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Long-Term Kidney Outcomes in High BMI Living Kidney Donors: A Narrative Review
Abstract
Background:
The shortage of transplantable organs has led to the expansion of the living kidney donor (LKD) pool to include overweight (body mass index [BMI] 25-30 kg/m2) and obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m2) donors. Higher BMI is a known risk factor for chronic kidney disease and progression to end-stage renal disease.
Methods & Materials:
We focused our review on long-term kidney-related outcomes (kidney function, hypertension, and proteinuria) among higher BMI LKDs. A PubMed search retrieved a total of 27 articles reporting on renal outcomes for obese LKDs. Of these, nine studies with ≥5 years of follow-up were selected for inclusion.
Results:
Five studies reported a decrease in kidney function at follow-up for higher BMI LKDs. Higher BMI was noted as a risk factor for hypertension in six studies. Proteinuria was reported in six studies, and a significant association was noted with higher BMI status in three.
Conclusion:
This review highlights the continued need for long-term documentation of kidney function and related outcomes in higher BMI LKDs.
