| Sub-title | |
| Authors | J Farrugia E Farrugia |
| Abstract | Aim: To determine the prevalence of hyperphosphataemia, hypercalcaemia and raised calcium x phosphate product in the Maltese haemodialysis (HD) population and compare this with recommended targets. Methods: All 68 chronic HD patients under the care of one consultant nephrologist had a biochemical analysis during the first week of January 2006. Results: 66% of patients had a corrected predialysis calcium level within the recommended target of 2.2-2.6mmol/l; 22% and 12% respectively had a level below and above this range. Only 44% had a normal phosphate level of 0.8-1.8mmol/l (recommended in the European Dialysis and Transplant Association Guidelines) but 63% fulfilled the less stringent Caring for Australians with Renal Impairment (CARI) Guidelines (< 2.2mmol/l). While 78% had a calcium x phosphate product below the maximum accepted level of 5.8(mmol/l)2 only 47% had a product that was lower than the ideal upper level of 4.2(mmol/l)2 Conclusion: The prevalence of hyperphosphataemia and a raised calcium x phosphate product in the Maltese HD population is high. This tends to be a problem in dialysis units worldwide. In addressing this problem one has to consider the compelling evidence implicating calcium based phosphate binders in the aetiology of vascular calcification. The latter has in turn been associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Hence the emphasis on the use on non-hypercalcaemic Vit D analogues and noncalcium based phosphate binders. |
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| Journal | Malta Medical Journal |
| Volume | 15 Issue 1-2/suppl. 2003 |
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| Key words | haemodialysis, phosphate, calcium |