ELECTROLYTE DISORDERS AND RENAL DYSFUNTION IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC HEART FAILURE

Abstract

Objectives:The objective of this study is to determine the frequency of electrolyte
disorders and renal dysfunction in patients with chronic heart failure.
Methodology:This was a prospective cross-sectional study. Patients admitted to
cardiology depar tment Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar with acute
decompensation of chronic heart failure from September 2010 to October 2011
were included in the study. Blood samples were collected for serum electrolytes
and creatinine and results were recorded on a pre-specified proforma. Data was
stored and analyzed via SPSS version 16.
Results:Total of 227 patients were included in the study. Mean age was 58.48 ±
12.5 years (range 16-90). Male were 130 (57.3%). Of these 27.3% (62) were ≤
50 year, while 72.7% (165) were >50 years old. Patients having renal
dysfunction (Serum Creatinine>1.5mg/dl) were 37.4% (85). Renal dysfunction
was more common in elderly (40% vs 30.6%, p value=0.220)
Hyponatremia (S. Na+<135mmol/dl) was noted in 32.1% patients.
Hypokalemia (S. K+<3.6mmol/dl) was noted in 18.1% patients and
hyperkalemia (S. K+ >5.5mmol/dl) was noted in 16.7% patients. In addition
hyperkalemia was more common in patients with renal dysfunction (24.7% vs
12% P value= 0.017), while hypokalemia was less frequent in patients with renal
dysfunction (14.1% vs 20.4% p value= 0.286).
Conclusion:Electrolyte disorders and renal dysfunction are frequent in patients
with chronic heart failure. Electrolyte disturbances are more frequent in patients
with underlying renal dysfunction.