Methods of controlling hyperphosphatemia in patients with chronic renal failure.

The problem of hyperphosphatemia in patients with chronic renal failure is reviewed. The importance of high plasma phosphorus levels in the pathogenesis of hyperparathyroidism is concisely discussed. Basic concepts about phosphorus metabolism in normal persons and in patients with chronic renal failure are outlined.

Current advances in the therapy of secondary hyperparathyroidism and osteitis fibrosa.

Secondary hyperparathyroidism is commonly observed in dialysic patients. Recent observations demonstrate a direct inhibitory effect of calcitriol on parathyroid hormone (PTH) synthesis and secretion. These observations may have important clinical and therapeutical implications.

Peritoneal dialysis in renal failure associated with spinal cord injury.

Nine patients with chronic renal failure associated with long-standing spinal cord injury were treated with peritoneal dialysis for periods ranging from 3 days to 12 months. Indwelling peritoneal catheters and automated peritoneal dialysis machines were used in the majority of cases. The procedure was generally used as an interim measure while awaiting placement or maturation of the blood access for hemodialysis.

Lipid abnormalities in chronic renal failure associated with spinal cord injury.

Serum lipid fractions were studied in ten patients with chronic renal failure (CRF) associated with long-standing spinal cord injury (SCI). A group of age-and-sex-matched patients with long-standing SCI but normal renal function were included for comparison. Serum triglycerides were markedly elevated in SCI-CRF patients.

Hematologic features of chronic renal failure associated with spinal cord injury.

We examined the available hematologic data on 43 spinal cord injury (SCI) patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) treated with hemodialysis since 1972. A control group consisting of 45 ESRD patients without SCI was included for comparison. Moderate to severe anemia was found in all patients.