Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a serious condition that requires careful management to ensure the best outcomes for patients. One of the challenges faced by healthcare providers is determining which patients with advanced CKD would benefit most from conservative care rather than starting dialysis treatment.
Recently, researchers have made significant progress in this area by developing and validating a prediction model that can estimate individualized survival probabilities for patients with advanced CKD. This model compares the outcomes of conservative non-dialytic management versus dialysis and helps healthcare providers make informed decisions about the best course of treatment for each patient.
The study, which will be presented at ASN Kidney Week 2025, analyzed data from national databases to identify factors that are associated with higher mortality risk in patients with advanced CKD. These factors include age, baseline kidney function, albuminuria levels, frailty indexes, serum albumin levels, body mass index, recent hospitalizations, underlying health conditions, and transition to dialysis.
Dr. Connie Rhee, the corresponding author of the study, emphasized the importance of this new risk prediction tool in guiding treatment decisions for patients with advanced CKD. The goal of the research is to provide a stronger evidence base for conservative non-dialytic management and to offer patients more personalized treatment options.
The study is part of the ‘Defining Optimal Transitions of Care in Advanced Kidney Disease: Conservative Management vs. Dialysis Approaches (OPTIMAL)’ project, which aims to improve the shared decision-making process between patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers. By studying the comparative effectiveness of conservative management versus dialysis, researchers hope to expand treatment options and improve outcomes for patients with CKD.
Overall, this research has the potential to enhance the quality of care for patients with advanced CKD and improve the decision-making process surrounding treatment options. By providing healthcare providers with valuable information and tools, this study contributes to a more patient-centric approach to managing CKD.
This content was originally published by the American Society of Nephrology and is subject to copyright. For more information, please visit their website at http://www.asn-online.org/.
