Hyperhomocysteinemia in chronic renal insufficiency

Abstract

Hyperhomocysteinemia is an independent risk factor for premature cardiovascular disease. Since the homocysteine level is elevated in patients with advanced chronic renal insufficiency, it has been presented as an important factor contributing to the development of cardiovascular complications in these patients. In this study we examined the level of homocysteine in patients with mild-moderate degree of glomerular filtration rate reduction (creatinine clearance >40 mL/min and <80 mL/min/1.73 m2). Thirty patients (f=15, m=15) were compared with healthy subjects (n=32, f=17 m=15). Blood samples were collected and subjected to assays for homocysteine creatinine, creatinine clearance. The results show that homocysteine levels of patients were significantly higher than those of healthy subjects (12.75 ± 3.9 vs. 8.5 ± 1.75 μmol/L, p<0.001). The obtained results also show a significant negative relationship between the level of homocysteine and creatinine clearance (r=-0.8). In conclusion, hyperhomocysteinemia is a common finding not only in advanced chronic renal insufficiency, but also in patients with mild-moderate reduction of glomerular filtration rate, and may significantly contribute to premature development of cardiovascular complications.

Keywords

• chronic renal insufficiency
• homocysteine