Epidemiology and risk factors for chronic kidney disease in patients with ischaemic stroke

Background There is growing evidence for an association between chronic renal disease (CKD) and adverse cerebrovascular events because of the overlap of several risk factors. The purpose of this study is to examine the epidemiology of CKD and the characteristics of risk factors for CKD in the population with ischaemic stroke. Methods This retrospective study included 571 patients with ischaemic stroke. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated by the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) study equation. Renal function was assessed according to the Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (K/DOQI)-CKD classification. Results Study demonstrated that the major factors associated with CKD in the ischaemic stroke patients were age, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, systolic blood pressure, LDL cholesterol and serum uric acid. Diabetes mellitus (OR 4.146, 95% CI 1.047-16.418, P=0.043), hypertension and diabetes mellitus (OR 3.574, 95% CI 1.248-10.234, P=0.018), serum uric acid (OR 1.010, 95% CI 1.006-1.013, P<0.001) and LDL cholesterol (OR 1.431, 95% CI 1.063-1.928, P=0.018) were independent risk factors associated with CKD in the patients with ischaemic stroke. Conclusions The patients with ischaemic stroke may be considered as a high-risk population for CKD and be aggressively managed for CKD prevention. The high prevalence of CKD in population with ischaemic stroke prompts the need for greater public awareness about risks of CKD.