Therapeutic apheresis and dialysis : official peer-reviewed journal of the International Society for Apheresis, the Japanese Society for Apheresis, the Japanese Society for Dialysis Therapy | 2019
Chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus on quality of life undergoing hemodialysis in Malaysian patients.
Abstract
BACKGROUND\nCKD-associated pruritus (CKD-aP) is one of the common symptoms in patients undergo dialysis, thus contributing to the diminished and compromised quality of life. This study aimed to explore the association between the CKD-aP on quality of life of patients undergoing hemodialysis in Malaysia.\n\n\nMETHOD\nA cross-sectional multicenter study, carried out from February - September 2017 at tertiary care settings at Kuala Lumpur; Malaysia. Patients aged 18 years and above, undergoing hemodialysis, understanding Malay language and willing to participate were included. The CKD-aP was assessed by using Malay 5D-itch scale and Malay FANLTC questionaiare. To determine the factors associated with pruritus and quality of life multivariate logistic regression analysis was used having p-value<0.05 as statistically significant.\n\n\nRESULTS\nAmong n=334 recruited patients with a response rate of 100% and 59.6% were males and 61.3% were having CKD-associated pruritus. The results showed a statistically significant weak negative correlation between CKD-aP and quality of life. Multivariate linear regression revealed, none of these factors were found to be associated with pruritus, however CKD-aP was found to be associated with Quality of life score.\n\n\nCONCLUSION\nCKD-aP is have a negative impact on the patient s quality of life including physical, social, mental/emotional and functional well-being. Despite the high prevalence and negative impact of CKD-aP on quality of life, it is disregarded by most of the health care professionals. It is thus pertinent to monitor the potential risk factors and consider providing timely treatment implications for CKD-aP on hemodialysis, in order to improve their quality of life. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.