Measuring nutritional status in children with chronic kidney disease

Association of handgrip strength with nutritional status and clinical outcomes in hospitalized pediatric patients

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Malnutrition in children and adolescents is prevalent at hospital admission and the incidence increases with length of stay. Malnourished patients have loss of muscle mass and strength, compromising their functionality. Handgrip strength (HGS) is a nutritional marker understudied in pediatrics although it is capable of detecting nutritional deprivation before changes in body composition are observed. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the association between reduced HGS at hospital admission, compromised nutritional status and worse clinical outcomes of pediatric patients.

METHODS

Cohort study conducted with patients aged 6-18 years admitted to a pediatric ward. Nutritional status was assessed in the first 48 h of hospital admission using the z-score of height for age (H/A) and body mass index for age (BMI/A), percentile of mid-arm muscle circumference for age (MAMC/A) and the pediatric global subjective nutritional assessment (SGNA). HGS was measured using a digital dynamometer and considered reduced when the maximum value of three measurements was below the 5th percentile for sex and age. The clinical outcomes analyzed were length of hospital stay and frequency of readmission within 3 months after hospital discharge.

RESULTS

A total of 135 patients were evaluated (median age 10.9 years, 55.6% male) and 17.8% had reduced HGS. Patients with reduced HGS had lower H/A z-score (-0.50 vs 0.22, p = 0.012) and a higher frequency of reduced MAMC when compared to those with normal HGS (8% vs 13%, p = 0.007). Reduced HGS was not associated with malnutrition (OR = 0.63; 95%CI 0.23-1.77), prolonged hospital stay (OR = 1.89; 95%CI 0.72-4.92) or readmission to hospital 3 months after hospital discharge (OR = 1.82; 95%CI 0.67-4.93), in a model adjusted for the clinical condition.

CONCLUSION

Reduced HGS was not a predictor of malnutrition and clinical outcomes. However, it was associated with lower H/A Z-score and MAMC/A percentile values and can be used as a complementary measure in the nutritional status assessment of hospitalized pediatric patients.

Screening for protein energy wasting in children with chronic kidney disease using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry as an additional tool

BACKGROUND

The current diagnosis of protein energy wasting (PEW) is based on scoring systems that lack precision in measuring muscle deficits. We undertook this cross-sectional study to determine the prevalence of PEW in children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) using a scoring system that included dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) for measuring lean body mass (LBM) and to determine the prevalence of selected markers in PEW.

METHODS

Thirty CKD and 20 healthy children (1-18 years) were evaluated for (1) reduced dietary protein intake (DPI); (2) BMI < fifth centile for height age (BMI/HA); (3) serum albumin < 3.8 g/dl, cholesterol < 100 mg/dl, or CRP > 3 mg/L; (4) LBM < fifth centile for height age [LBMr] on DEXA. PEW was scored as minimal-one parameter positive in 2/4 categories; standard-one parameter positive in 3/4 categories; or modified-standard plus height < 2 SD.

RESULTS

Twenty children with CKD (66.7%) had PEW, (5/9) 55% in CKD 3, and (15/21) 71% in advanced CKD; minimal 12, standard 1, and modified 7. LBMr was seen in 20 (100%), reduced DPI in 16 (80%), and BMI/HA in 6 (30%) children with PEW. LBMr had 100% sensitivity and BMI/HA 100% specificity. LBMr was seen in 8 who had no other criteria for PEW. None of the parameters were positive in controls (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

PEW prevalence in CKD was high. Both prevalence and severity were higher in advanced CKD. LBMr was a highly sensitive marker to detect PEW. LBMr seen in some children with CKD who were negative for other markers could represent subclinical PEW.

Malnutrition Patterns in Children with Chronic Kidney Disease

Malnutrition is frequent in children with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Apart from undernutrition and protein energy wasting (PEW), overnutrition prevalence is rising, resulting in fat mass accumulation. Sedentary behavior and unbalanced diet are the most important causal factors. Both underweight and obesity are linked to adverse outcomes regarding renal function, cardiometabolic risk and mortality rate. Muscle wasting is the cornerstone finding of PEW, preceding fat loss and may lead to fatigue, musculoskeletal decline and frailty. In addition, clinical data emphasize the growing occurrence of muscle mass and strength deficits in patients with fat mass accumulation, attributed to CKD-related wasting processes, reduced physical activity and possibly to obesity-induced inflammatory diseases, leading to sarcopenic obesity. Moreover, children with CKD are susceptible to abdominal obesity, resulting from high body fat distribution into the visceral abdomen compartment. Both sarcopenic and abdominal obesity are associated with increased cardiometabolic risk. This review analyzes the pathogenetic mechanisms, current trends and outcomes of malnutrition patterns in pediatric CKD. Moreover, it underlines the importance of body composition assessment for the nutritional evaluation and summarizes the advantages and limitations of the currently available techniques. Furthermore, it highlights the benefits of growth hormone therapy and physical activity on malnutrition management.

Assessment of fluid removal using ultrasound, bioimpedance and anthropometry in pediatric dialysis: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Fluid overload is associated with morbidity and mortality in children receiving dialysis. Accurate clinical assessment is difficult, and using deuterium oxide (D₂O) to measure total body water (TBW) is impractical. We investigated the use of ultrasound (US), bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS), and anthropometry to assess fluid removal in children receiving maintenance hemodialysis (HD).

METHODS

Participants completed US, BIS, and anthropometry immediately before and 1-2 h after HD for up to five sessions. US measured inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter, lung B-lines, muscle elastography, and dermal thickness. BIS measured the volume of extracellular (ECF) and intracellular (ICF) fluid. Anthropometry included mid-upper arm, calf and ankle circumferences, and triceps skinfold thickness. D₂O was performed once pre-HD. We assessed the change in study measures pre- versus post-HD, and the correlation of change in study measures with percent change in body weight (%∆BW). We also assessed the agreement between TBW measured by BIS and D₂O.

RESULTS

Eight participants aged 3.4-18.5 years were enrolled. Comparison of pre- and post-HD measures showed significant decrease in IVC diameters, lung B-lines, dermal thickness, BIS %ECF, mid-upper arm circumference, ankle, and calf circumference. Repeated measures correlation showed significant relationships between %∆BW and changes in BIS ECF (r_rm =0.51, 95% CI 0.04, 0.80) and calf circumference (r_rm=0.80, 95% CI 0.51, 0.92). BIS TBW correlated with D₂O TBW but overestimated TBW by 2.2 L (95% LOA, -4.75 to 0.42).

CONCLUSION

BIS and calf circumference may be helpful to assess changes in fluid status in children receiving maintenance HD. IVC diameter, lung B-lines and dermal thickness are potential candidates for future studies.

