Measuring kidney function

Investigations for proteinuria

1.1.10.

Do not use reagent strips to identify proteinuria in children and young people. [2021]

1.1.11.

Do not use reagent strips to identify proteinuria in adults unless they are capable of specifically measuring albumin at low concentrations and expressing the result as an albumin:creatinine ratio (ACR). [2008]

1.1.12.

For the initial detection of proteinuria in adults, children and young people:

• use urine ACR rather than protein:creatinine ratio (PCR) because of the greater sensitivity for low levels of proteinuria
• check an ACR between 3 mg/mmol and 70 mg/mmol in a subsequent early morning sample to confirm the result.
  A repeat sample is not needed if the initial ACR is 70 mg/mmol or more. [2021]

1.1.13.

Regard a confirmed ACR of 3 mg/mmol or more as clinically important proteinuria. [2021]

1.1.14.

Measure proteinuria with urine ACR in the following groups:

• adults, children and young people with diabetes (type 1 or type 2)
• adults with an eGFR of less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m²
• adults with an eGFR of 60 ml/min/1.73 m² or more if there is a strong suspicion of CKD
• children and young people without diabetes and with creatinine above the upper limit of the age-appropriate reference range.
  When ACR is 70 mg/mmol or more, PCR can be used as an alternative to ACR. [2021]

Haematuria

1.1.16.

Use reagent strips to test for haematuria in adults, children and young people (see recommendation 1.1.14 for people who should be tested for haematuria):

• Evaluate further for results of 1+ or higher.
• Do not use urine microscopy to confirm a positive result. [2021]

Managing isolated invisible haematuria

1.1.17.

When there is the need to differentiate persistent invisible haematuria in the absence of proteinuria from transient haematuria, regard 2 out of 3 positive reagent strip tests as confirmation of persistent invisible haematuria. [2008]

1.1.18.

Persistent invisible haematuria, with or without proteinuria, should prompt investigation for urinary tract malignancy in appropriate age groups (see NICE’s guideline on suspected cancer: recognition and referral). [2008]

1.1.19.

Persistent invisible haematuria in the absence of proteinuria should be followed up annually with repeat testing for haematuria (see recommendations 1.1.17 and 1.1.18), proteinuria or albuminuria, GFR and blood pressure monitoring as long as the haematuria persists. [2008]

Who should be tested for CKD

1.1.20.

Monitor GFR at least annually in adults, children and young people who are taking medicines that can adversely affect kidney function, such as calcineurin inhibitors (for example, ciclosporin or tacrolimus), lithium or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (long-term chronic use of NSAIDs). [2021]

1.1.21.

Offer testing for CKD using eGFRcreatinine and ACR to adults with any of the following risk factors:

• diabetes
• hypertension
• previous episode of acute kidney injury
• cardiovascular disease (ischaemic heart disease, chronic heart failure, peripheral vascular disease or cerebral vascular disease)
• structural renal tract disease, recurrent renal calculi or prostatic hypertrophy
• multisystem diseases with potential kidney involvement, for example, systemic lupus erythematosus
• gout
• family history of end-stage renal disease (GFR category G5) or hereditary kidney disease
• incidental detection of haematuria or proteinuria. [2021]

1.1.22.

Offer testing for CKD using eGFRcreatinine and ACR to children and young people with any of the following risk factors:

• previous episode of acute kidney injury
• solitary functioning kidney. [2021]

1.1.23.

Consider testing for CKD using eGFRcreatinine and ACR in children and young people with any of the following risk factors:

• low birth weight (2,500 g or lower)
• diabetes
• hypertension
• cardiac disease
• structural renal tract disease or recurrent renal calculi
• multisystem diseases with potential kidney involvement, for example, systemic lupus erythematosus
• family history of end-stage renal disease (GFR category G5) or hereditary kidney disease
• incidental detection of haematuria or proteinuria. [2021]

1.1.24.

Do not use any of the following as risk factors indicating testing for CKD in adults, children and young people:

• age
• gender
• ethnicity
• obesity in the absence of metabolic syndrome, diabetes or hypertension. [2021]

1.1.25.

Monitor adults, children and young people for the development or progression of CKD for at least 3 years after acute kidney injury (longer for people with acute kidney injury stage 3) even if eGFR has returned to baseline. [2021]

1.1.26.

For guidance on ACR monitoring for children and young people with diabetes, see the NICE guideline on diabetes in children:

• monitoring for complications and associated conditions of type 1 diabetes
• monitoring for complications and associated conditions of type 2 diabetes. [2021]

Investigating the cause of CKD and determining the risk of adverse outcomes

1.2.3.

Agree a plan to establish the cause of CKD during an informed discussion with the person with CKD, particularly if the cause may be treatable (for example, urinary tract obstruction, medicines that can adversely affect kidney function or glomerular disease). [2014]

1.2.4.

