Management of Iron Deficiency Anemia in Hemodialysis Patients

Evaluating the Therapeutic Impact of Lactoferrin on Complications in Patients With End-Stage Renal Disease

The aim of this interventional study is to assess the effectiveness of oral lactoferrin in improving hemoglobin levels and correcting iron deficiency anemia in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on dialysis and also evaluate the impact of lactoferrin on bone health by measuring serum calcium and phosphate and other bone health indicators.

The participants will be divided into 3 groups as follow

• The Lactoferrin group will receive treatment of oral lactoferrin at a dose of 100 mg twice daily alongside erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) therapy for three months.
• The IV Iron group will receive IV Iron therapy with ESA for the same duration
• The Lactoferrin + IV Iron group will receive both oral lactoferrin at a dose of 100 mg twice daily and IV Iron therapy alongside erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) therapy for three months.

The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate the therapeutic impact of oral Lactoferrin on correcting iron deficiency anemia and improving bone health in patients diagnosed with end-stage renal disease.

AS End-stage renal disease (ESRD) represents a serious medical, social, and economic burden on any society and requires continuous medical attention and comprehensive healthcare services. Without appropriate treatment, it can be life-threatening.

Anemia is a common complication in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and has been linked to negative cardiovascular outcomes . Managing anemia often involves the use of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs); however, targeting normal hemoglobin levels through ESA therapy has been associated with a heightened risk of cardiovascular events and mortality. To achieve effective anemia control, iron supplementation alongside ESAs plays a crucial role. Iron therapy not only helps elevate hemoglobin levels, but also lowers the necessary dosage of ESAs . However, Iron One of the drawbacks of intravenous (IV) iron administration in hemodialysis patients is its potential link to an increased risk of infections, as suggested by some observational studies-though the evidence remains conflicting and inconclusive.

Lactoferrin, also known as the "red protein," is a cationic glycoprotein from the transferrin family with an exceptionally high affinity for iron-approximately 300 times greater than transferrin. Its red color results from this strong iron-binding property. Its production increases during infection and inflammation It contributes to intestinal iron regulation, enhances the body's defense against microbial infections, acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, Thus, and in contrast to iron therapy, lactoferrin offers several advantages over conventional iron supplements, including better gastrointestinal tolerance, fewer side effects associated with high-dose iron intake, and added anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Another complication associated with patients with ESRD is Chronic Kidney Disease-Mineral and Bone Disorder (CKD-MBD), which is a complex, multifactorial condition characterized by disruptions in mineral metabolism, particularly involving calcium, phosphate, vitamin D and parathyroid hormone (PTH). Impaired kidney function leads to phosphate retention, decreased calcitriol synthesis, and calcium imbalance, triggering secondary hyperparathyroidism. Altogether, these hormonal and biochemical changes contribute to both skeletal complications and cardiovascular risks in CKD patients.

Lactoferrin also promotes bone growth by stimulating osteoblast proliferation, preventing cell death, and inhibiting osteoclast formation. These properties suggest its potential as a therapeutic agent for bone healing and osteoporosis Thus, the current study aims to assess the effect of lactoferrin use in patients with ESRD and receiving dialysis assessing its therapeutic potential in enhancing bone mineral density and correcting anemia in patients with chronic kidney disease

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adult patients aged over 18
• Diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on maintenance hemodialysis (3 sessions/week).
• Diagnosed with functional iron deficiency anemia

Exclusion Criteria:

• Active infection
• Inflammation (any cause other than CKD)
• Recent bleeding and recent blood transfusion
• Patients with decompensated medical conditions