Abstract:

Objective To investigate the factors related to hyperkalemia in stable hemodialysis patients. Methods A total of 102 patients on maintenance hemodialysis were enrolled in the study. Serum potassium levels before and after hemodialysis, glucose, carbon dioxide binding-capacity were determined by standard methods; serum aldosterone levels were measured by radioimmunoassay in the morning at supine position and drug administrations(ACEI, ARB, β-receptor blocker), residual urine volume, history of diabetes mellitus were recorded. The data were analyzed by Pearson correlation test and Logistic regression analysis. Results The prevalence of hyperkalemia was 35%(36/102) in our dialysis center. Hyperkalemia was positively correlated with the dietary potassium(r=0.66, P=0.000) intake, but not with serum aldosterone level, usage of RAS blockers, and history of diabetes. In Logistic regression analysis, the dietary potassium intake was identified as a solely independent determinant for hyperkalemia. Conclusion The dietary potassium intake was an independent factor associated with hyperkalemia in maintenance hemodialysis patients.

Key words: hyperkalemia, aldosterone, dietary potassium intake, hemodialysis