Use the person’s GFR and ACR categories (see table 1) to indicate their risk of adverse outcomes (for example, CKD progression, acute kidney injury, all-cause mortality and cardiovascular events) and discuss this with them. [2014]

Indications for renal ultrasound in adults

1.2.5.

Offer a renal ultrasound scan to all adults with CKD who:

• have accelerated progression of CKD (see recommendation 1.3.5)
• have visible or persistent invisible haematuria
• have symptoms of urinary tract obstruction
• have a family history of polycystic kidney disease and are older than 20
• have a GFR of less than 30 ml/min/1.73 m² (GFR category G4 or G5)
• are considered by a nephrologist to need a renal biopsy. [2008, amended 2014]

1.2.6.

Advise adults with a family history of hereditary kidney disease about the implications of an abnormal result before a renal ultrasound scan is arranged for them. [2008]

Defining progression in adults

1.3.5.

Define accelerated progression of CKD in adults as:

• a sustained decrease in GFR of 25% or more and a change in GFR category within 12 months or
• a sustained decrease in GFR of 15 ml/min/1.73 m² per year. [2014]

1.3.6.

Take the following steps to identify the rate of progression of CKD:

• Obtain a minimum of 3 GFR estimations over a period of not less than 90 days.
• In adults with a new finding of reduced GFR, repeat the GFR within 2 weeks to exclude causes of acute deterioration of GFR. For example, acute kidney injury or starting renin–angiotensin system antagonist therapy. [2008, amended 2014]

1.3.7.

Be aware that adults with CKD are at increased risk of progression to end-stage renal disease if they have either of the following:

• a sustained decrease in GFR of 25% or more over 12 months or
• a sustained decrease in GFR of 15 ml/min/1.73 m² or more over 12 months. [2008, amended 2014]

1.3.8.

When assessing CKD progression, extrapolate the current rate of decline of GFR and take this into account when planning intervention strategies, particularly if it suggests that the person might need renal replacement therapy in their lifetime. [2008, amended 2014]

Risk factors associated with CKD progression in adults

1.3.9.

Work with adults who have any of the following risk factors for CKD progression to optimise their health:

• cardiovascular disease
• proteinuria
• previous episode of acute kidney injury
• hypertension
• diabetes
• smoking
• African, African-Caribbean or Asian family origin
• chronic use of NSAIDs
• untreated urinary outflow tract obstruction. [2014]

1.3.10.

In adults with CKD the chronic use of NSAIDs may be associated with progression and acute use is associated with a reversible decrease in GFR. Exercise caution when giving NSAIDs to people with CKD over prolonged periods of time. Monitor the effects on GFR, particularly in people with a low baseline GFR and/or in the presence of other risks for progression. [2008]

Lifestyle advice

1.4.6.

Encourage adults with CKD to take exercise, achieve a healthy weight and stop smoking. [2008]

Self-management

1.4.10.

Ensure that systems are in place to:

• inform adults with CKD (and their family members or carers, as appropriate) of their diagnosis
• enable adults with CKD (and their family members or carers, as appropriate) to share in decision making about their care
• support self-management (this includes providing information about blood pressure, smoking cessation, exercise, diet and medicines) and enable adults with CKD to make informed choices. [2014]

1.4.11.

Give adults access to their medical data (including diagnosis, comorbidities, test results, treatments and correspondence) through information systems, such as Renal PatientView, to encourage and help them to self-manage their CKD. [2014]

Risk assessment

1.5.1.

Give adults with CKD and their family members or carers (as appropriate) information about their 5-year risk of needing renal replacement therapy (measured using the 4-variable Kidney Failure Risk Equation).

Follow NICE’s guideline on shared decision making when communicating risk. [2021]

1.5.2.

Use every day, jargon-free language to communicate information on risk. If technical and medical terms are used, explain them clearly. [2021]

1.5.3.

Set aside enough time during the consultation to give information on risk assessment and to answer any questions. Arrange another appointment for more discussion if this is needed. [2021]

1.5.4.

Document the discussion on risk assessment and any decisions the person makes. [2021]

Referral criteria

1.5.5.

Refer adults with CKD for specialist assessment (taking into account their wishes and comorbidities) if they have any of the following:

• a 5-year risk of needing renal replacement therapy of greater than 5% (measured using the 4-variable Kidney Failure Risk Equation)
• an ACR of 70 mg/mmol or more, unless known to be caused by diabetes and already appropriately treated (see recommendations 1.6.6 and 1.6.7)
• an ACR of more than 30 mg/mmol (ACR category A3), together with haematuria
• a sustained decrease in eGFR of 25% or more and a change in eGFR category within 12 months
• a sustained decrease in eGFR of 15 ml/min/1.73 m² or more per year
• hypertension that remains poorly controlled (above the person’s individual target) despite the use of at least 4 antihypertensive medicines at therapeutic doses (see also NICE’s guideline on hypertension in adults)
• known or suspected rare or genetic causes of CKD
• suspected renal artery stenosis. [2021]

1.5.6.

