Uremic pruritus among adults on dialysis in the French speaking part of Switzerland: a multicenter study

Background

Chronic Kidney Disease Associated Pruritus (CKD-aP) represents a common skin itch symptom occurring in patients on dialysis. The prevalence of CKD-aP in adults on dialysis varies between countries ranging between 20-42%. Swiss data on CKD-aP are lacking, as Switzerland is not part of large registries, such as DOPPS. The aging population, diabetes (69% by 2030), hypertension (60% by 2025) and poly-morbidity may soon lead to an increase in the number of patients on dialysis and subsequent CKD-aP. CKD-aP is associated with sleep disturbances, compromised Quality of Life (QoL), emotional distress, increased risks of hospitalization and death. CKD-aP management lacks approaches that are supported by strong evidence because its pathogenesis remains poorly understood. It may be related to an increase in uremic toxins and skin microinflammation. In this context, sweat composition deserves more attention.

Aim of the study The aim of the study is to determine the prevalence of CKD-aP in the population on dialysis, the association between CKD-aP and different electrolytes, and the potential role of the composition of sweat in CKD-aP.

Method

A cross-sectional design will be used to determine the prevalence of CKD-aP and an observational case-control design to determine the associations between CKD-aP and skin electrolytes, and urea.

Discussion

Results will be used for building a CKD-aP symptom management program to improve the quality of care of patients on dialysis and will be incorporated in the nursing continuing education program.

• Vifor AG

• CHUV - Centre Hôspitalier Universitaire Vaudois - Service de néphrologie
• Vifor AG