New Insights Reveal Kidney Failure Risk Equation Might Miss Key Risks
Recent research led by the University of Glasgow has uncovered potential inaccuracies in a widely used medical tool for predicting kidney failure risk. Published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology (CJASN), the study suggests that the Kidney Failure Risk Equation (KFRE) might not accurately assess risk for patients with chronic kidney disease who also suffer from frailty.
The research team examined data from 24,489 individuals from the UK Biobank. Their findings indicate that risk predictions can be significantly improved for this patient group by incorporating a simple, alternative blood test alongside the KFRE tool. The study highlights the potential of the cystatin C test, which offers a more precise measure of kidney function compared to the standard creatinine test, especially in older adults.
Cystatin C is gaining attention as a superior method for evaluating kidney function, with previous studies suggesting it may better identify increased risks of cancer mortality in chronic kidney disease patients. This study underscores the importance of addressing frailty, a condition marked by increased vulnerability to stressors and adverse outcomes like falls and hospitalizations, which is prevalent among those with chronic kidney disease.
While the current clinical guidelines primarily recommend using the KFRE for managing kidney disease, there is a lack of evidence on adjusting management strategies in the presence of frailty. Dr. Heather Walker from the University’s School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health emphasized the study's implications for clinical practice, noting the need for improved testing and care for patients who experience both frailty and chronic conditions.
Dr. Bhautesh Jani, a Clinical Senior Lecturer at the University’s School of Health and Wellbeing, added that understanding frailty's impact on health outcomes is vital for tailoring treatment options for chronic kidney disease patients. This study, titled ‘Frailty in Adults with Chronic Kidney Disease and Validation of the Kidney Failure Risk Equation in Frailty Sub-Groups,’ offers valuable insights into enhancing care for vulnerable patient groups.