Refer children and young people with CKD for specialist assessment if they have any of the following:

• an ACR of 3 mg/mmol or more, confirmed on a repeat early morning urine sample
• haematuria
• any decrease in eGFR
• hypertension
• known or suspected rare or genetic causes of CKD
• suspected renal artery stenosis
• renal outflow obstruction. [2021]

1.5.7.

Consider discussing management with a specialist by letter, email, telephone, or virtual meeting, if there are concerns but the person with CKD does not need to see a specialist. [2021]

1.5.8.

Refer people with CKD and renal outflow obstruction to urological services, unless urgent treatment is needed (for example, for hyperkalaemia, severe uraemia, acidosis or fluid overload). [2021]

Shared care

1.5.9.

After referral:

• Agree, document and date a care plan with the person with CKD or their family member or carer (as appropriate). Follow:

  –

  the recommendations on patient views and preferences in NICE’s guideline on patient experience in adult NHS services

  –

  NICE’s guideline on shared decision making.

• Consider routine follow up at the GP surgery or with a paediatrician rather than in a specialist clinic.
• Specify criteria for future referral and re-referral if GP follow up is agreed. For children and young people, these criteria should be agreed between the GP and secondary care services. [2021]

Blood pressure control

See NICE’s guideline on hypertension in adults for advice on blood pressure control in people with frailty and multimorbidity.

NICE’s guideline on hypertension in adults recommends using clinic blood pressure for monitoring response to lifestyle changes or medical treatment (see recommendation 1.4.15).

1.6.1.

In adults with CKD and an ACR under 70 mg/mmol, aim for a clinic systolic blood pressure below 140 mmHg (target range 120 to 139 mmHg) and a clinic diastolic blood pressure below 90 mmHg. [2021]

1.6.2.

In adults with CKD and an ACR of 70 mg/mmol or more, aim for a clinic systolic blood pressure below 130 mmHg (target range 120 to 129 mmHg) and a clinic diastolic blood pressure below 80 mmHg. [2021]

1.6.3.

In children and young people with CKD and an ACR of 70 mg/mol or more, aim for a clinic systolic blood pressure below the 50th percentile for height. [2021]

Pharmacotherapy for hypertension

1.6.4.

Follow the recommendations on treating hypertension in NICE’s guideline on hypertension in adults for adults with CKD, hypertension and an ACR of 30 mg/mmol or less (ACR categories A1 and A2). [2014, amended 2021]

1.6.5.

Offer an angiotensin-receptor blocker (ARB) or an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor (titrated to the highest licensed dose that the person can tolerate) to adults, children and young people with CKD who have hypertension and an ACR over 30 mg/mmol (ACR category A3 or above). [2021]

Pharmacotherapy for CKD in adults, children, and young people with related persistent proteinuria

For advice on blood glucose control, see:

• NICE’s guideline on type 1 diabetes in adults
• NICE’s guideline on type 2 diabetes in adults
• NICE’s guideline on type 1 and type 2 diabetes in children and young people.

1.6.6.

For adults with CKD and diabetes (type 1 or type 2) offer an ARB or an ACE inhibitor (titrated to the highest licensed dose that the person can tolerate) if ACR is 3 mg/mmol or more. [2021]

1.6.7.

For guidance on SGLT2 inhibitors for adults with CKD and type 2 diabetes, see chronic kidney disease in NICE’s guideline on type 2 diabetes in adults. [2021]

1.6.8.

For children and young people with CKD and diabetes (type 1 or 2), offer an ARB or an ACE inhibitor (titrated to the highest licensed dose that they can tolerate) if ACR is 3 mg/mmol or more. [2021]

1.6.9.

For adults with CKD but without diabetes:

• refer for nephrology assessment and offer an ARB or an ACE inhibitor (titrated to the highest licensed dose that they can tolerate), if ACR is 70 mg/mmol or more
• monitor in line with recommendations 1.3.1 and 1.3.4 if ACR is above 30 but below 70 mg/mmol; consider discussing with a nephrologist if eGFR declines or ACR increases. [2021]

1.6.10.

For children and young people with CKD but without diabetes:

• offer an ARB or an ACE inhibitor if ACR (titrated to the highest licensed dose that they can tolerate) is 70 mg/mol or more
• monitor in line with recommendations 1.3.1 and 1.3.4 if ACR is above 30 but below 70 mg/mmol; consider discussing with a nephrologist if eGFR declines or ACR increases. [2021]

1.6.11.