Effect of vitamin and mineral supplementation on nutritional status in children with chronic kidney disease: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Persistent kidney illness in children and those on dialysis therapy, risk of vitamin and mineral deficiencies due to abnormal renal metabolism, anorexia, inadequate intake, poor gastrointestinal absorption, drug-nutrient interaction, and dialysis-related losses. Adequate nutritional management is essential to achieve and maintain an optimal nutritional status for the usual pattern of growth, sexual and neurocognitive development, metabolic abnormalities, and ultimately reducing the risk of chronic mortality and morbidity in adulthood. The purpose of this paper is to describe a protocol for a systematic review to assess the effects of vitamin and mineral supplementation in children with chronic renal disease.

METHODS

This systematic review protocol is developed according to the Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P) as well as the Cochrane group guidelines. Comprehensive searching for all possible relevant works of literature- such as PubMed, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Science-Direct, Scopus, Research-Gate, Clinical Trials for all randomized controlled studies, full paper articles, and articles written in English will be considered. The primary outcome of this review will be measuring any changes (such as changes in body mass, BMI, and overall Z-score) in the nutritional status of the children (age < 18 years) with chronic kidney disease following vitamin and mineral supplementations. This review will help better understand the effects of vitamin and mineral supplementation to improve nutritional status in CKD children and will create a guideline to determine the applicability of these interventions in different feasible settings.

CONCLUSION

The systematic review protocol has been evaluated and approved by the institutional review board of North South University. Finding will be shared using traditional approaches, including scientific presentations, open-access peer-reviewed platforms.

PROSPERO REGISTERED NUMBER

CRD42022341339.

Plasma Netrin-1 & cardiovascular risk in children with end stage renal disease

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the most common cause of mortality and morbidity in children with end stage kidney disease (ESKD) which arises from the interaction of several risk factors. The aim of the study is to assess CV risk of ESKD children and outline the impact of KTX on this CV risk. Also valuate the relation between plasma Netrin-1, chronic inflammatory markers and CV risk. Methods: Sixty ESKD (30 on regular hemodialysis (HD), 30 recipients of kidney transplant (KTX)) were assessed using 24 hour AMBP assessment, laboratory (including lipid profile and markers of chronic inflammation namely N/L and HsCRP) and echocardiographic data. Plasma netrin-1 was assessed by ELISA technique for all patients. Results: showed significant higher prevalence of hypertension, higher number of patients with 24hrs BP> 95th percentile by ABPM, more prevalence of nocturnal non-dipping BP, higher percentage of obese and overweight patients, worse biochemical analysis, higher chance of medical calcification by higher Po4 and Ca X Po4, higher triglyceride level and lower HDL level and higher N/L in HD than KTX group. Significant inverse relation was detected between plasma netrin 1 and Hs CRP and between netrin 1 and N/L (p<0.001).

Leptin receptor and prolactin in pubertal disorders and chronic kidney disease

BACKGROUND

Knowledge of chronic kidney disease (CKD) with pubertal disorders (PD) in adolescent boys is limited as few studies have explored this disorder. This study aimed to identify the usefulness of assessing hormonal parameters in male adolescents with CKD and their correlation with PD in a 12-month follow-up period.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was conducted among male adolescents with CKD (stages IV and V). Data regarding the age at puberty onset were collected from the patients' clinical records and through interview. The patients were followed up for 12 months during their pubertal development. At the beginning, routine hormonal profile tests were performed to examine the patients' thyroid profile, prolactin levels, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, testosterone, leptin, and receptor leptin. The hormonal profiles of patients with and without PD were compared. Comparisons between the groups were performed using the Student t-test and Fisher's exact tests. Logistic regression analysis was also performed.

RESULTS

Data of 64 patients (26/64 with PD) were analyzed. The median age was 15 years and the median time for CKD evolution was 11 months. No differences between groups were noted in the general or biochemical characteristics of the patients. The hormonal parameters, prolactin levels were higher and the free leptin and free thyroxine levels were lower in patients with PD. Leptin receptor levels of >0.90 ng/mL (risk ratio [RR], 8.6; P = 0.004) and hyperprolactinemia (RR, 21.3; P = 0.049) were the risk factors for PD.

CONCLUSIONS

Leptin receptor levels of >0.90 ng/mL and hyperprolactinemia are associated with the development of PD in male adolescents with CKD.

Assessment of nutritional status in children with kidney diseases-clinical practice recommendations from the Pediatric Renal Nutrition Taskforce

In children with kidney diseases, an assessment of the child's growth and nutritional status is important to guide the dietary prescription. No single metric can comprehensively describe the nutrition status; therefore, a series of indices and tools are required for evaluation. The Pediatric Renal Nutrition Taskforce (PRNT) is an international team of pediatric renal dietitians and pediatric nephrologists who develop clinical practice recommendations (CPRs) for the nutritional management of children with kidney diseases. Herein, we present CPRs for nutritional assessment, including measurement of anthropometric and biochemical parameters and evaluation of dietary intake. The statements have been graded using the American Academy of Pediatrics grading matrix. Statements with a low grade or those that are opinion-based must be carefully considered and adapted to individual patient needs based on the clinical judgment of the treating physician and dietitian. Audit and research recommendations are provided. The CPRs will be periodically audited and updated by the PRNT.

Body Composition Analysis Techniques in Adult and Pediatric Patients: How Reliable are They? How Useful are they Clinically?

Complex abnormalities of body composition occur in peritoneal dialysis (PD). These abnormalities reflect changes in hydration, nutrition, and body fat, and they are of major clinical significance. Clinical assessment of these body compartments is insensitive and inaccurate. Frequently, simultaneous changes of hydration, wasting, and body fat content can occur, confounding clinical assessment of each component. Body composition can be described by models of varying complexity that use one or more measurement techniques. “Gold standard” methods provide accurate and precise data, but are not practical for routine clinical use. Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry allows for measurement of regional as well as whole-body composition, which can provide further information of clinical relevance. Simpler techniques such as anthropometry and bioelectrical impedance analysis are suited to routine use in clinic or at the bedside, but may be less accurate. Body composition methodology sometimes makes assumptions regarding relationships between components, particularly in regard to hydration, which may be invalid in pathologic states. Uncritical application of these methods to the PD patient may result in erroneous interpretation of results. Understanding the foundations and limitations of body composition techniques allows for optimal application in clinical practice.

Interleukine 6 and C-reactive protein predict growth impairment and acute malnutrition in children and adolescents with chronic kidney disease

Introduction

Objective: secondary malnutrition and systemic inflammation may impair growth and body composition in children and adolescents with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This association has been scantily studied, particularly in pre-dialytic stages. Our aim was to correlate growth and nutritional status indicators with the serum concentration of interleukine 6 (IL-6) and ultrasensitive C-reactive protein (CRP) in children with CKD. Methods: this was a prospective cross-sectional study in 29 children and adolescents aged 3-16 years with CKD, stages 3 or 4, in two third-level general hospitals. The outcome variables were height for age, body mass index, arm anthropometric indicators, plus lean mass/fat percentage by bioelectrical impedance. The independent variables were IL-6 and CRP. This study was reviewed and approved by the Health Research and Ethics Committees of both hospitals. Results: height for age, body mass index, subscapular skinfold, arm fat area, and lean mass had a significant negative correlation with IL-6. The height-for-age z-score had a negative correlation with CRP. IL-6 explained 15% to 35% of the variance in height for age and nutritional status indicators. CRP predicted 22% of height for age. One fifth of the patients had acute malnutrition, and one third were stunted. Muscle was the most affected compartment. Conclusion: IL-6 and CRP in children and adolescents with CKD in the pre-dialytic stage predicted one fifth and one third of the variance in acute and chronic malnutrition indicators. The frequency of acute malnutrition and impaired growth was clinically significant. Muscular mass deficit was a central component of malnutrition.

