Relationship between vascular calcification, arterial stiffness and bone mineral density in a cross-sectional study of prevalent Australian haemodialysis patients - NIGEL D TOUSSAINT, KENNETH K LAU, BOYD J STRAUSS, KEVAN R POLKINGHORNE, PETER G KERR
Link to full text article. Nephrology - 14:1:105-112 - February 2009
Increased VC and reduced arterial compliance, both closely related, are common in Australian HD patients. Both are associated with diabetes and increasing age, and greater aortic VC is seen with longer duration of dialysis.
Calcimimetics in the chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder - Jordi Bover, Armando Aguilar, Juan P. Baas, Joselyne Reyes, Maria-J. Lloret, Neus Farré, Mayte Olaya, Cristina Canal, Helena Marco, Enric Andrés, Pedro Trinidad, José Ballarin
Link to abstract. International Journal of Artificial Organs - 32:2:108-121 - February 2009
This review summarizes the most significant aspects of calcimimimetics based on both experimental and clinical results, underlining their possibilities not only for the treatment of isolated SHPT but also for other CKD-MBD related conditions.
Vitamin D: Physiology and pathophysiology - Maurizio Gallieni, Mario Cozzolino, Giuditta Fallabrino, Sabina Pasho, Laura Olivi, Diego Brancaccio
Link to abstract. International Journal of Artificial Organs - 32:2:87-94 - February 2009
In this review article we summarize the basic concepts regarding vitamin D metabolism, transport, and genomic activity through the vitamin D receptor, facilitating activation or suppression of target genes. We also examine non-genomic actions, biological responses to vitamin D in classic target organs (intestine, bone, kidneys, and parathyroid glands), and in organs and tissues not related to mineral homeostasis.
Pathogenesis of secondary hyperparathyroidism - Mario Cozzolino, Sabina Pasho, Giuditta Fallabrino, Laura Olivi, Maurizio Gallieni, Diego Brancaccio
Link to abstract. International Journal of Artificial Organs - 32:2:75-80 - February 2009
During the last ten years, new molecular mechanisms have been investigated to better understand the pathogenesis of SHPT: the emerging role of the Calcium Sensing Receptor (CaSR); the importance of the parathyroid expression of the Vitamin D receptor (VDR); the growing evidence on the central role of the Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 (FGF-23). In contrast, the discovery of a parathyroid phosphate sensor or receptor has yet to be made.
Coagulation meets calcification: The vitamin K system - Thilo Krueger, Ralf Westenfeld, Leon J. Schurgers, Vincent M. Brandenburg
Link to abstract. International Journal of Artificial Organs - 32:2:67-74 - February 2009
Vitamin K deficiency impairs the physiological function of osteocalcin and MGP and, therefore, presumably contributes to bone demineralisation and vascular calcification (the so-called calcification paradox). In this context, the usage of vitamin K antagonists for long-term oral anticoagulation therapy might be risky especially in CKD patients exhibiting a high background level of vascular calcification. We present a summary of data describing the potential role of vitamin K deficiency and supplementation in bone and vascular disease in patients with CKD or ESRD.
Consequences of Chronic Kidney Disease - Mineral and Bone Disorder: A Progressive Disease - Katherine R. Smith and Sara C. Smelt
Link to full text article. (pdf format requires Adobe Acrobat reader) Nephrology Nursing Journal - 36:1:49 - January/February 2009
CKD-MBD is associated with a wide variety of potentially devastating clinical complications that can impair quality of life and increase the risk of mortality. Despite the risks associated with uncontrolled CKD-MBD, most patients on dialysis do not attain the target levels for PTH, calcium, phosphorus, and Ca x P recommended by KDOQI. The progressive nature of CKD-MBD highlights the need for more aggressive medical attention to simultaneously achieve recommended targets for iPTH, calcium, phosphorous, and CaXP, thereby increasing. the likelihood of arresting progression.
