Neurocognitive and psychosocial burden in patients with end-stage renal disease: A pilot study

This study aimed to evaluate cognitive function, psychological profile, and quality of life in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing hemodialysis therapy. Twenty-six participants were enrolled: 13 ESRD patients undergoing hemodialysis therapy and 13 age-matched healthy controls (CTR group) (mean age: 35 ± 4.3 years). Cognitive performance was assessed using the reaction time test, vigilance test, Stroop test, verbal fluency test, and Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT). Psychological status was measured using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales (DASS-21), while quality of life was evaluated with the SF-36 questionnaire. ESRD patients showed significantly poorer performance than CTR on the vigilance test (p < 0.01), verbal fluency (p < 0.018), and Stroop test (p < 0.012). RAVLT scores (total recall, delayed recall, and recognition) were also significantly lower in the ESRD group (all p < 0.05). DASS-21 results indicated high prevalence of severe psychological symptoms: 51.8% reported severe stress, 56.7% severe depression, and 90.8% severe to extremely severe anxiety. Regarding quality of life, ESRD group scored significantly lower on physical functioning, general health, pain, social functioning, and role limitations due to physical or emotional problems (all p < 0.01). Energy-fatigue scores were also reduced (p < 0.001). No significant difference was found in emotional well-being between groups.In conclusion, patients with ESRD experience marked impairments in cognitive performance, psychological well-being, and quality of life, highlighting the need for integrated medical and psychological care.