A Study of Pattern and Characteristics of CKD of Unknown Etiology in a Tertiary Care Centre

Abstract

Background: There were concerns raised regarding a high prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Marathwada region. The present study was undertaken to ascertain the prevalence of CKD, disease characteristics, and risk factor profile in this area.

Materials and Methods: We selected 1300 subjects (age >18 years) using multistage sampling. After obtaining demographic and anthropometric data, urinary protein-creatinine ratio, serum creatinine, and blood glucose were measured in all the subjects. Glomerular filtration rate was estimated (eGFR) using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease equation.

Results: Mean age of the subjects was 42.80 ± 14.25 years (range: 18–98), 43% were men and 55% were women. Mean eGFR of subjects was 94.3±33.4. Low eGFR (<60 ml/min per 1.73 m2) was seen in 182 (13.98%) patients with a mean eGFR of 34.8 ±16.6. The prevalence of subjects having low eGFR and with proteinuria (CKD) was 18.23%. Major risk factors, such as diabetes, long-standing hypertension, and Significant proteinuria, were absent in 73% of patients with CKD, implying that a significant proportion of the population is afflicted with the entity “CKD of unknown etiology (CKDu).

Conclusion: The prevalence of CKD and CKDu in Marathwada region is much higher than other earlier studies in either rural or urban communities in India. We suggest that there is a dire need to review health policies and allocate resources for prevention and treatment of CKD in the Marathwada region.