Nutrition in Children with Kidney Disease: Pitfalls of Popular Assessment Methods

Children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are considered at high risk for protein-energy malnutrition. Clinical practice guidelines generally recommend an evaluation of numerous nutritional parameters to give a complete and accurate picture of nutritional status. This review summarizes the potential limitations of commonly used methods of nutritional assessment in the setting of CKD. Unrecognized fluid overload and inappropriate normalization of body composition measures are the most important factors leading to misinterpretation of the nutritional assessment in CKD. The importance of expressing body composition measures relative to height or height-age in a population in whom short stature and pubertal delay are highly prevalent is emphasized. The limitations of growth as a marker for nutritional status are also addressed. In addition, the prevailing belief that children with CKD are at high risk for malnutrition is challenged.

Establishment of Z Score Reference of Growth Parameters for Egyptian School Children and Adolescents Aged From 5 to 19 Years: A Cross Sectional Study

Background: Growth charts are an important method for evaluating a child's health, growth, and nutritional status. Objective: To establish Lambda-Mu- Sigma (LMS) and Z score references for assessment of growth and nutritional status in Egyptian school children and adolescents. Methods: A total of 34,822 Egyptian school children and adolescents from 5 to 19 years were enrolled in a cross sectional randomized study from December 2017 to November 2019 to create LMS and Z score references for weight, height and body mass index (BMI) corresponding to ages. They were selected from different districts in Egypt. Apparent Healthy children with good nutritional history and not suffering from any chronic diseases were included in the study. Results: Egyptian children of both sexes (54.3% boys and 45.7 % girls) from 5 to 19 years old were studied. Then LMS and Z scores for weight for age, height for age, BMI for age of both sexes were represented in detailed tables and graphs. There was no statistically significant difference between the Egyptian Z score charts and the reference values of WHO for weight, height and BMI corresponding to age (P > 0.05). Conclusion: This is the first national reference for growth and nutritional assessment using LMS and Z score charts in Egyptian school children and adolescents, this tool is essential for healthcare and research.

Effects of Zinc Supplementation on Nutritional Status in Children with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND

Zinc is an essential micronutrient for human beings and its deficiency affects their normal growth and development.

OBJECTIVE

The main aim was to evaluate the effect of two doses of zinc supplementation (ZS) on the nutritional status in chronic kidney disease (CKD) children.

METHODS

A randomized-trial multicentric study was conducted in 48 CKD (23 females) patients under 18-years-old, for a year. At random, participants took 30 or 15 mg/day of ZS, respectively. Anthropometric measurements and biochemical analysis were performed. Hypozincemia was determined by serum zinc concentration (SZC) using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The positive or negative change in patients' body mass index (BMI) Z-score, serum albumin, zinc and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were used to evaluate the effect of ZS.

RESULTS

Mean SZC was normal before and after ZS. Despite ZS, there were no significant changes in serum albumin, zinc and CRP levels. A positive and significant association was observed between SZC and serum albumin before (p = 0.000) and after (p = 0.007) ZS. In both groups of ZS, there was a small but positive and significant change in body mass and normalization in BMI Z-score, hypoalbuminemia, hypozincemia and high CRP, especially with 30 mg/day of ZS.

CONCLUSIONS

Zinc supplementation may be beneficial for nutritional status in children and adolescents with CKD.

Evaluation of nutritional status and prognostic impact assessed by the prognostic nutritional index in children with chronic kidney disease

To evaluate the nutritional status of children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) before dialysis via a series of indexes, and investigate the prognostic impact of nutritional status in these patients assessed by the Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI).Fifty-four children with CKD before dialysis were enrolled in this study. The nutritional status was evaluated by different indexes, including dietary intake, anthropometry data and biochemical parameters. Additionally, PNI is calculated as 10 × serum albumin (g/dL) + 0.005 × lymphocyte count (/mm). Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of patients with different PNI scores was followed up.Thirty-four patients (63.0%) experienced unreasonable dietary intake, and the patients with CKD stage 4 were characterized by lower energy intake. The height was the most affected anthropometry parameter. Additionally, 46 patients (85.2%) suffered from anemia. The serum albumin of 42 patients (77.8%) was <35 g/L, while 34 cases (63.0%) had increased cholesterol and triglyceride. According to the PNI scores, the patients were divided into 3 groups: high-PNI (PNI ≥ 38), middle-PNI (35 ≤ PNI < 38), and low-PNI (PNI < 35). Of the 54 patients, the PNI was <35 in 29 (53.7%) and ≥38 in 13 (24.1%). The patients with CKD stage 4 were belonged to the low-PNI group. At follow-up, GFR decreased significantly in patients with low-PNI scores compared with the high-PNI group (P < .05).Malnutrition, as a common complication of CKD, has a prognostic impact in children with CKD before dialysis, as assessed by the PNI score.

Clinical practice recommendations for growth hormone treatment in children with chronic kidney disease

Achieving normal growth is one of the most challenging problems in the management of children with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Treatment with recombinant human growth hormone (GH) promotes longitudinal growth and likely enables children with CKD and short stature to reach normal adult height. Here, members of the European Society for Paediatric Nephrology (ESPN) CKD–Mineral and Bone Disorder (MBD), Dialysis and Transplantation working groups present clinical practice recommendations for the use of GH in children with CKD on dialysis and after renal transplantation. These recommendations have been developed with input from an external advisory group of paediatric endocrinologists, paediatric nephrologists and patient representatives. We recommend that children with stage 3–5 CKD or on dialysis should be candidates for GH therapy if they have persistent growth failure, defined as a height below the third percentile for age and sex and a height velocity below the twenty-fifth percentile, once other potentially treatable risk factors for growth failure have been adequately addressed and provided the child has growth potential. In children who have received a kidney transplant and fulfil the above growth criteria, we recommend initiation of GH therapy 1 year after transplantation if spontaneous catch-up growth does not occur and steroid-free immunosuppression is not a feasible option. GH should be given at dosages of 0.045–0.05 mg/kg per day by daily subcutaneous injections until the patient has reached their final height or until renal transplantation. In addition to providing treatment recommendations, a cost-effectiveness analysis is provided that might help guide decision-making.

This Evidence-Based Guideline developed by members of the European Society for Paediatric Nephrology CKD-MBD, Dialysis and Transplantation working groups presents clinical practice recommendations for the use of growth hormone in children with chronic kidney disease on dialysis and after renal transplantation.

