Background: The global epidemiology of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) reflects each nation’s unique genetic, environmental, lifestyle, and sociodemographic characteristics. The response to ESKD, particularly regarding kidney replacement therapy (KRT), depends on local disease burden, culture, and socioeconomics. Here, we explore geographic variation and global trends in ESKD incidence and prevalence and examine variations in KRT modality, practice patterns, and mortality. We conclude with a discussion on disparities in access to KRT and strategies to reduce ESKD global burden and to improve access to treatment in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Summary: From 2003 to 2016, incidence rates of treated ESKD were relatively stable in many higher income countries but rose substantially predominantly in East and Southeast Asia. The prevalence of treated ESKD has increased worldwide, likely due to improving ESKD survival, population demographic shifts, higher prevalence of ESKD risk factors, and increasing KRT access in countries with growing economies. Unadjusted 5-year survival of ESKD patients on KRT was 41% in the USA, 48% in Europe, and 60% in Japan. Dialysis is the predominant KRT in most countries, with hemodialysis being the most common modality. Variations in dialysis practice patterns account for some of the differences in survival outcomes globally. Worldwide, there is a greater prevalence of KRT at higher income levels, and the number of people who die prematurely because of lack of KRT access is estimated at up to 3 times higher than the number who receive treatment. Key Messages: Many people worldwide in need of KRT as a life-sustaining treatment do not receive it, mostly in LMICs where health care resources are severely limited. This large treatment gap demands a focus on population-based prevention strategies and development of affordable and cost-effective KRT. Achieving global equity in KRT access will require concerted efforts in advocating effective public policy, health care delivery, workforce capacity, education, research, and support from the government, private sector, nongovernmental, and professional organizations.

BackgroundCirculating serum autoantibodies against the M-type phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R-AB) are a key biomarker in the diagnosis and monitoring of primary membranous nephropathy (MN). However, little is known about the appearance and trajectory of PLA2R-AB before the clinical diagnosis of MN.MethodsUsing the Department of Defense Serum Repository, we analyzed PLA2R-AB in multiple, 1054 longitudinal serum samples collected before diagnosis of MN from 134 individuals with primary MN, 35 individuals with secondary MN, and 134 healthy volunteers. We evaluated the presence and timing of non-nephrotic range proteinuria (NNRP) and serum albumin measurements in relation to PLA2R-AB status.ResultsAnalysis of PLA2R-AB in longitudinal serum samples revealed seropositivity in 44% (59 out of 134) of primary MN cases, 3% (one out of 35) of secondary MN cases, and in 0% of healthy controls. Among patients with MN, PLA2R-AB were detectable at a median of 274 days before renal biopsy diagnosis (interquartile range, 71–821 days). Approximately one third of the participants became seropositive within 3 months of MN diagnosis. Of the 21 individuals with documented prediagnostic NNRP, 43% (nine out of 21) were seropositive before NNRP was first documented and 28.5% (six out of 21) were seropositive at the same time as NNRP; 66% (39 out of 59) of those seropositive for PLA2R-AB had hypoalbuminemia present at the time antibody was initially detected. Twelve participants (20%) were seropositive before hypoalbuminemia became apparent, and eight participants (14%) were seropositive after hypoalbuminemia became apparent.ConclusionsCirculating PLA2R-AB are detectable months to years before documented NNRP and biopsy-proven diagnosis in patients with MN.

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