When offering medicines to lower proteinuria to people with frailty, comorbidities or who are taking many other prescribed medicines, follow the recommendations in NICE’s guideline on medicines optimisation to ensure the best possible outcomes. Seek specialist advice if needed, for example from a consultant in care of the elderly, or from a kidney physician if the person asks about contraception. [2021]

Renin–angiotensin system antagonists

1.6.12.

Do not offer a combination of renin–angiotensin system antagonists to adults with CKD. [2014]

1.6.13.

Explain to adults with CKD (and their family members or carers, as appropriate) who are prescribed renin–angiotensin system antagonists about the importance of:

• achieving the optimal tolerated dose of renin–angiotensin system antagonists and
• monitoring eGFR and serum potassium in achieving this safely. [2008]

1.6.14.

Measure serum potassium concentrations and estimate the GFR before starting renin–angiotensin system antagonists in people with CKD. Repeat these measurements between 1 and 2 weeks after starting renin–angiotensin system antagonists and after each dose increase. [2008]

1.6.15.

Do not routinely offer a renin–angiotensin system antagonist to adults with CKD if their pretreatment serum potassium concentration is greater than 5.0 mmol/litre. [2008, amended 2014]

1.6.16.

If an adult cannot use renin–angiotensin system antagonists because of hyperkalaemia:

• assess for and treat any other factors that promote hyperkalaemia and
• recheck serum potassium concentration. [2008]

1.6.17.

Be aware that more frequent monitoring of serum potassium concentration may be needed if medicines known to promote hyperkalaemia are prescribed for use in people alongside renin–angiotensin system antagonists. [2008]

1.6.18.

Stop renin–angiotensin system antagonists in adults if the serum potassium concentration increases to 6.0 mmol/litre or more and other medicines known to promote hyperkalaemia have been discontinued. [2008]

1.6.19.

For recommendations on hyperkalaemia treatment in adults with categories G3b to G5 chronic kidney disease, see NICE’s technology appraisals on sodium zirconium cyclosilicate and patiromer. [2021]

1.6.20.

After introducing or increasing the dose of renin–angiotensin system antagonists in adults, do not modify the dose if either:

• the GFR decrease from pretreatment baseline is less than 25% or
• the serum creatinine increase from baseline is less than 30%. [2008]

1.6.21.

If there is a decrease in eGFR or increase in serum creatinine after starting or increasing the dose of renin–angiotensin system antagonists, but it is less than 25% (eGFR) or 30% (serum creatinine) of baseline, repeat the test in 1 to 2 weeks. Do not modify the renin–angiotensin system antagonist dose if the change in eGFR is less than 25% or the change in serum creatinine is less than 30%. [2008]

1.6.22.

If an adult’s eGFR change is 25% or more, or the change in serum creatinine is 30% or more:

• investigate other causes of a deterioration in kidney function, such as volume depletion or concurrent medication (for example, NSAIDs)
• if no other cause for the deterioration in kidney function is found, stop the renin–angiotensin system antagonist or reduce the dose to a previously tolerated lower dose, and add an alternative antihypertensive medication if needed. [2008]

Statins for adults

1.6.23.

Follow the recommendations in NICE’s guideline on cardiovascular disease: risk assessment and reduction, including lipid modification for the use of statins in adults with CKD. [2014]

Oral antiplatelets and anticoagulants for adults

1.6.24.

Offer antiplatelet medicines to adults with CKD for the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease, but be aware of the increased risk of bleeding. [2014]

1.6.25.

For guidance on oral anticoagulants for people with CKD, see NICE’s guidelines on atrial fibrillation and venous thromboembolic diseases. [2014, amended 2021]

Diagnostic role of haemoglobin levels

1.7.1.

Consider investigating and managing anaemia in adults, children and young people with CKD if:

• their haemoglobin (Hb) level falls to 110 g/litre or less (or 105 g/litre or less if younger than 2 years) or
• they develop symptoms attributable to anaemia (such as tiredness, shortness of breath, lethargy and palpitations). [2011]

Diagnostic role of glomerular filtration rate

1.7.2.

In adults, children and young people with anaemia (see recommendation 1.7.3):

• If eGFR is above 60 ml/min/1.73 m², investigate other causes of anaemia as it is unlikely to be caused by CKD.
• If eGFR is between 30 and 60 ml/min/1.73 m²:

  –

  investigate other causes of anaemia, but

  –

  use clinical judgement to decide how extensive this investigation should be, because the anaemia may be caused by CKD.

• If eGFR is below 30 ml/min/1.73 m², think about other causes of anaemia but note that anaemia is often caused by CKD. [2021]

Diagnostic tests to determine iron status and predict response to iron therapy

1.7.3.