Global Variation of Nutritional Status in Children Undergoing Chronic Peritoneal Dialysis: A Longitudinal Study of the International Pediatric Peritoneal Dialysis Network

While children approaching end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) are considered at risk of uremic anorexia and underweight they are also exposed to the global obesity epidemic. We sought to investigate the variation of nutritional status in children undergoing chronic peritoneal dialysis (CPD) around the globe. The distribution and course of body mass index (BMI) standard deviation score over time was examined prospectively in 1001 children and adolescents from 35 countries starting CPD who were followed in the International Pediatric PD Network (IPPN) Registry. The overall prevalence of underweight, and overweight/obesity at start of CPD was 8.9% and 19.7%, respectively. Underweight was most prevalent in South and Southeast Asia (20%), Central Europe (16.7%) and Turkey (15.2%), whereas overweight and obesity were most common in the Middle East (40%) and the US (33%). BMI SDS at PD initiation was associated positively with current eGFR and gastrostomy feeding prior to PD start. Over the course of PD BMI SDS tended to increase on CPD in underweight and normal weight children, whereas it decreased in initially overweight patients. In infancy, mortality risk was amplified by obesity, whereas in older children mortality was markedly increased in association with underweight. Both underweight and overweight are prevalent in pediatric ESKD, with the prevalence varying across the globe. Late dialysis start is associated with underweight, while enteral feeding can lead to obesity. Nutritional abnormalities tend to attenuate with time on dialysis. Mortality risk appears increased with obesity in infants and with underweight in older children.

Bioimpedance Spectroscopy Imprecisely Assesses Lean Body Mass in Pediatric Dialysis Patients

OBJECTIVES

Alterations in body compositions are strongly associated with poor outcomes in end-stage renal disease patients. Hence, assessment of lean body mass is crucial for clinically monitoring these patients. The use of multifrequency bioimpedance spectroscopy measurements has also been advocated, but their usefulness in children is questioned. We investigated whether their application is appropriate for lean body mass measurement in pediatric patients receiving chronic dialysis.

METHODS

Lean body mass estimates as assessed by multifrequency bioimpedance spectroscopy and by deuterium dilution were obtained for 15 patients (mean age 10.9 ± 3.6 years).

RESULTS

Lean body mass (mean ± standard deviation) determined by bioimpedance was 24.2 ± 10.7 and 24.4 ± 10.3 kg by deuterium technique. Bland-Altman analysis showed a mean (±standard deviation) difference between the 2 methods of -0.25 ± 2.30 kg with 95% limits of agreement of -4.80 to 4.25 kg. In a multiple linear regression model, the hydration status was associated with measurement bias after adjusting for age, sex, weight, and body surface area.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show a high level of agreement between measurements by bioimpedance and deuterium technique, but the limits of agreement were wide. These findings do not support the use of bioimpedance to individually assess lean body mass in pediatric dialysis patients with and without overhydration.

Postoperative complications following percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy are common in children

AIM

Inserting a feeding tube using percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy may be necessary to ensure that children with eating problems receive sufficient enteral nutrition. The aim of this study was to investigate the perioperative and postoperative complications of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy when the pull-through method was the standard procedure.

METHODS

This was a retrospective review of 229 children (50.7% male) who underwent a gastrostomy procedure at Odense University Hospital, Denmark, from January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2012. The median age of the children was 1.6 years (range: 0-14.9), and the follow-up period was 36 months. Complications were graded according to the Clavien-Dindo classification.

RESULTS

A total of 167 postoperative complications occurred in 118 of the 229 patients (51.5%). Of these, 89 were grade 1 complications, 49 were grade 2 complications, and 29 were grade 3b complications. No gastrostomy-related deaths were observed, and no single preoperative risk factor was identified. Perioperative complications were experienced by 2.6% of the patients.

CONCLUSION

Gastrostomy feeding tube placement was associated with a high rate of postoperative complications of various grades when the pull-through method was the standard procedure. A consensus on how to report and grade complications arising from this procedure is warranted.

Evaluation of Nutritional Status in Children during Predialysis, or Treated By Peritoneal Dialysis or Hemodialysis

OBJECTIVE

Malnutrition is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in children with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The objective of this study was to evaluate nutritional status of children with stage 3-4 CKD and treated by peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis using anthropometric measurements, biochemical parameters and bioelectrical impedance analysis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study included a total of 52 patients and 46 healthy children.

RESULTS

In anthropometric evaluation, the children with CKD had lower values for standard deviation score for weight, height, body mass index, skinfold thickness and mid-arm circumference than those of healthy children (p < 0.05). The fat mass (%) and the body cell mass (%) measurements performed by bioelectrical impedance analysis were lower compared with the control group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

It is considered that bioelectrical impedance analysis measurement should be used with anthropometric measurements, which are easy to perform, to achieve more accurate nutritional evaluation in children.

Bioelectric Impedance Analysis in the Diagnosis of Vesicoureteral Reflux

BACKGROUND

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is a common abnormality of the urinary tract in childhood.

OBJECTIVES

As urine enters the ureters and renal pelvis during voiding in vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), we hypothesized that change in body water composition before and after voiding may be less different in children with VUR.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients were grouped as those with VUR (Group 1) and without VUR (Group 2). Bioelectric impedance analysis was performed before and after voiding, and third space fluid (TSF) (L), percent of total body fluid (TBF%), extracellular fluid (ECF%), and intracellular fluid (ICF%) were recorded. After change of TSF, TBF, ECF, ICF (ΔTSF, ΔTBF%, ΔECF%, ΔICF%), urine volume (mL), and urine volume/body weight (mL/kg) were calculated. Groups 1 and 2 were compared for these parameters. In addition, pre- and post-voiding body fluid values were compared in each group.

RESULTS

TBF%, ECF%, ICF%, and TSF in both pre- and post-voiding states and ΔTBF%, ΔECF%, ΔICF%, and ΔTSF after voiding were not different between groups. However, while post-voiding TBF%, ECF% was significantly decreased in Group 1 (64.5 ± 8.1 vs 63.7 ± 7.2, P = 0.013 for TBF%), there was not post-voiding change in TSF in the same group. On the other hand, there was also a significant TSF decrease in Group 2.

CONCLUSIONS

Bladder and ureter can be considered as the third space. Thus, we think that BIA has been useful in discriminating children with VUR as there was no decreased in patients with VUR, although there was decreased TSF in patients without VUR. However, further studies are needed to increase the accuracy of this hypothesis.

Review of nutritional assessment and clinical outcomes in pediatric surgical patients: does preoperative nutritional assessment impact clinical outcomes?

INTRODUCTION

Malnourished adult patients who undergo surgical procedures tend to have worse clinical outcomes compared to well-nourished patients. In the pediatric surgical patient, nutritional assessment is considered a critical aspect of the initial evaluation, but a correlation between preoperative malnutrition and poor surgical outcomes is not clear. We hypothesized that an evidence-based review would reveal that measures of nutritional assessment in children would not correlate pre-operative malnutrition with poor surgical outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A search of major English language medical databases (Medline, Cochrane, SCOPUS) was conducted for the key words nutritional assessment, pediatric, children, surgery, and outcomes. All methods of nutritional assessment in pediatric surgery were evaluated for their relevance and relation to outcomes after surgery. The Oxford Center for Evidence Based Medicine (CEBM) classification for levels of evidence was used to develop grades of clinical recommendation for each variable studied.

