HEPCIDIN AND IRON BIOMARKERS MODULATED IN HEMODIALYSIS PATIENTS

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) describes abnormal kidney function and/or structure. It is common, frequently unrecognized, and often exists together with other conditions.Aim - to investigate the role of serum hepcidin in inflammation among hemodialysis patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).This prospective hospital-based study conducted in Kirkuk city included 30 CKD patients undergoing regular hemodialysis at Kirkuk General Hospital, along with 30 healthy individuals as controls. Blood samples were collected before and after hemodialysis, as well as from the control group, and analyzed for various parameters. The blood samples were collected for determination of hepcidin levels were determined using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay, while S. iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC).The study found that HD patients had significantly higher levels of serum hepcidin compared to the control group. The mean serum hepcidin level in HD patients was 246.1±72.4 ng/ml, while in the control group, it was 105.7±20.2 ng/ml. Serum ferritin levels were also found to be significantly higher in HD patients compared to the control group (430.5±148.3 ng/ml vs. 153.8±60.6 ng/ml). HD patients had lower serum iron and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) levels compared to the control group (63.10±15.62 µg/dl vs. 92.98±26.68 µg/dl and 265.4±61.1 µg/dl vs. 273.3±65.9 µg/dl, respectively). After dialysis, both serum hepcidin levels decreased, with the mean serum hepcidin decreasing from 246.1±72.4 ng/ml to 206.3±61.8 ng/ml The study also demonstrated a positive correlation between hepcidin levels serum ferritin, urea, and creatinine, and a negative correlation with serum iron and hemoglobin levels in patients before hemodialysis.HD patients have higher levels of serum hepcidin, ferritin, iron and TIBC, suggesting potential involvement in inflammation and iron metabolism dysregulation.