Influence of Nutritional and Inflammational Status on Survival of Hemodialysis Patients

prospective longitudinal measurements of nutritional status parameters (body composition by BIA, anthropometry and biochemical indexes), inflammatory response (CRP, inflammatory cytokines (IL-1, IL-6, IL-10),IGF-1, leptin and NOx blood levels) and morbidity and mortality data collection over 2 year period in patients receiving chronic hemodialysis.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male or female, age > 18 years, in chronic hemodialysis treatment at least 3 months
• Stable and adequate hemodialysis treatment three months prior to participation in study as defined by Kt/V > 1.2 and/or hemodialysis performed 4 hours 3 times weekly
• Patients with normal hydration status (edema-free), with no neuro-muscular diseases
• Informed consent obtained before any trial-related activities

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with edema, pleural effusion or ascites at their initial assessment

• Patients with active malignant disease or liver cirrhosis

• Patients with neuro-muscular diseases

• Patients on chronic treatment with steroids on doses > 10 mg/day Prednisone (or equivalent)

• Patients treated with immunosuppressive agents

• Patients suffering from

  • Acute vasculitis
  • Severe systemic infections
  • Heart failure (NYHA class III-IV)

• The receipt of any investigational drug within 1 month prior to initiating of this study