Reassessment of the care of the patient with chronic kidney disease

Abstract

The paper by Fischer et al. focuses attention on the striking prevalence of depressive symptoms in non-dialyzed chronic kidney disease patients. The presence of depressive symptoms correlated with various health-related quality of life measures and economic status. These findings suggest that our view of providing care needs to broaden to incorporate not only thorough medical care, education, and dietary support, but also psychosocial assessments. They also underscore the importance of providing this care to those who are most vulnerable. © 2010 International Society of Nephrology.