Malnutrition in patients with chronic kidney disease

Abstract

Malnutrition is a major issue in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), adversely affecting morbidity, mortality, functional activity and patients’ quality of life. Our knowledge of the pathogenic mechanisms of malnutrition in patients with CKD, including endstage renal disease, has been improved. This has led to the development of clinical practice guidelines for nutritional care in CKD which provide a framework for the nutritional issues facing patients and physiccians. Extensive research in the field of nutrition in patients with CKD has resulted in the formation of general guidelines, although some uncertainties still exist on some of the best therapeutic or preventive options in uremic malnutrition. It is important to search actively for malnutrition since early diagnosis and treatment can improve the prognosis for CKD patients and reduce the monetary costs connected with treatment.