RESULTS

35 articles were evaluated after an exhaustive literature search, of which six met inclusion criteria for this review. There is a paucity of high quality evidence correlating preoperative malnutrition in pediatric surgical patients with clinical outcomes. Factors contributing to the low level of evidence include a lack of high quality randomized controlled trials, a lack of consensus in study design and methods, and utilization of incongruous methods of nutritional assessment, including methods that may be unproven in the study population.

CONCLUSION

Larger multi center randomized studies are needed to offer higher level of evidence to support nutritional intervention prior to major elective pediatric surgery.

Underweight, overweight and obesity in paediatric dialysis and renal transplant patients

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of childhood overweight is rising worldwide, but in children on renal replacement therapy (RRT) a poor nutritional status is still the primary concern. We aimed to study the prevalence of, and factors associated with, underweight and overweight/obesity in the European paediatric RRT population. Moreover, we assessed the evolution of body mass index (BMI) after the start of RRT.

METHODS

We included 4474 patients younger than 16 years from 25 countries of whom BMI data, obtained between 1995 and 2010, were available within the European Society for Paediatric Nephrology/European Renal Association-European Dialysis and Transplant Association Registry. Prevalence estimates for under- and overweight/obesity were calculated using age and sex-specific criteria of the World Health Organization (WHO, 0-1 year olds) and the International Obesity Task Force cut-offs (2-15 year olds).

RESULTS

The prevalence of underweight was 3.5%, whereas 20.8% of the patients were overweight and 12.5% obese. Factors associated with being underweight were receiving dialysis treatment and infant age. Among transplanted recipients, a very short stature (OR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.40-1.92) and glucocorticoid treatment (OR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.03-1.47) were associated with a higher risk of being overweight/obese. BMI increased post-transplant, and a lower BMI and a higher age at the start of RRT were associated with greater BMI changes during RRT treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Overweight and obesity, rather than underweight, are highly prevalent in European children on RRT. Short stature among graft recipients had a strong association with overweight, while underweight appears to be only a problem in infants. Our findings suggest that nutritional management in children receiving RRT should focus as much on the prevention and treatment of overweight as on preventing malnutrition.

Measuring energy expenditure in clinical populations: rewards and challenges

The measurement of energy expenditure (EE) is recommended as an important component of comprehensive clinical nutrition assessments in patients with altered metabolic states, who failed to respond to nutrition support and with critical illness that require individualized nutrition support. There is evidence that EE is variable in patients with metabolic diseases, such as chronic renal disease, cirrhosis, HIV, cancer cachexia, cystic fibrosis and patients under intensive care. By using appropriate techniques and interpretations of basal or resting EE, clinicians can facilitate the adequate nutrition support with minimum negative impacts from under- or overfeeding in these patients. This review is based on our current understanding of the different components of EE and the techniques to measure them, and to re-examine advances and challenges to determine energy needs in clinical populations with more focuses on the obese, pediatric and elderly patients. In addition, technological advances have expanded the choices of market-available equipments for assessing EE, which also bring specific challenges and rewards in selecting the right equipment with specific performance criteria. Lastly, analytical considerations of interpreting the results of EE in the context of changing body composition are presented and discussed.

Nutrition in infants and very young children with chronic kidney disease

Provision of adequate nutrition is a cornerstone of the management of infants and very young children with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Very young children with CKD frequently have poor spontaneous nutritional intake. Because growth depends strongly on nutrition during early childhood, growth in very young children with CKD is often suboptimal. In this review we will consider the mechanisms and manifestations of inadequate nutritional status in very young children with CKD, mechanisms mediating inadequate nutritional intake, and the optimal nutritional management of this special population. In addition, we suggest an approach to the assessment of nutritional status, including the use of body mass index in infants. Five major nutritional components are considered: energy, macronutrients, fluids and electrolytes, micronutrients, and calcium/phosphorus/vitamin D. The use of adjunctive therapies, including appetite stimulants, treatment of gastroesophageal reflux and gastric dysmotility, enhanced dialytic clearance, and growth hormone, is also briefly discussed.

Use of national and international growth charts for studying height in European children: development of up-to-date European height-for-age charts

BACKGROUND

Growth charts based on data collected in different populations and time periods are key tools to assess children's linear growth. We analyzed the impact of geographic factors and the secular trend on height-for-age charts currently used in European populations, developed up-to-date European growth charts, and studied the effect of using different charts in a sample of growth retarded children.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

In an international survey we obtained 18 unique national height-for-age charts from 28 European countries and compared them with charts from the World Health Organization (WHO), Euro-Growth reference, and Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As an example, we obtained height data from 3,534 children with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) from 13 countries via the ESPN/ERA-EDTA registry, a patient group generally suffering from growth retardation. National growth charts showed a clear secular trend in height (mean height increased on average 0.6 cm/decade) and a North-South height gradient in Europe. For countries without a recent (>1990) national growth chart novel European growth charts were constructed from Northern and Southern European reference populations, reflecting geographic height differences in mean final height of 3.9 cm in boys and 3.8 cm in girls. Mean height SDS of 2- to 17-year-old ESRD patients calculated from recent national or derived European growth charts (-1.91, 95% CI: -1.97 to -1.85) was significantly lower than when using CDC or WHO growth charts (-1.55, 95% CI: -1.61 to -1.49) (P<0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Differences between height-for-age charts may reflect true population differences, but are also strongly affected by the secular trend in height. The choice of reference charts substantially affects the clinical decision whether a child is considered short-for-age. Therefore, we advocate using recent national or European height-for-age charts derived from recent national data when monitoring growth of healthy and diseased European children.

Interpretation of body mass index in children with CKD

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Clinical practice guidelines recommend that body mass index (BMI) in children with CKD be expressed relative to height-age (BMI-height-age-z) rather than chronologic age (BMI-age-z) to account for delayed growth and sexual maturation. This approach has not been validated. This study sought to (1) compare children who have CKD with healthy children regarding the relationships between BMI-age-z and each of relative lean mass (LM) and adiposity and (2) determine whether BMI-height-age-z reflects relative LM and adiposity in CKD in the same way that BMI-age-z does in healthy children.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

In a cross-sectional study, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry was used to assess whole-body fat mass (FM) and LM in 143 participants with CKD and 958 healthy participants (age, 5-21 years); FM and LM were expressed as sex-specific Z-scores relative to height (LM-height-z, FM-height-z), with healthy participants as the reference. BMI-age-z and BMI-height-age-z were determined using the 2000 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reference data.

RESULTS

Compared with healthy children of the same sex, age, race, and BMI-age-z, LM-height-z was significantly higher in males with all CKD stages (by 0.41-0.43 SDs) and in females with mild to moderate CKD (by 0.38 SD); FM-height-z was significantly higher in both males (by 0.26 SD) and females (by 0.52 SD) with severe CKD. Underestimation of relative LM and adiposity was improved by expressing BMI relative to height-age.