Carry out testing to diagnose iron deficiency and determine potential responsiveness to iron therapy and long-term iron requirements every 3 months (every 1 to 3 months for people having haemodialysis).

• Use percentage of hypochromic red blood cells (% HRC; more than 6%), but only if processing of blood sample is possible within 6 hours.
• If using percentage of hypochromic red blood cells is not possible, use reticulocyte Hb content (CHr; less than 29 pg) or equivalent tests – for example, reticulocyte Hb equivalent.
• If these tests are not available or the person has thalassaemia or thalassaemia trait, use a combination of transferrin saturation (less than 20%) and serum ferritin measurement (less than 100 micrograms/litre). [2015]

1.7.4.

Do not request transferrin saturation or serum ferritin measurement alone to assess iron deficiency status in people with anaemia of CKD. [2015]

1.7.5.

Do not routinely measure erythropoietin levels for the diagnosis or management of anaemia in people with anaemia of CKD. [2006]

Starting erythropoietic stimulating agent therapy in iron-deficiency

1.8.1.

ESA (erythropoietic stimulating agent) therapy should not be started in the presence of absolute iron deficiency without also managing the iron deficiency. [2006]

Maximum iron levels in people with anaemia of CKD

1.8.2.

In adults, children and young people treated with iron, serum ferritin levels should not rise above 800 micrograms/litre. In order to prevent this, review the dose of iron when serum ferritin levels reach 500 micrograms/litre. [2006]

Clinical utility of ESA therapy in people with sufficient iron

1.8.3.

Discuss the pros and cons of a trial of anaemia management with the person with anaemia of CKD, and their families and carers if agreed. [2006]

1.8.4.

ESAs need not be administered if the presence of comorbidities, or the prognosis, is likely to negate the benefits of correcting the anaemia. [2006]

1.8.5.

Start a trial of anaemia correction when there is uncertainty over whether the presence of comorbidities, or the prognosis, would negate benefit from correcting the anaemia with ESAs. [2006]

1.8.6.

If a trial of ESA therapy is carried out, assess the effectiveness of the trial after an agreed interval. Agree with the person with anaemia of CKD (and their families and carers, if appropriate) whether or not to continue ESA therapy. [2006]

1.8.7.

Review treatment in all people started on ESA therapy after an agreed interval to decide whether or not to continue using ESAs. [2006]

Nutritional supplements

1.8.8.

Do not prescribe supplements of vitamin C, folic acid or carnitine as adjuvants specifically for the treatment of anaemia of CKD. [2006]

Androgens

1.8.9.

Do not use androgens to treat anaemia in people with anaemia of CKD. [2006]

Hyperparathyroidism

1.8.10.

Treat clinically relevant hyperparathyroidism in adults, children and young people with CKD to improve the management of the anaemia. [2006]

Person-centred care and ESAs

1.8.11.

Give adults, children and young people offered ESA therapy and their GPs information about why ESA therapy is needed, how it works and what benefits and side effects may be experienced. [2006]

1.8.12.

When managing the treatment of anaemia of CKD, there should be agreed protocols defining roles and responsibilities of healthcare professionals in primary and secondary care. [2006]

1.8.13.

Explain to people receiving ESA therapy about the importance of concordance with therapy and the consequences of poor adherence. [2006]

1.8.14.

When prescribing ESA therapy, take into account the person’s preferences about supervised- or self-administration, dose frequency, pain on injection, method of supplying ESA and storage. [2006]

1.8.15.

In order for people to self-administer their ESA in a way that is clinically effective and safe, make arrangements to provide ready, reasonable and uninterrupted access to supplies. [2006]

Patient education programmes

1.8.16.

Offer culturally and age-appropriate patient education programmes to all adults, children and young people diagnosed with anaemia of CKD (and their families and carers). These should be repeated as requested, and according to the person’s changing circumstances. They should include the following key areas:

• Practical information about how anaemia of CKD is managed.
• Knowledge (for example, about symptoms, iron management, causes of anaemia, associated medications, phases of treatment).
• Professional support (for example, contact information, community services, continuity of care, monitoring, feedback on progress of results).
• Lifestyle (for example, diet, physical exercise, maintaining normality, meeting other people with the condition).
• Adaptation to chronic disease (for example, previous information and expectations, resolution of symptoms). [2006]

Benefits of treatment with ESAs

1.9.1.

Offer treatment with ESAs to adults, children and young people with anaemia of CKD who are likely to benefit in terms of quality of life and physical function. [2006]

Blood transfusions

1.9.2.

Avoid blood transfusions if possible in people with anaemia of CKD in whom kidney transplant is a treatment option. [2006]

1.9.3.

