ABSTRACT:

Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a prevalent health condition characterized by progressive loss of kidney function, leading to various systemic complications. Dermatological manifestations are common in CKD patients, impacting their quality of life and clinical management. Understanding the prevalence and types of cutaneous manifestations in CKD is essential for comprehensive patient care.

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of cutaneous manifestations among CKD patients presenting to the Nephrology Division at Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar, during the period from January 2023 to August 2023. The study sought to categorize the types and frequencies of these dermatological conditions and provide insights into their clinical significance.

Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted, involving a review of medical records and dermatological assessments of CKD patients at Khyber Teaching Hospital. Inclusion criteria encompassed CKD patients with complete medical records within the specified timeframe, while exclusion criteria included patients with incomplete records or dermatological conditions unrelated to CKD. Data collection methods included systematic review and documentation of cutaneous manifestations such as pruritus, xerosis, pigmentary changes, nail abnormalities, and eczematous eruptions.

Results: Our study at Khyber Teaching Hospital revealed significant insights into the prevalence and types of cutaneous manifestations among Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients. Pruritus emerged as the most prevalent cutaneous manifestation, affecting 70% of the total sample, followed by xerosis at 60% and pigmentary changes at 45%. Nail abnormalities were observed in 27.5% of patients, while eczematous eruptions were present in 17.5%. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the dermatological burden faced by CKD patients in our study population.

Conclusion: The high prevalence of cutaneous manifestations, particularly pruritus, xerosis, and pigmentary changes, underscores the importance of dermatological assessments in CKD patients. These dermatological conditions significantly impact patients’ quality of life and require tailored management strategies. Our study contributes valuable insights to nephrology and dermatology practice, emphasizing the need for comprehensive patient assessments and personalized care plans to address CKD-related cutaneous manifestations effectively. Further research and interventions aimed at improving dermatological outcomes in CKD patients are warranted to enhance overall patient care and well-being.

Keywords: Chronic Kidney Disease, Cutaneous Manifestations, Dermatological Conditions, Pruritus, Xerosis, Pigmentary Changes, Nail Abnormalities, Eczematous Eruptions, Nephrology, Patient Care.