Cardiovascular disease in CKD in children: update on risk factors, risk assessment, and management

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Cardiology
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality in young adults with childhood-onset chronic kidney disease (CKD).
• High prevalence of traditional and uremia-related CVD risk factors during childhood CKD contributes to increased CVD.
• Early indicators of cardiomyopathy and atherosclerosis are common in this patient group.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated review of recent advances in understanding cardiovascular disease risks in pediatric CKD patients.
• To highlight current management strategies for cardiovascular complications in this population.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on CVD risk factors in pediatric CKD.
• Analysis of early markers for cardiomyopathy and atherosclerosis.

Main Results:

• Common early markers include left ventricular hypertrophy, left ventricular dysfunction, increased carotid artery intima-media thickness, carotid arterial wall stiffness, and coronary artery calcification.
• These findings indicate significant cardiovascular burden even in childhood.

Conclusions:

• Early identification and management of CVD risk factors are crucial for improving outcomes in pediatric CKD.
• Ongoing research is vital for refining treatment strategies and preventing premature cardiovascular events.