Iron Deficiency Anemia caused by hemodialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease (HDD-CKD)

Iron Deficiency Anemia Caused by Hemodialysis-Dependent Chronic Kidney Disease (HDD-CKD)

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common complication of hemodialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease (HDD-CKD). It is estimated that approximately 15-20% of patients with HDD-CKD develop IDA. It is caused by a decrease in the production of red blood cells (RBCs) by the bone marrow.

IDA can have a serious impact on patients with HDD-CKD. IDA can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and a decrease in the quality of life for these patients. Additionally, IDA is associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular and all-cause mortality.

There are several potential causes of IDA in patients with HDD-CKD. Such causes include inadequate dietary intake of iron, poor absorption of iron due to the presence of certain drugs or gastrointestinal diseases, inadequate responsiveness of the bone marrow to erythropoietin, as well as inadequate replacement of iron lost through dialysis.

The treatment of IDA in patients with HDD-CKD should include both an iron supplement and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs). Iron supplementation should be initiated promptly as soon as the diagnosis of IDA is confirmed. ESAs should be used to improve the responsiveness of the bone marrow to iron supplementation.

It is important to note that while iron supplementation is necessary for the treatment of IDA, it is also important to monitor the patient for possible iron overload. Iron overload can lead to an increase in inflammation, oxidative stress, and possibly death.

Finally, it is important to remember that IDA is a condition that can have a serious impact on the quality of life for patients with HDD-CKD. Prompt diagnosis and initiation of treatment with both iron supplementation and ESAs is necessary to improve the quality of life of these patients.

Summary

  • Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common complication of hemodialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease (HDD-CKD).
  • IDA can have a serious impact on patients with HDD-CKD, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and a decrease in quality of life.
  • Potential causes of IDA in patients with HDD-CKD include inadequate dietary intake of iron, poor absorption of iron, inadequate responsiveness of the bone marrow to erythropoietin, and inadequate replacement of iron lost through dialysis.
  • Treatment of IDA in patients with HDD-CKD should include both an iron supplement and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs).
  • It is important to monitor patients for possible iron overload.