The Incidence and Severity of Pulmonary Hypertension among Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease

Purpose: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major health problem and is closely linked with cardiovascular disease. Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is considered a common comorbidity in CKD patients. This study aimed at assessing the correlation between CKD and pulmonary hypertension. Methodology: This is a retrospective study that recruited 100 Egyptian patients with stage 3 and above Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) (KDOQI guidelines). The study sample was composed of 100 patients with 60% overall prevalence of PH. Transthoracic echo Doppler study was performed to measure pulmonary artery systolic pressure based on tricuspid jet in the sample. Findings: There was significant association between PH and severity of renal disease. The hemodialysed group showed a higher prevalence of PH with a more severe PH compared to groups not on regular dialysis. The study had provided evidence that PH is a common comorbidity in CKD patients and is directly proportional with the stage and duration of CKD. Recommendations: Pulmonary hypertension should be regularly assessed using echocardiography in CKD patients specially those on regular dialysis.