Exploring Cognitive Dysfunction as a Secondary Effect of Kidney Disease: Unveiling the Kidney-Brain Interconnection. A Literature Review

By, Dr. Sc. (c) Vilma ÇADRI, Prof. Asoc. Dr. Ariana STRAKOSHA, Dr. Sc. Nevi PASKO, Dr. Sc. Elvana RISTA

Abstract

Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is increasingly recognized as a systemic condition affecting not only renal function but also various extra-renal systems, including the central nervous system. Cognitive impairment (CI) has emerged as a significant concern in CKD patients, manifesting as a spectrum ranging from mild cognitive deficits to clinically relevant dementia. Methods: A literature research of electronic databases (Pub-med library, NDT articles and Google Scholar covering the period from 2003-to March 2024) were conducted to assess the association of CKD and cognitive impairment. Results: This literature review explores the historical perspectives, definitions, clinical significance, methodological challenges, and potential mechanisms underlying CI in CKD. Furthermore, it highlights ongoing research initiatives, structural and hemodynamic similarities between the kidney and brain. Conclusions: Increasing clinician’s awareness of CI in CKD is essential to improving its early identification. Therefore, the early identification of possible precursors of CI and the diagnosis and prevention of it is of increased importance. Due to the complexity of CKD, there is tremendous need for increased multidisciplinary team for future directions in this ever-expanding area which is pivotal to our patient’s quality and quantity of life.
Keywords: Cognitive impairment, chronic kidney disease, kidney-brain axis

https://doi.org/10.58944/xsii1006