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The epidemic challenge of chronic kidney disease in older patients

Ahmed H Abdelhafiz1, Evelyn Tan, Meguid El Nahas

  • 1Department of Elderly Medicine, Rotherham General Hospital, Rotherham, UK. ahmedhafiz@hotmail.com

Postgraduate Medicine
|November 21, 2008
PubMed

Insights

The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) has increased chronic kidney disease (CKD) diagnoses, especially in older adults. This review covers CKD diagnosis, management, and treatment decisions in the elderly population.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Geriatric Medicine
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • The widespread adoption of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) has led to an increased identification of chronic kidney disease (CKD).
  • Elderly individuals frequently present with reduced GFR, making them a significant demographic for CKD prevalence.
  • CKD significantly influences patient prognosis and overall health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review key aspects of chronic kidney disease in older patients.
  • To emphasize the diagnosis and management strategies for geriatric CKD.
  • To explore decision-making processes for specialist referral and renal replacement therapy in elderly CKD patients.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature review on CKD in the elderly.
  • Analysis of diagnostic criteria and management guidelines for geriatric populations.
  • Examination of factors influencing referral and treatment decisions for renal replacement therapy.

Main Results:

  • The introduction of eGFR has markedly increased CKD detection rates, particularly in the elderly.
  • Low GFR is common in older adults, highlighting their vulnerability to CKD.
  • CKD in older patients necessitates careful consideration of diagnosis, management, and end-of-life care planning.

Conclusions:

  • CKD is increasingly diagnosed in the elderly, impacting their health outcomes.
  • Effective management requires tailored approaches for older adults, considering their unique physiological profiles.
  • Informed decision-making regarding specialist care and renal replacement therapy is crucial for geriatric CKD patients.

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