CONCLUSIONS

In children with CKD, BMI-height-age-z reflects relative LM and adiposity in the same way that BMI-age-z does in healthy children.

Cachexia and protein-energy wasting in children with chronic kidney disease

Children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at risk for "cachexia" or "protein-energy wasting" (PEW). These terms describe a pathophysiologic process resulting in the loss of muscle, with or without loss of fat, and involving maladaptive responses, including anorexia and elevated metabolic rate. PEW has been defined specifically in relation to CKD. We review the diagnostic criteria for cachexia and PEW in CKD and consider the limitations and applicability of these criteria to children with CKD. In addition, we present an overview of the manifestations and mechanisms of cachexia and PEW. A host of pathogenetic factors are considered, including systemic inflammation, endocrine perturbations, and abnormal neuropeptide signaling, as well as poor nutritional intake. Mortality risk, which is 100- to 200-fold higher in patients with end-stage renal disease than in the general population, is strongly correlated with the components of cachexia/PEW. Further research into the causes and consequences of wasting and growth retardation is needed in order to improve the survival and quality of life for children with CKD.

Association of chronic kidney disease with muscle deficits in children

The effect of chronic kidney disease (CKD) on muscle mass in children, independent of poor growth and delayed maturation, is not well understood. We sought to characterize whole body and regional lean mass (LM) and fat mass (FM) in children and adolescents with CKD and to identify correlates of LM deficits in CKD. We estimated LM and FM from dual energy x-ray absorptiometry scans in 143 children with CKD and 958 controls at two pediatric centers. We expressed whole body, trunk, and leg values of LM and FM as Z-scores relative to height, sitting height, and leg length, respectively, using the controls as the reference. We used multivariable regression models to compare Z-scores in CKD and controls, adjusted for age and maturation, and to identify correlates of LM Z-scores in CKD. Greater CKD severity associated with greater leg LM deficits. Compared with controls, leg LM Z-scores were similar in CKD stages 2 to 3 (difference: 0.02 [95% CI: -0.20, 0.24]; P = 0.8), but were lower in CKD stages 4 to 5 (-0.41 [-0.66, -0.15]; P = 0.002) and dialysis (-1.03 [-1.33, -0.74]; P < 0.0001). Among CKD participants, growth hormone therapy associated with greater leg LM Z-score (0.58 [0.03, 1.13]; P = 0.04), adjusted for CKD severity. Serum albumin, bicarbonate, and markers of inflammation did not associate with LM Z-scores. CKD associated with greater trunk LM and FM, variable whole body LM, and normal leg FM, compared with controls. In conclusion, advanced CKD associates with significant deficits in leg lean mass, indicating skeletal muscle wasting. These data call for prospective studies of interventions to improve muscle mass among children with CKD.

Bioelectrical impedance vector analysis to evaluate relative hydration status

The objective was to present our clinical experience with bioelectrical impedance vector analysis (BIVA). Forty-six patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) without oedema, 21 oedematous nephrotic children and 15 in remission from nephrotic syndrome were studied. The age range was 2-14 years. Data were obtained with the vector bioelectric impedance analysis method (Piccoli's RXc graph with 95% confidence ellipses) and compared with normal paediatric values. The mean vector position differs significantly among the groups of evaluated patients (Hotelling T(2) test, p < 0.05). Mean vector position along the 45 degrees direction (major axis of ellipses) indicates a progressive increase in body fluid volume from patients with CKD stage IV to stages II-III to patients in remission from nephrotic syndrome to oedematous subjects. We observed a progressive vector lengthening in children with severe renal disease (separate 95% confidence ellipse). This pattern indicates relative dehydration. BIVA represents a useful clinical tool that is able to detect changes in hydration.

Body composition, lipid and lipoprotein levels in childhood‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus

OBJECTIVES

Systemic inflammation, corticosteroid therapy, and reduced physical activity are risk factors for altered body composition in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aim of this study was to assess whether body composition differs between childhood-onset SLE patients and healthy controls, and to investigate the impact of disease characteristics and lifestyle factors on body fat mass, serum lipids, and lipoproteins.

METHODS

Fat mass and lean tissue mass were measured in a cross-sectional study of 68 childhood-onset SLE patients and 68 matched healthy controls by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). The influence of disease, glucocorticosteroids, disease activity and severity, physical activity, and dietary intake on fat mass was evaluated by multiple linear regression analysis. Serum lipid and lipoprotein levels were measured.

RESULTS

Patients had a significantly higher fat mass [mean (SD) 35.3 (10.8) vs. 30.9 (11.1)%; p = 0.024] and lower lean mass [39.7 (9.8) vs. 44.4 (1.5) kg; p = 0.003] than controls. Corticosteroid use and the disease itself were significant independent predictors of greater fat mass, while disease activity, physical activity, and dietary intake had only a minor influence. Mean high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and apolipoprotein A1 (apo A1) levels were significantly lower (p<0.001), and the mean apo B/apo A1 ratio significantly higher (p = 0.004), in patients than in controls.

CONCLUSION

Childhood-onset SLE patients had a higher fat mass and lower lean mass than healthy controls and corticosteroid use was an independent predictor of increased fat mass. Patients had a more proatherogenic lipid profile, which will contribute to the increased risk of coronary heart disease in SLE patients.

Nutrition aspects in children receiving maintenance hemodialysis: impact on outcome

Children with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) have rates of mortality estimated to be 30-times higher than expected for age compared with those of healthy children. Physical manifestations of under-nutrition, such as body mass index (BMI) and low height standard deviation score (SDS), have been associated with increased risk of mortality. Traditional measures, such as height, weight and serum albumin concentration, may not be accurate indicators to assess the nutritional status of children receiving maintenance hemodialysis. Normalized protein catabolic rate (nPCR) has emerged as a better marker of nutritional status of such children. Meeting the special nutritional needs of these children often requires nutritional supplementation, by either the enteral or the parenteral route. Recently, in children receiving maintenance hemodialysis who are malnourished, intradialytic parenteral nutrition (IDPN) has been utilized as a means to provide additional protein and calories. This article is a state-of-the-art review of malnutrition in children receiving maintenance hemodialysis, with special focus on outcome, nPCR and IDPN.

Nutrition assessment and management in children on peritoneal dialysis

Protein-calorie malnutrition, otherwise known as cachexia, is a common problem in children undergoing chronic peritoneal dialysis (PD) and is a frequent source of significant morbidity and mortality. Recent evidence suggests that the main factors involved in the pathogenesis are metabolic acidosis, a decreased response to anabolic hormones, and chronic inflammation, associated with hormonal imbalances and an increased metabolic rate. Given the complexity and multifactorial nature of cachexia, the assessment of nutritional status in children on PD requires a complete history and physical examination; assessment of dietary intake, biochemical indices, and anthropometry; and possibly bioimpedance analysis and combined score systems. Its management should likewise be multidisciplinary and include ensuring an adequate energy and protein intake; optimal metabolic control, with the correction of acidosis, anaemia, and hyperparathyroidism; an optimal (or at least adequate) dialysis dose; and, if necessary, prescription of specific drugs such as recombinant human growth hormone.

