Impact of Abnormal Serum Electrolyte Levels and Acid-Base Disorders on Clinical Outcomes among Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients

Abstract

There has been a notable rise in the number of patients diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD) over the years across the world, with most cases subsequently leading to end-stage renal failure. Hemodialysis (HD) remains one of the main treatments for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) worldwide. Despite improvements in dialysis care, the mortality of patients with ESRD on maintenance hemodialysis is persistently high. Abnormal levels of serum electrolytes, pre- and post-dialysis, and acid-base disorders have a crucial influence on clinical outcomes in HD patients. In this review, we aim to discuss the different effects that serum electrolyte levels have on the prognosis of patients on maintenance hemodialysis, particularly sodium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus and bicarbonate.