A Review of Risk Factors for Stroke in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease

Abstract

Background: Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at higher risk for stroke because of higher prevalence of traditional and
non-traditional cardiovascular risk factors.
Methods: We performed an extensive literature review with pre-defined keywords. We summarized the results of the studies evaluating for risk factors predisposing to stroke in CKD patients.
Results: The incidence of stroke and stroke-related mortality is higher in CKD patients compared with the general population. Presence of anemia, hypoalbuminemia, malnutrition, uremia, and hyperhomocysteinemia in patients with CKD is associated with higher
incidence of stroke. Hemodialysis and renal transplant patients are at higher risk of developing stroke compared with those who do
not require renal replacement therapy.
Conclusion: The early recognition of risk factors associated with stroke in CKD population is imperative. Early interventions may
potentially decrease the incidence and associated mortality of stroke in CKD patients.