The relationship between inflammatory markers, leptin and adiponectin in chronic hemodialysis patients

Chronic inflammation is prevalent in dialysis patients. We investigated the relationship between inflammation and newly identified adipokines: leptin and adiponectin in this population. A total of 129 chronic hemodialysis patients were collected. Serum high sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), leptin and adiponectin levels were determined as well as other metabolic variables. Correlation studies and multiple regression analysis were performed among variables. Our results showed that hemodialysis patients had elevated levels of inflammatory markers, leptin and adiponectin. Diabetic subjects had higher serum CRP and lower albumin levels than non-diabetics. Serum CRP levels were positively correlated with IL-6 levels and negatively correlated with albumin levels. Serum leptin levels were directly related to CRP levels while adiponectin levels were inversely related to CRP levels. A significant negative correlation was observed between serum leptin and adiponectin levels. Serum IL-6 levels were the single independent factor affecting CRP levels. Body mass index can predict both serum leptin and adiponectin levels. We conclude that hemodialysis patients are at an increased risk of chronic inflammation and diabetes patients are even more susceptible to this status. Both serum leptin and adiponectin levels are associated with inflammatory markers. As adipose tissue is the major secreting site of these adipokines, our results suggest that adipose tissue plays an important role in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammation in dialysis patients.