Anemia in Elderly Patients: Contribution of Renal Aging and Chronic Kidney Disease

Abstract

Renal aging is a physiological process characterized by structural and functional changes in the kidneys. The presence of disorders or pathologies can exacerbate these age-related changes, potentially leading to organ dysfunction. Chronic kidney disease (CKD), a significant global public health issue, is particularly prevalent in the elderly and is often associated with the age-related decline in kidney function. Anemia is one of the most frequent complications of CKD and is also highly prevalent in the elderly. Mild anemia, often multifactorial, is the most common presentation. Understanding the mechanisms driving anemia in this population is crucial to ensure appropriate treatment. The primary etiologies include nutritional deficiency, anemia of unknown cause, and anemia of chronic diseases, including CKD. This review provides an in-depth exploration of the complex pathophysiological mechanisms underlying anemia in elderly patients with CKD.