Title:Vascular Calcification in Chronic Kidney Disease: Role of Disordered Mineral Metabolism
Volume: 20
Issue: 37
Author(s): Shyamal Palit and Jessica Kendrick
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Vascular calcification, chronic kidney disease, mineral metabolism, phosphorus.
Abstract: In patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), vascular calcification is associated with significant morbidity and mortality.
The prevalence of vascular calcification increases as glomerular filtration rate (GFR) declines and calcification occurs years earlier in
CKD patients than in the general population. The mechanisms of vascular calcification in CKD patients are complex and not completely
understood but likely involve non-traditional risk factors, which may be unique to patients with CKD. These unique risk factors may predispose
patients to early and more accelerated calcification. Experimental and clinical studies show that disorders in mineral metabolisms
including calcium and phosphorus homeostasis initiate and promote vascular calcification in patients with CKD. It is currently unknown
if vascular calcification can be prevented or reversed with therapies aimed at maintaining calcium and phosphorus homeostasis. This review
focuses on the potential mechanisms by which disordered mineral metabolism may promote vascular calcification in patients with
CKD.