If a transfusion is indicated clinically in a person with anaemia of CKD, follow NICE’s guideline on blood transfusion. [2006, amended 2015]

Comparisons of ESAs

1.9.4.

Discuss the choice of ESA with the person with anaemia of CKD when starting treatment and at subsequent review, taking into account:

• the person’s dialysis status
• the route of administration
• the local availability of ESAs
• the lack of evidence comparing the efficacy of ESAs. [2006]

Coordinating care

1.9.5.

Ensure people with anaemia of CKD have access to a designated contact person or people who have principal responsibility for their anaemia management and who have skills in the following activities:

• Monitoring and managing a caseload in line with locally agreed protocols.
• Providing information, education and support to empower people and their families and carers to participate in their care.
• Coordinating an anaemia service for people with CKD, working between secondary and primary care and providing a single point of contact, to ensure people receive a seamless service of the highest standard.
• Prescribing medicines related to anaemia management and monitoring their effectiveness. [2006]

Providing ESAs

1.9.6.

Agree a treatment plan between the prescriber and the person with anaemia of CKD that ensures ESA therapy is clinically effective, consistent and safe. The plan should be person-centred and include:

• continuity of medicine supply
• flexibility of where the medicine is delivered and administered
• the person’s lifestyle and preferences
• cost of medicine supply
• desire for self-care if appropriate
• regular review of the plan in light of changing needs. [2006]

ESAs: optimal route of administration

1.9.7.

Agree the route of administration of ESAs between the person with anaemia of CKD and the prescriber, and revise as appropriate. Take into account the following factors:

• patient population (for example, people having haemodialysis)
• pain of injection
• frequency of administration
• the person’s lifestyle and preferences
• efficacy (for example, subcutaneous compared with intravenous administration, or long-acting compared with short-acting preparations)
• cost of medicine supply. [2006]

1.9.8.

The prescriber should take into account that when using short-acting ESAs, subcutaneous injection allows the use of lower doses of medicines than intravenous administration. [2006]

ESAs: dose and frequency

1.9.9.

When correcting anaemia of CKD, the dose and frequency of ESA should be:

• determined by the duration of action and route of administration of the ESA
• adjusted to keep the rate of Hb increase between 10 and 20 g/litre/month. [2006]

Optimal Hb levels

1.9.10.

When determining individual aspirational Hb ranges for people with anaemia of CKD, take into account:

• their preferences
• symptoms and comorbidities
• the necessary treatment. [2011]

1.9.11.

Do not routinely correct Hb to normal levels with ESAs in adults, children and young people with anaemia of CKD.

• Typically maintain the aspirational Hb range between 100 and 120 g/litre for adults, young people and children aged 2 years and over, and between 95 and 115 g/litre for children under 2 years, reflecting the lower normal range in that age group.
• To keep the Hb level within the aspirational range, do not wait until Hb levels are outside the aspirational range before adjusting treatment (for example, take action when Hb levels are within 5 g/litre of the range’s limits).
  Follow the MHRA safety advice on recombinant human erythropoietins, particularly the advice to avoid Hb levels above 120 g/litre because of the increased risk of death and serious adverse cardiovascular events in people with CKD. People should have close monitoring to ensure that the lowest approved dose of ESA is used to provide adequate control of the anaemia symptoms. [2021]

1.9.12.

Consider accepting Hb levels below the agreed aspirational range if:

• high doses of ESAs are needed to achieve the aspirational range or
• the aspirational range is not achieved despite escalating ESA doses.
  High doses are more than 175 IU/kg per week for people having haemodialysis; more than 125 IU/kg per week for people having peritoneal dialysis; more than 100 IU/kg per week for people not having dialysis. [2011]

1.9.13.

Do not use age alone to determine treatment of anaemia of CKD. [2006]

Adjusting ESA treatment

1.9.14.

Optimise iron status before or at the same time as starting ESAs and during maintenance treatment with ESAs. [2006, amended 2011]

1.9.15.

Use of ACE inhibitors or angiotensin type II receptor antagonists is not precluded, but if they are used, an increase in ESA therapy should be considered. [2006]

1.9.16.

Take into account Hb measurements when determining the dose and frequency of ESA administration.

• Investigate the cause of an unexpected change in Hb level (that is, intercurrent illness or bleeding) to enable intervention and optimise iron status.
• Increase or decrease ESA dose and/or frequency when Hb measurements fall outside action thresholds (usually below 105 g/litre or above 115 g/litre), or for example when the rate of change of Hb suggests an established trend (for example, greater than 10 g/litre/month). [2006, amended 2011]

Correcting iron deficiency

1.9.17.

