Can CBC Profile and Liver Function Test Predict Chronic Kidney Disease among a Normal Population?

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Epidemiology
• Hematology

Background:

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive urinary system disorder often diagnosed late due to its silent nature.
• Early identification of CKD risk factors is crucial for timely intervention and management.
• Investigating the association between CKD and routine blood test parameters can aid in early detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of CKD in a general population in northern Iran.
• To explore the relationship between CKD and Complete Blood Count (CBC) parameters and liver function tests.

Main Methods:

• The study analyzed data from 5822 subjects in the Tabari cohort, excluding those with major comorbidities.
• Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was calculated using creatinine clearance and the MDRD equation.
• CKD was defined as a GFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m².

Main Results:

• The overall prevalence of CKD was 20.2%, with higher rates in women (23.1%) than men (16.8%).
• Lower Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) and lymphocyte counts were associated with a reduced risk of CKD (ORs 0.78-0.81 and 1.22, respectively).
• Higher Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) levels significantly increased CKD risk (ORs 1.42-2.79).

Conclusions:

• A high prevalence of CKD exists in the apparently healthy population of northern Iran, with women being more affected.
• Low MCV, low lymphocyte count, and high BUN are identified as significant predictors for CKD.
• These findings highlight the potential of routine blood tests in identifying individuals at risk for CKD.