Thirst intensity survey in ADPKD patients

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Pharmacology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a genetic disorder.
• Tolvaptan treatment aims to slow cyst growth in ADPKD.
• Understanding thirst sensation in ADPKD patients is crucial for treatment management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate thirst sensation in ADPKD patients undergoing tolvaptan treatment.
• To identify factors influencing thirst intensity and distress in ADPKD patients.
• To assess the impact of tolvaptan and co-treatments on thirst perception.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study comparing 41 ADPKD patients on tolvaptan with 40 controls not on tolvaptan.
• Thirst distress was measured using the 12-question Thirst Distress Scale-HF.
• Thirst intensity was assessed using a 100 mm visual analog scale.

Main Results:

• A negative correlation was observed between thirst distress and increased creatinine levels post-tolvaptan treatment (r = -0.335, p = 0.035).
• Patients not receiving thiazide diuretics reported higher thirst intensity scores (p = 0.004).
• Tolvaptan dosage, kidney volume, serum sodium, urinary osmolarity, and eGFR did not significantly affect thirst scores.

Conclusions:

• Thiazide co-treatment positively impacts thirst distress and intensity in ADPKD patients on tolvaptan.
• The Thirst Distress Scale is a valuable tool for assessing ADPKD patients before and during tolvaptan therapy.