Mapping a Decade of Research: Bibliometric Analysis of Iron Overload in Chronic Kidney Disease

This study conducts a bibliometric analysis (BA) to map the research landscape surrounding chronic kidney disease (CKD) and iron overload over the past decade. Utilizing PubMed as the primary database, a systematic search strategy was developed using BA guidelines, incorporating keyword and MeSH term refinements for comprehensive data retrieval. A Boolean operator-based search strategy was applied, capturing literature from 2014 to the first quarter of 2024, with inclusion criteria focusing on articles and review articles published in English. An initial pool of 408 records was narrowed to 52 articles after applying filters and exclusions based on relevance and document type. Data analysis employed the Java-based bibliometric tool VOSviewer, facilitating citation analysis, keyword co-occurrence mapping, and network visualization of author and institutional contributions. MeSH terms and keywords were analyzed for frequency and signal strength, with "Humans," "Iron," and "Iron Overload" emerging as dominant terms. Trends in publication activity from 2014 to 2024 revealed cyclic patterns influenced by external factors. The institutional analysis highlighted contributions from key healthcare and research institutions globally. The findings underline significant themes, contributors, and research gaps within the field, providing valuable insights for future CKD and iron management studies. This study not only identifies major trends and collaborative networks but also highlights potential areas for advancing patient care and treatment strategies for CKD patients with iron-related conditions.