[Nutritional risk and malnutrition determination by anthropometry in cirrhotic children and adolescents]

BACKGROUND

The malnutrition is a frequent finding in adults with cirrhosis, but the prevalence of nutritional risk and malnutrition is little known in pediatric patients.

AIM

To evaluate through anthropometry the presence of nutritional risk and malnutrition in cirrhotic pediatric patients regularly attended at the Pediatric Gastroenterology Service of "Hospital de Clínicas" of Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study with 42 cirrhotic children and adolescents aged between 3 months and 18 years. The nutritional evaluation was made by the determination of the weight/age, height/age, body mass index and triceps skinfold thickness and arm muscle circumference measurements. Patients considered in nutritional risk were < or = -1,28 Z score which corresponds to < or = 10th percentile, and those under -2,0 Z and < or = 3th percentile were in malnutrition status. According to Child-Pugh criteria, 22 patients were classified as A (mild severity), 15 (moderate) B and 5 C (intense).

RESULTS

The mean weight/age, height/age and body mass index Z scores were, respectively, - 0,38 +/- 1,4 SD, - 0,83 +/- 1,16 SD and 0,17 +/- 1,3 SD. Patients in nutritional risk were 3/42 (weight/age), 8/42 (height/age), 12/37 (triceps skinfold thickness), 9/37 (arm muscle circumference), 2/38 (body mass index); in malnutrition status were 6/42 (weight/age), 7/42 (height/age), 4/37 (triceps skinfold thickness) and 4/37 (arm muscle circumference) and 3/38 (body mass index).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of nutritional risk was 32.4% and chronic malnutrition was 16.7%. The index which better reflected the nutritional risk in these patients was triceps skinfold thickness. Chronic malnutrition status occurrence was greater in the height/age index.

Evaluation of lean body mass in obese children

Multiple skinfold anthropometry (MSA) and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) are useful as clinically non-invasive, inexpensive and portable techniques, although it is not clear if they can be used interchangeably in the same patient to routinely assess her/his body composition. In order to compare BIA, MSA and DXA in the estimation of lean body mass (LBM) of a pediatric obese population, 103 obese [body mass index (BMI) > 97th percentile] children (median age: 11 years; range: 5.4-16.7 years) underwent nutritional evaluation. After an overnight fast, the subjects' anthropometric measurements were performed by the same investigator: body weight (BW), height, skinfold thickness (four sites); fat body mass (FBM) using Brook or Durnin equations and dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). BIA was performed using a bioelectrical impedance analyzer (Analicor-Eugedia, 50 kHz) and Houtkooper's equation to calculate LBM. Linear regression analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between the prediction of LBM by MSA, DXA and BIA. The differences between the three techniques were analysed using Student's t-test for paired observations and the Bland and Altmann method. A considerable lack of agreement was observed between DXA- and BIA-LBM (delta = -4.37 kg LBM; delta-2sigma = -11.6 kg LBM; delta+2sigma = +2.8 kg LBM); between DXA- and MSA-LBM (delta = -1.72 kg LBM; delta-2sigma = -8.2 kg LBM; delta+2sigma = +4.8 kg LBM) and between BIA- and MSA-LBM (delta = -2.65 kg LBM; delta-2sigma = -10.5 kg LBM; delta+2sigma = +5.2 kg LBM).

CONCLUSION

In obese children, DXA, BIA and MSA should not be used interchangeably in the assessment of LBM because of an unacceptable lack of agreement between them. The discrepancies between methods increase with the degree of obesity.

Bone status in juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus

Osteoporosis is a well-recognized major health problem in adult patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Children and adolescents with SLE, however are at even higher risk of developing osteoporosis later in life, since they develop the disease before achieving peak bone mass, which serves as a 'bone bank' for the rest of life. There is still a paucity of studies on bone mass in pediatric SLE, but those studies available provide evidence of reduced bone mass in this age group. A frequency of osteopenia of 40% measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry at one or more skeletal sites has been reported, and the lumbar spine is most seriously affected. Peak bone mass seems to be lower in childhood-onset SLE patients compared to healthy controls, and there are no signs of catch-up of bone mass in young adult patients with a history of pediatric SLE. Glucocorticoid therapy has been found to have a major negative effect on bone mass in these patients, thus the importance of keeping corticosteroid doses down to the lowest possible dose whenever possible. Interestingly, studies of oral alendronate therapy in children with rheumatic childhood diseases have shown promising results with increases of 15-33% during one year of treatment with no major side effects reported. Finally, there is a hope that new biologic therapies, which are more specific and steroid-sparing, will also have a beneficial effect on bone health in SLE in the future.

Nutrition in children with CRF and on dialysis

The objectives of this study are: (1) to understand the importance of nutrition in normal growth; (2) to review the methods of assessing nutritional status; (3) to review the dietary requirements of normal children throughout childhood, including protein, energy, vitamins and minerals; (4) to review recommendations for the nutritional requirements of children with chronic renal failure (CRF) and on dialysis; (5) to review reports of spontaneous nutritional intake in children with CRF and on dialysis; (6) to review the epidemiology of nutritional disturbances in renal disease, including height, weight and body composition; (7) to review the pathological mechanisms underlying poor appetite, abnormal metabolic rate and endocrine disturbances in renal disease; (8) to review the evidence for the benefit of dietetic input, dietary supplementation, nasogastric and gastrostomy feeds and intradialytic nutrition; (9) to review the effect of dialysis adequacy on nutrition; (10) to review the effect of nutrition on outcome.

The malnutrition and inflammation axis in pediatric patients with chronic kidney disease

Malnutrition and inflammation are closely linked in adult chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients and are both related to poor outcome, but data on pediatric patients are lacking. To describe the prevalence of inflammation, evaluate nutritional status, their correlation to each other, and their possible determinants in pediatric patients with CKD in predialysis, on hemodialysis (HD), and peritoneal dialysis (PD) who were submitted to demographic, nutritional, and inflammatory evaluations. Patients' nutritional status was evaluated according to anthropometric parameters and body composition assessed by measurements of skinfold thickness and bioelectrical impedance. Inflammation was assessed by measurement of highly sensitive C-reactive protein (CRP), ferritin, and albumin. Patients with CRP > 1 mg/l were considered inflamed. Sixty-four pediatric patients (mean age 9 +/- 4 years-, 40% on HD, 22% on PD, and 38% predialysis) were studied. Mean CRP concentration was 3.4 +/- 6.5 mg/l (median 0.78 mg/l, range 0.78-33.4 mg/l), and 41% presented CRP levels above 1 mg/l. Mean ferritin was 148 +/- 197 mg/dl and was above the normal reference values in 28% of patients. On the other hand, mean albumin was 3.9 +/- 0.5 mg/dl, below reference value in only 13% of patients. A larger proportion of HD patients (52%) were inflamed compared with those on PD (31%; p < 0.05). Malnutrition prevalence varied from 5% to 65% according to the method used. While inflamed patients presented lower serum bicarbonate and were on HD for a longer time, there were no consistent associations between malnutrition and inflammation. Inflammation is highly prevalent in the pediatric CKD population and was not consistently related to malnutrition. Other risk factors linked to high mortality and morbidity (acidosis and longer time on dialysis) were associated with inflammation. Prospective studies will need to analyze the predictive value of inflammation and malnutrition markers in the pediatric CKD population.

