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Updated: May 17, 2026
05:47
Isolation of Mouse Interstitial Valve Cells to Study the Calcification of the Aortic Valve In Vitro
Published on: May 10, 2021
[Cardiac valves calcifications in dialysis patients]
Dragan Klarić1, Vera Klarić, Ivica Kristić
1Zadar General Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Croatia. dragan.klaric@zd.t-com.hr
Summary
Patients with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis have higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and calcium-x-phosphorus product (CaxP), associated with cardiac valve calcifications. Careful monitoring of calcium metabolism is crucial for reducing cardiovascular disease risk.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Cardiology
- Biochemistry
Context:
- Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly end-stage renal disease (ESRD), face significantly elevated risks of cardiovascular disease (CVD).
- Elevated serum phosphorus levels are a key factor in the development of cardiovascular calcifications and a major CVD risk factor in CKD patients.
Purpose:
- To investigate the association between serum levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), parathyroid hormone (PTH), and the calcium-x-phosphorus product (CaxP) with cardiac valve calcifications (VC) in patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD).
Summary:
- Cardiac valve calcifications were identified in 40% of hemodialysis patients using color Doppler echocardiography.
- Higher mean and maximum serum levels of CRP and CaxP were significantly correlated with the presence of VC.
- Elevated PTH and CRP levels, along with a higher CaxP product, were associated with cardiac valve calcifications, while age, dialysis duration, and BMI showed no correlation.
Impact:
- These findings underscore the importance of vigilant monitoring of calcium metabolism in ESRD patients.
- Implementing strategies to manage calcium and phosphorus levels may help mitigate valvular calcifications and reduce the overall risk of cardiovascular complications in this vulnerable population.
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