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Updated: Apr 9, 2026

A Semi-Automated and Reproducible Biological-Based Method to Quantify Calcium Deposition In Vitro
Published on: June 2, 2022
[Is the Sodium Thiosulfate Therapy useful for vascular calcification in dialysis Pts?]
Insights
Sodium thiosulfate (STS) may help reduce vascular calcifications in hemodialysis patients. This study found STS improved leg pain and fatigue, though calcification markers showed only modest changes.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Vascular calcifications are a significant risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in uremic patients.
- Sodium thiosulfate (STS) has demonstrated potential in mitigating uremic calcification progression in hemodialysis patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of intravenously administered Sodium thiosulfate (STS) on aortic calcification progression and associated symptoms in hemodialysis patients.
- To assess changes in calcification index, mineral metabolism, parathyroid hormone (PTH), and oral chelation therapy during STS treatment.
Main Methods:
- 18 hemodialysis patients received 10 grams of STS infused during the final 2 hours of dialysis sessions for 6 months.
- Evaluated Kauppila's calcification index, calcium-phosphorus metabolism, PTH levels, and oral chelation therapy.
- Assessed STS side effects and patient-reported symptomatic improvements via questionnaire.
Main Results:
- A modest reduction in Kauppila's calcification index was observed (16.4 ± 5.5 to 15.1 ± 4.6).
- No significant changes in calcium-phosphorus metabolism or PTH levels were detected.
- Statistically significant improvements in leg pain, power reserve, and reduced muscle fatigue were reported.
Conclusions:
- Preliminary findings suggest Sodium thiosulfate (STS) may positively impact vasculopathic symptoms in hemodialysis patients.
- STS shows potential in slowing the progression of vascular calcifications, warranting further investigation in larger cohorts.
Abstract:
Vascular calcifications in uremic patients are associated with a significant increase in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Sodium thiosulfate (STS) has been shown to reduce the progression of uremic calcifications in haemodialysis patients. In our study we evaluated the effects on evolution of aortic calcifications of the drug infused during the last 2 hours of dialysis sessions at a dose of 10 grams. 18 hemodialysis patients were evaluated as regards the calcifications index according to Kauppila, calcium-phosphorus metabolism, PTH, and oral chelation therapy. The side effects of STS and the symptomatic effects reported by the patient, were also evaluated using a questionnaire delivered to patients. After 6 months of therapy, a modest reduction of the Kauppila's index (from 16.4 5.5 to 15.1 4.6) was detected. No significant change was detected in blood tests. Even chelation therapy did not suffer variations. It was also showed a clear and statistically significant improvement in signs and symptoms of leg pain, a moderate improvement of' power reserve and a reduction of muscle fatigue. The results of our study, although preliminary and on a small number of patients, confirm a positive effect of STS on vasculopatic symptoms and progression of vascular calcifications.
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