Prognostic Value of Serum Parathyroid Hormone in Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease

Abstract

End-stage renal disease (ESRD) is a clinical condition related to prolonged and irreversible loss of renal function. In addition to many others, it is associated with various disorders of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus metabolism which usually appears early in the course of the condition. Secondary hyperparathyroidism is a characteristic finding in patients with ESRD secondary to the previously mentioned metabolic abnormalities. The associated increase in plasma level of parathyroid hormone (PTH) has been correlated to many complications that accompany ESRD. These conditions might represent the major cause of mortality in certain circumstances. In light of this suggested impact of plasma level of PTH on many complications that are usually present in patients with ESRD, it might be of great benefit to regularly test this hormone in such patients.