Offer iron therapy to adults, children and young people with anaemia of CKD who are receiving ESAs to achieve:

• percentage of hypochromic red blood cells less than 6% (unless ferritin is greater than 800 micrograms/litre)
• reticulocyte Hb count or equivalent tests above 29 pg (unless serum ferritin is greater than 800 micrograms/litre).
  If these tests are not available or the person has thalassaemia or thalassaemia trait, iron therapy should maintain transferrin saturation greater than 20% and serum ferritin level greater than 100 micrograms/litre (unless serum ferritin is greater than 800 micrograms/litre).
  Most adults will need 500 to 1,000 mg of iron (equivalent doses for children) in a single or divided dose depending on the preparation. Intravenous iron should be administered in a setting with facilities for resuscitation. [2015]
  In August 2021, this was an off-label use of intravenous iron products for some ages of children and young people. See NICE’s information on prescribing medicines.

1.9.18.

Offer a high-dose intravenous iron regimen to adults, children and young people with stage 5 CKD on in-centre (hospital or satellite unit) haemodialysis, if they have iron deficiency (see recommendation 1.7.3).

See table 3 for an example of a high-dose intravenous iron regimen for adults or use a bioequivalent dose of iron. For children and young people, use the maximum dosing regimen in the British National Formulary for Children (BNFc) unless serum ferritin is greater than 800 micrograms/litre when the dose should be withheld.

In August 2021, this was an off-label use of intravenous iron products for some children and young people. See NICE’s information on prescribing medicines. [2021]

Table 3

Example of high-dose intravenous iron regimen for adults.

Maintaining iron levels after a deficiency is corrected

1.9.19.

Once the percentage of hypochromic red blood cells is less than 6%, reticulocyte Hb count or equivalent tests are above 29 pg, or transferrin saturation is greater than 20% and serum ferritin level is greater than 100 micrograms/litre, offer maintenance iron to people with anaemia of CKD who are receiving ESAs.

The dosing regimen will depend on modality, for example people having haemodialysis will need the equivalent of 50 to 60 mg intravenous iron per week (or an equivalent dose in children of 1 mg/kg/week). [2015]

In August 2021, this was an off-label use of intravenous iron products for some ages of children and young people. See NICE’s information on prescribing medicines.

Monitoring iron status during ESA treatment

1.9.20.

Offer iron therapy to adults, children and young people receiving ESA maintenance therapy to keep their:

• percentage of hypochromic red blood cells less than 6% (unless serum ferritin is greater than 800 micrograms/litre)
• reticulocyte Hb count or equivalent tests above 29 pg (unless serum ferritin is greater than 800 micrograms/litre)
• transferrin saturation level above 20% and serum ferritin level above 100 micrograms/litre (unless serum ferritin is greater than 800 micrograms/litre).
  The marker of iron status should be monitored every 1 to 3 months in people having haemodialysis.
  In people who are pre-dialysis or receiving peritoneal dialysis, levels are typically monitored every 3 months. If these people have a normal full blood count there is little benefit in checking iron status. [2015]
  In August 2021, this was an off-label use of intravenous iron products for some ages of children and young people. See NICE’s information on prescribing medicines.

Iron therapy for people who are iron deficient and not on ESA therapy

1.9.21.

Offer iron therapy to adults, children and young people with anaemia of CKD who are iron deficient and who are not receiving ESA therapy, before discussing ESA therapy. (In August 2021, this was an off-label use of intravenous iron products for some ages of children and young people. See NICE’s information on prescribing medicines).

• Discuss the risks and benefits of treatment options. Take into account the person’s choice.
• For people who are not having haemodialysis, consider a trial of oral iron before offering intravenous iron therapy. If they are intolerant of oral iron or target Hb levels are not reached within 3 months (see recommendation 1.9.11), offer intravenous iron therapy.
• For people who are having haemodialysis, offer intravenous iron therapy. Offer oral iron therapy to people who are having haemodialysis only if:

  –

  intravenous iron therapy is contraindicated or

  –

  the person chooses not to have intravenous iron therapy after discussing the relative efficacy and side effects of oral and intravenous iron therapy. [2015]

1.9.22.

Discuss the results of the iron therapy with the person or, if appropriate, with their family or carers and offer ESA therapy if needed (see recommendation 1.9.1). [2015]

Iron therapy for people who are iron deficient and receiving ESA therapy

1.9.23.

Offer iron therapy to adults, children and young people with anaemia of CKD who are iron deficient and who are receiving ESA therapy. (In August 2021, this was an off-label use of intravenous iron products for some ages of children and young people. See NICE’s information on prescribing medicines).

• Discuss the risks and benefits of treatment options. Take into account the person’s choice.
• For adults and young people, offer intravenous iron therapy.
• For children who are having haemodialysis, offer intravenous iron therapy.
• For children who are not having haemodialysis, consider oral iron. If the child is intolerant of oral iron or target Hb levels are not reached within 3 months (see recommendation 1.9.11), offer intravenous iron therapy. [2015]

1.9.24.

