[Nutrition, metabolic and endocrine complications during extrarenal dialysis]

Patients with chronic renal failure treated by maintenance dialysis often have nutritional disorders, metabolic disorders concerning lipids, proteins and carbohydrates, and disorders of endocrine systems involved in the regulation of these metabolisms. These disorders are difficult to diagnose, as their clinical symptoms are few and of little pathognomonic value. Hence the need for anthropometric measurements as well as biochemical and physiological exploration of metabolic pathways for intermittent overall evaluation and longitudinal follow-up. These patients have reduced subcutaneous fat reserves, intolerance to carbohydrates by resistance to insulin (partially corrected by haemodialysis), low levels of plasma aminoacids, notably valine, type IV hyperlipidaemia with low levels of essential fatty acids, fragile immune system and increased requirements for vitamins B, especially B6. Dietary recommendations include: food energy 35 kiloCal/kg bodyweight/day; proteins 1 to 1.2 g/kg bodyweight/day (50 p. 100 of which must be complete proteins) and supplements of vitamins. Dialysis must be optimal for clearance of nitrogen compounds and body homeostasis.