Background: One of the heterogenous chronic diseases affecting the kidneys is chronic kidney disease (CKD). Patients with chronic renal disease, which is associated with high morbidity and mortality, are more likely to experience nervous system problems.
Objective: This work was performed to estimate the prevalence and predictors of peripheral neuropathy in children with end stage renal disease (ESRD) on hemodialysis.
Methods: A total of 80 Egyptian children were recruited and divided into 2 separate groups. As a first step, a case group of 40 children (5-18 years old) with ESRD who were receiving regular hemodialysis was established. Besides the control group of 40 healthy children matched by age and gender to the cases group. We subjected all the participants to detailed history taking stressing on duration of dialysis, family history of renal diseases, consanguinity and history of neuro muscular symptoms such as distal paresthesia, or muscle weakness. General examination for weight, height, blood pressure, vital signs, systemic examination including: Heart examination, chest, abdominal and neurological examination. Routine laboratory investigations, and nerve conduction studies were done.
Results: We found a statistically significant difference weight and height between the two studied groups. 40% of patients had polyneuropathy. Multivariate analysis showed that longer disease duration (7 years), high parathyroid hormone level and high ferritin were independent predictors of polyneuropathy.
Conclusion:
Peripheral neuropathy is a common complication among children with end stage renal disease. Longer dialysis duration, high ferritin and parathormone levels were considered strong predictors of polyneuropathy among CKD patients.