[Peritoneal dialysis in the Lazio region: results from 2017 regional audit].

In 2011, a first peritoneal dialysis audit was held in the Lazio region to analyze the problems hindering the spread of this method and to improve the quality of care through the sharing of best practices across Centers. A scientific board was therefore set up, representing all the Centers offering PD, in order to assess clinical effectiveness using KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) and to quantify the objectives to be achieved. The analysis made it possible to identify the main problems and take action, all the while monitoring progress through KPIs.

Effectiveness of Switch to Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agent (ESA) Biosimilars versus Maintenance of ESA Originators in the Real-Life Setting: Matched-Control Study in Hemodialysis Patients.

Background: In hemodialysis (HD), switching from erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) originators to biosimilars is associated with the need for doses approximately 10% higher, according to industry-driven studies.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy on anemia control of switching from ESA originators to biosimilars in daily clinical practice.

Methods: We retrospectively selected consecutive HD patients receiving stable intravenous ESA doses, and who had not been transfused in the previous 6 months, from 12 non-profit Italian centers.

Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients: From Pathophysiology to Treatment.

Cardiovascular diseases represent the main causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). According to a well-established classification, cardiovascular involvement in CKD can be set in the context of cardiorenal syndrome type 4. Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) represents a key feature to provide an accurate picture of systolic-diastolic left heart involvement in CKD patients.

Fibroblast growth factor 23 and parathyroid hormone predict extent of aortic valve calcifications in patients with mild to moderate chronic kidney disease.

Background: Cardiac valve calcifications are present in dialysis patients and regarded as dependent on a deranged mineral metabolism. Few data are available for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) not on dialysis. This study evaluates the potential association between the extent of cardiac valve calcification and levels of intact parathyroid hormone (i-PTH), phosphorus, calcium, 25-OH vitamin D, fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23), Klotho and C-reactive protein (CRP) simultaneously measured in patients with mild to moderate CKD.