C-reactive Protein: Repeated Measurements will Improve Dialysis Patient Care

Semin Dial. 2016 Jan-Feb;29(1):7-14. doi: 10.1111/sdi.12440. Epub 2015 Sep 11.

Abstract

Systemic inflammation is a common feature in the uremic phenotype and associates with poor outcomes. The awareness regarding the importance of inflammation assessment in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients has risen in recent years, and despite the development of novel biomarkers, C-reactive protein (CRP) is still the most measured inflammatory parameter. Notwithstanding, the possible weak points of CRP determination, this biomarker has demonstrated being useful both for guidance in clinical practice and for risk estimation. In addition, regular determination of CRP among dialysis patients has been associated with better outcomes in different dialysis facilities. Because persistent inflammation may be a silent reflection of various pathophysiologic alterations in CKD, it is crucial that inflammatory markers are regularly monitored and therapeutic attempts be made to target this inflammation.

Publication types

  • Editorial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers
  • C-Reactive Protein / analysis*
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / blood
  • Inflammation / diagnosis
  • Inflammation / etiology
  • Patient Care / standards
  • Quality Improvement
  • Renal Dialysis*
  • Renal Insufficiency, Chronic / blood*
  • Renal Insufficiency, Chronic / complications
  • Renal Insufficiency, Chronic / therapy*

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • C-Reactive Protein