Hematologic Abnormalities in Chronic Kidney Disease

Abstract

The focus of this review is on information practical to the practicing nephrologist and internists managing patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), with an emphasis on the quantitative aspects of risk, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Consequently, anemia associated with non–dialysis-associated CKD is emphasized, with special attention to the role of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents and intravenous (IV) iron in treating the anemia of CKD, as well as sections on uremic bleeding and anticoagulation in CKD patients. Figures show a patient before and after a minor infusion reaction, an algorithm outlining grading and management of acute hypersensitivity reactions to IV iron infusions, and an algorithm for the management of uremic platelet dysfunction. Tables list Food and Drug Administration-recommended dose adjustments for novel oral anticoagulant (NOACs) in CKD patients, evidence for preprocedural withholding of NOACs, and management guidelines for anticoagulation in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation and venous thromboembolism. This review contains 2 highly rendered figures, 3 tables, and 101 references. Key words: Chronic kidney disease; CKD; Anemia of chronic kidney disease; Anemia of CKD; Uremic bleeding; Anticoagulation in CKD; Novel oral anticoagulants in CKD; NOAC CKD