360 U/L (normal range, 22,165 U/L), which normalized after 6 weeks of levothyroxin treatment. [source] Mycotic pseudoaneurysm following a kidney transplant: A case report and review of the literaturePEDIATRIC TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 5 2009Ignacio Osmįn Abstract:, Vascular complications represent a significant cause of morbidity and mortality following a kidney transplant. Pseudoaneurysms are rare, occurring in approximately 1% of cases. We present a 15-yr-old patient who received a kidney transplant in the right iliac fossa. Thirty-six days following the transplant, the patient was admitted to the hospital because of a marked increase in serum creatinine levels, arterial hypertension, scrotal edema, and lower right limb pain. The patient did not present fever or raised inflammatory markers. A pseudoaneurysm was diagnosed by means of a Doppler echography and a CT. By a selective arteriography of the right iliac artery, we placed a 8 × 5 cm stent to isolate the pseudoaneurysm, due to the high risk of an extensive defect occurring in the arterial wall. Forty-eight h later the patient underwent transplant nephrectomy. Seven days following surgery, the patient experienced febrile syndrome and therefore another CT was carried out which showed a large abscess around the stent. So we decided to perform another intervention in order to drain this abscess. Due to the extensive loss of the arterial wall where the prosthesis was largely exposed, we ligated the common iliac and external iliac arteries, removed the prosthesis and performed a femoro-femoral bypass with the usual subcutaneous positioning of the prosthesis (separate from surgical site). The stent and mural thrombus were sent for culture analysis and Candida albicans was observed. The diagnosis of a pseudoaneurysm in these types of patients continues to be considered as a surgical emergency by the majority of authors. Transplantectomy is the most frequently used treatment technique. Positioning a stent prior to transplantectomy avoids ligature of the iliac artery in the majority of cases. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||