Study of hematological changes in patients with chronic renal failure undergoing hemodialysis (pre and post)

Background: Chronic renal failure (CRF), a debilitating condition responsible for high morbidity and mortality considered a financial burden to the government and society. Determining the prevalence of CRF in any country is important for planning the care of affected patients. Aim and Objectives: The study aimed at looking for the hematological changes before, and following hemodialysis (HD) in CRF patients. The objectives included comparing complete hemogram, coagulation profile, and blood biochemistry before and after HD; determining hematological complications post-HD; taking precautions to reduce morbidity and mortality from hematological point of view; and assessing changes in hematological profile of CRF patients undergoing HD. Materials and Methods: An institutional cross-sectional study was done on 62 patients of CRF undergoing HD. The hematological and biochemical parameters were studied along with urinary findings. Results: Males were more affected in the study. The hematological parameters which were elevated following dialysis were total leukocyte count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), bleeding and clotting time, prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, but MCH concentration and platelet count showed a fall. Postprandial blood sugar, calcium and erythropoietin showed elevated levels following hemodialysis., while decreased levels were found in fasting blood sugar, sodium, potassium, phosphate, urea, and creatinine. Urinary studies showed a increase in specific gravity and a decrease in 24 h urinary protein. Conclusion: CRF is becoming a dreadful condition in society, with dialysis playing an eminent role in treatment modality. Formulating precautions before and after dialysis based on various hematological and biochemical parameters can help to reduce morbidity and mortality.