Nutrition assessment and hormonal influences on body composition in children with chronic kidney disease

Malnutrition is a serious complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the pediatric population. Management of the nutritional status of children presents the challenge of ensuring sufficient energy to promote linear growth, development of brain and organs, and maintenance of appropriate fat and muscle stores, while preventing excess protein intake and controlling electrolytes. Aggressive nutrition intervention in the early stages of CKD may be critical in the prevention of more serious complications further in the disease process. Nutrition assessment involves analysis of dietary intake, anthropometric parameters, and laboratory data. Currently, no guidelines are available for nutritional management of pediatric patients with CKD before the onset of dialysis. The content and algorithms in this article are intended to serve as a guide in the management of the nutritional status of children with CKD. Although adequate calorie and protein intake is critical in prevention of malnutrition, it is only part of a complex mechanism in the development of cachexia in CKD. Research suggests that the effects of inflammatory cytokines and hormones such as leptin and ghrelin play a role in the development of malnutrition in CKD. As a more thorough understanding of this mechanism emerges, new treatments aimed at inhibiting cachexia can be developed.

Pediatric renal transplantation with mycophenolate mofetil immunosuppression in a single center from Mexico

An MMF-based immunosuppression has reduced the acute rejection rate in adults and in children in the early post-transplantation period. In the present study, pediatric renal transplantation patients on a CyA, MMF, and steroids regimen were prospectively evaluated. Patients with CyA, MMF, and steroid therapy without antibody induction were evaluated for surgical aspects, renal function, rejection, and survival, growth after transplantation, adverse events and medication discontinuation. Between February 2003 and May 2005, 21 kidney transplantation patients under 18 yr old were followed for at least 12 months. Within one year after transplantation, three patients developed four episodes of acute rejection (19%). Graft loss because of rejection occurred in one patient. One-year mean serum creatinine was 1.19 +/- 0.3 mg/dL. Mean calculated CrCl by Schwartz formula was 82.3 +/- 19.7 mL/min*1.73 m(2). Major adverse events included infections of the urinary tract and diarrhea, abdominal pain, and GI symptoms. No patients have discontinued the use of MMF. Good results in pediatric kidney transplantation can be achieved by using CyA/MMF/steroids. MMF is effective and relatively safe in reducing the incidence of acute rejection even without induction therapy 12 months after transplantation.

Outcomes for Adolescent Hispanic Hemodialysis Patients: Findings From the ESRD Clinical Performance Measures Project

BACKGROUND

There is limited information regarding outcomes of dialytic care for Hispanic adolescent hemodialysis patients.

METHODS

Ethnicity information was collected for all adolescent in-center hemodialysis patients for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services 2000 End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Clinical Performance Measures Project. Associations between intermediate outcomes and Hispanic ethnicity were determined. Associations of ethnicity and other demographic/clinical variables with hospitalization and transplantation during the 12-month follow-up period were examined.

RESULTS

Twenty-two percent of patients were identified as Hispanic; 40%, as non-Hispanic black; and 32%, as non-Hispanic white. Hispanic patients were younger and more likely to have congenital/urological causes of ESRD. More Hispanic patients had a mean single-pool Kt/V of 1.2 or greater compared with non-Hispanic blacks and non-Hispanic whites (87% versus 73% and 79%; P = 0.036). More Hispanic patients had a mean serum albumin level of 3.5/3.2 g/dL (bromcresol green/bromcresol purple method) or greater (> or = 35/32 g/L; 91% versus 82% and 76%; P = 0.017). More Hispanic patients compared with non-Hispanic blacks and non-Hispanic whites were dialyzed with a catheter for 90 days or longer (30% versus 21% and 23%; P = 0.027). In the final multivariate Cox proportional hazard models, Hispanic patients were at a slightly decreased risk for hospitalization compared with non-Hispanics (adjusted hazard ratio [adjHR], 0.63; P = 0.031) and were as likely to undergo a first transplantation as non-Hispanic whites (adjHR, 0.56; P = 0.099).

CONCLUSION

Adolescent Hispanic hemodialysis patients experience equivalent or better intermediate outcomes of dialytic care than non-Hispanics. They experienced a decreased risk for subsequent hospitalization and are as likely to undergo transplantation within 12 months as non-Hispanic whites.

Anthropometric Prediction of Total Body Water in Children Who Are on Pediatric Peritoneal Dialysis

Accurate estimation of total body water (TBW) is a critical component of dialysis prescription in peritoneal dialysis (PD). Gold-standard isotope dilution techniques are laborious and costly; therefore, anthropometric prediction equations that are based on height and weight are commonly used to estimate TBW. Equations have been established in healthy populations, but their validity is unclear in children who undergo PD, in whom altered states of hydration and other confounding alterations in normal physiology, particularly retarded growth and pubertal delay, may exist. TBW was measured by heavy water (H2O18 or D2O) dilution in 64 pediatric patients who were aged 1 mo to 23 yr and receiving chronic PD in the United States and Germany to establish and validate population-specific anthropometric TBW prediction equations and to compare the predictive power of these equations with formulas that have been established in healthy children. The best-fitting equations are as follows: For boys, TBW = 0.10 x (HtWt)0.68 - 0.37 x weight; for girls, TBW = 0.14 x (HtWt)0.64 - 0.35 x weight. The height x weight parameter also predicts body surface area (BSA). These equations can be simplified, with slightly less precision, to the following: For boys, TBW = 20.88 x BSA - 4.29; for girls, TBW = 16.92 x BSA - 1.81. TBW is predicted without systematic deviations and equally well in boys and girls, North American and European, obese and nonobese, growth-retarded and normally sized, and pre- and postpubertal children. In contrast, previous anthropometric equations that were derived from healthy children systematically overpredicted TBW and were less precise in this pediatric PD population. In summary, a new set of anthropometric TBW prediction equations that are suited specifically for use in pediatric PD patients have been provided.

Growth and nutrition in children with chronic kidney disease

Growth failure remains an important problem for children with kidney disease secondary to medical kidney disease or urologic disorders. In children with chronic kidney disease, growth remains suboptimal even with energy intake above 80% of the recommend daily allowance. Adults who had chronic kidney disease as children frequently report dissatisfaction with final adult height. Additionally, growth failure in children with end-stage renal disease is associated with adverse clinical outcomes, including more frequent hospitalizations and increased mortality. This review describes the prevalence and morbidity associated with growth retardation in US children with chronic kidney disease. Additionally, available strategies to optimize growth and nutrition and current controversies in nutritional management and assessment of nutritional status in children with chronic kidney disease are discussed.