REGULAR LABORATORY MONITORING OF RENAL FUNCTION IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC DISEASES MAY DELAY PROGRESSION TO DIALYSIS IN JORDANIAN PATIENTS

Abstract

Introduction: Regular laboratory assessment of kidney function in patients with chronic diseases plays a crucial role in the early detection of renal impairment and may help delay progression to dialysis. Methods: This multi-centre study aimed to analyse routine laboratory data of patients with chronic diseases in Jordan. Data were collected from several centres and included key laboratory parameters measured every six months, such as serum creatinine, urea, uric acid, albumin, glucose, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT). The analysis aimed to identify trends in these parameters, explore potential correlations among them, and assess their implications for patient management and outcomes, specifically progression to end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis. Results: In a study involving 400 patients with Chronic Diseases aged 10 to 84, the highest average glucose level was observed in the 70-79 age group at 174.8 mg/dL. The peak creatinine levels were noted in the 40-49 age range, while the highest urea levels were recorded in the elderly group of 80-89 years, which exhibited the lowest creatinine level at 6.35 mg/dL. Interestingly, levels of uric acid, AST, and ALT remained within normal ranges across all age groups. However, a concerning finding was that albumin levels in the 80-89 age group were below normal, indicating potential issues with nutritional status or kidney function in this demographic. Conclusion: Indeed, Regular Laboratory Monitoring of Renal Function in patients with Chronic Diseases is directly influenced by their clinical status. Factors such as the underlying kidney disease, age, comorbidities, and overall health greatly impact parameters like electrolyte levels, creatinine clearance, and haemoglobin. For example, older patients or those with additional health issues may experience more pronounced shifts in their lab results due to decreased physiological resilience and potential complications. Consequently, healthcare providers must closely monitor these variations and adjust treatment protocols accordingly to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Regular assessment of laboratory data tailored to each patient's condition is essential for effective management in patients with Chronic Diseases.