Metabolic Profile of Living Kidney Donors: A One-Year Analysis

Kidney donation's effects on renal function are well-documented, but its metabolic consequences are less explored. To provide accurate information to donors and ensure appropriate follow-up, this study evaluates the potential metabolic impact of kidney donation over 12 months.

A longitudinal study of 26 living kidney donors assessed participants at predonation (T0), 6 (6M), and 12 (12M) months postdonation. Key parameters included body mass index (BMI), renal function, HbA1c, lipid profile, nutritional and hormonal markers, anemia, and hypertension. Comparisons were made between T0 and both 6M and 12M.

The cohort was predominantly female (n = 20; 76.9%), median age 52.19 ± 8.16 years. BMI, lipid profile, and nutritional markers (eg, albumin) showed no significant changes. Bone metabolism markers (eg, parathyroid hormone, calcium, phosphorus) were stable. HbA1c levels rose slightly at 6M (T0: 5.54 ± 0.37 g/dL; 6M: 5.57 ± 0.13 g/dL; P = .010), though not clinically relevant. TSH levels increased modestly (T0: 1.67 ± 0.83 mUI/L; 6M: 2.29 ± 1.25 mUI/L; P = .011; 12M: 2.14 ± 1.01 mUI/L; P = .021). Hemoglobin increased at 12M (T0: 12.84 ± 1.73 g/dL; 12M: 13.29 ± 1.19 g/dL; P = .013). Hypertension incidence rose slightly (T0: 8 [30.77%]; 12M: 9 [34.62%]; P < .001). Renal function (estimated glomerular filtration rate) decreased (T0: 110.10 ± 12.33 mL/min/1.73 m²; 6M: 68.71 ± 10.84; 12M: 71.21 ± 11.61; P < .001), consistent with postdonation adaptation.

Kidney donation appears metabolically safe. BMI, lipids, and nutritional markers remained stable. Minor increases in HbA1c, TSH, and hypertension were not clinically significant. Hemoglobin elevation may reflect compensatory erythropoiesis. Hypertension increase warrants further study for potential long-term cardiovascular risks.