Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate in Patients with Renal Insufficiency and Renal Replacement Therapy

Abstract

Background: Determination of the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a simple diagnostic tool for estimating systemic inflammation. It remains unclear whether ESR is influenced by renal disease or renal replacement therapy (RRT).

Objective: To report the incidence and extent of ESR elevations in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and the possible impact of RRT.

Methods: We performed a single-center, retrospective study in inpatients with or without renal disease and in those with RRT, comparing ESR levels and other laboratory and clinical information.

Results: A total of 203 patients were included. On average, ESR was elevated (mean [SD], 51.7 [34.6] mm/h), with no statistically significant difference between the patient groups. Only those receiving PD showed significantly higher ESR (78.3 [33.1] mm/h; P < .001).

Conclusions: ESR testing can be used without restriction in patients with CKD and in patients undergoing hemodialysis and who have received kidney transplantation; however, this measurement should be monitored carefully in patients with PD.

Keywords: chronic kidney disease; erythrocyte sedimentation rate; hemodialysis; inflammation; peritoneal dialysis; renal replacement therapy.