Pattern of Admission and Outcomes for Chronic Kidney Disease in a Nigerian Tertiary Institution: A 5 Year Retrospective Study

Background: Chronic kidney disease is a global issue with a rising incidence and hospitalization rate. It coexists with cardiovascular diseases and presents higher morbidity and mortality.

Aims: We aim to examine the admission and outcomes of patients with chronic kidney disease admitted to medical wards over a 5 year period; (November 2018 to October 2023).

Study Design: This is a single-center retrospective descriptive study that examines patients with chronic kidney disease admitted to medical wards over a 5 - year period, from November 2018 to October 2023.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Nigeria. Data of patients admitted into the medical ward from November 2018 to October 2023 (5-year period) were retrieved.

Methodology: Patients' case notes were retrieved from the hospital’s records department. Demographic data such as age, sex, occupation, and religion were retrieved from the case notes. Other data that were retrieved included diagnosis, date of admission and discharge, and duration of stay.

Results: A total of 567 patients were admitted during the study period consisting of 237(41.8%) females and 330(58.2%) males. The mean age of the patients was 49.75±15.44 years. The Median duration of stay was 10 days. Diabetic Nephropathy was the leading cause of CKD 160(28.2%), followed by hypertensive Nephrosclerosis 152(26.8%).

Approximately 60.1% of the patients were discharged, while 19.6% left against medical advice and 20.3% of the patients died. Patients with a diagnosis of chronic kidney of unknown cause (CKDu) had a higher likelihood of dying (54.05%).

Conclusion: This study observed an increasing trend of CKD patients, with the majority presenting late to the hospital. It also revealed that diabetic nephropathy is gradually becoming the most common cause of CKD in this environment.