Exploring the possible therapeutic role of influenza vaccine in chronic kidney disease patients

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an irreversible change in kidney function and structure with a prevalence of about 9.1% worldwide. Toxins and heavy metal exposure, as well as hypertension and diabetes mellitus, are common causes of CKD. Despite extensive therapeutic options such as renal replacement therapy and renal transplants, most changes in kidney function remain irreversible, causing lifelong morbidity and affecting the quality of life of patients. Increased susceptibility to infections as well as serious complications from influenza, is a major cause of concern in nephrological care. Therefore, it is imperative to consider the protective role of influenza vaccination against seasonal influenza, which can worsen preexisting kidney dysfunction. This commentary explores a possible relationship between the influenza vaccine and patient outcomes in CKD in terms of complications, hospitalization, and possibly prognostic improvements in patient outcomes from CKD.

Influenza vaccination for elderly, vulnerable and high-risk subjects: a narrative review and expert opinion

“…Overall, immunogenicity studies seem to suggest that the immune response to influenza vaccines is lower in ESRD patients compared with healthy subjects [ 88 ]. A few studies indicate positive outcomes of vaccination in patients with chronic kidney disease, especially regarding all-cause or CV mortality, hospitalization and ICU admission [ 91 ]. According to data from the US Renal Data System relative to the 1997–1999 period, influenza vaccination reduced mortality risk in both peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis patients and decreased hospitalizations in hemodialysis patients compared with unvaccinated subjects [ 92 ].…”