Challenges in Management of Diabetic Patient on Dialysis

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is the leading cause of end-stage kidney disease in many countries. The management of diabetic patients who receive dialysis can be challenging. Diabetic dialysis patients have higher rates of cardiovascular events and mortality due to metabolic factors and accelerated vascular calcification. Diabetic haemodialysis patients have high rates of haemodynamic instability which leads to organ ischaemia and end organ damage; autonomic dysfunction seems to play an important role in haemodynamic instability and abnormal organ perfusion during haemodialysis. Poor glycaemic control contributes to fluid overload and worse cardiovascular outcome. Xerostomia and thirst are the main drivers for fluid overload in haemodialysis patients and in peritoneal dialysis a chronic state of hyperhydration that is related to absorption of glucose from the PD fluids, protein loss and malnutrition contributes to fluid overload. Glycaemic control is of great importance and adjustments to diabetic agents are required. In haemodialysis, a reduction in insulin dose is recommended to avoid hypoglycaemia whereas in peritoneal dialysis an increase in insulin dose is often required. Foot ulcers and infection are more common in diabetic dialysis patients compared to non-diabetic dialysis patients or diabetic patients with normal renal function and regular surveillance for early identification is important. Ultimately, a multi-disciplinary approach which includes diabetologist, nephrologist, dietitians, microbiologist, vascular surgeon, interventional radiologist is required to address the complicated aspects of diabetic patient care on dialysis.