Offer oral iron therapy to adults and young people who are receiving ESA therapy only if:

• intravenous iron therapy is contraindicated or
• the person chooses not to have intravenous iron therapy after discussing the relative efficacy and side effects of oral and intravenous iron therapy. [2015]

1.9.25.

When offering intravenous iron therapy to people not having haemodialysis, consider high-dose low-frequency intravenous iron as the treatment of choice for adults and young people when trying to achieve iron repletion. Take into account all of the following:

• preferences of the person with anaemia of CKD or, if appropriate, their family or carers
• nursing and administration costs
• cost of local medicine supply
• provision of resuscitation facilities.
  High-dose and low-frequency iron is a maximum of 2 infusions, with a minimum of 500 mg of iron in each infusion for adults. Low dose and high frequency is more than 2 infusions with 100 mg to 200 mg of iron in each infusion for adults. [2015]
  In August 2021, this was an off-label use of intravenous iron products for some ages of children and young people. See NICE’s information on prescribing medicines.

Monitoring iron status

1.10.1.

Do not check iron levels earlier than 1 week after administering intravenous iron in adults, children and young people with anaemia of CKD. The length of time to monitoring of iron status is dependent on the product used and the amount of iron given. [2006]

1.10.2.

Carry out routine monitoring of iron stores to prevent iron overload using serum ferritin at intervals of 1 to 3 months. [2006, amended 2015]

Monitoring Hb levels

1.10.3.

In adults, children and young people with anaemia of CKD, monitor Hb:

• every 2 to 4 weeks in the induction phase of ESA therapy
• every 1 to 3 months in the maintenance phase of ESA therapy
• more frequently after an ESA dose adjustment
• in a clinical setting chosen in discussion with the person, taking into account their convenience and local healthcare systems. [2006]

Detecting ESA resistance

1.10.4.

After other causes of anaemia, such as intercurrent illness or chronic blood loss have been excluded, regard people with anaemia of CKD as resistant to ESAs when:

• an aspirational Hb range is not achieved despite treatment with 300 IU/kg/week or more of subcutaneous epoetin or 450 IU/kg/week or more of intravenous epoetin or 1.5 micrograms/kg/week of darbepoetin or
• there is a continued need for the administration of high doses of ESAs to maintain the aspirational Hb range. [2006]

1.10.5.

In people with CKD, pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) is indicated by a low reticulocyte count, together with anaemia and the presence of neutralising antibodies. Confirm PRCA by the presence of anti-erythropoietin antibodies together with a lack of pro-erythroid progenitor cells in the bone marrow. [2006]

1.10.6.

In people with anaemia of CKD, aluminium toxicity should be considered as a potential cause of a reduced response to ESAs after other causes, such as intercurrent illness and chronic blood loss, have been excluded. [2006]

Managing ESA resistance

1.10.7.

If aluminium toxicity is suspected in an adult, child or young person with anaemia of CKD having haemodialysis, perform a desferrioxamine test and review the management of their condition accordingly. [2006]

1.10.8.

Consider specialist referral for people with ESA-induced PRCA. [2006, amended 2011]

Role of blood transfusion in managing ESA resistance

1.10.9.

Consider referring adults, children and young people with ESA resistance to a haematology service, particularly if an underlying haematological disorder is suspected. [2015]

1.10.10.

Evaluate and discuss the risks and benefits of red cell transfusion with the person or, if appropriate, with their family or carers. [2015]

1.10.11.

Take into account the person’s symptoms, quality of life, underlying conditions and the chance of a future successful kidney transplant, in addition to Hb levels, when thinking about the need for red cell transfusion. [2015]

1.10.12.

Review the rate of red cell transfusion and consider a trial period of stopping ESA in people who have ESA resistance (typically on haemodialysis and on high-dose ESA) and are having frequent transfusions when:

• all reversible causes of ESA resistance have been taken into account and excluded and
• the person’s condition is otherwise stable (without intercurrent illness such as infection) and
• the person is receiving adequate dialysis.
  Review the rate of red cell transfusion between 1 and 3 months after stopping ESA therapy. If the rate of transfusion has increased, consider restarting ESA therapy. [2015]

Dietary management for adults, children and young people

1.11.1.

A specialist renal dietitian, supported by healthcare professionals with the necessary skills and competencies, should carry out a dietary assessment and give individualised information and advice on dietary phosphate management. [2013]

1.11.2.

Tailor advice on dietary phosphate management to the person’s learning needs and preferences, rather than using a generalised or complex multicomponent programme of delivery. [2013]

1.11.3.

Give information about controlling intake of phosphate-rich foods (in particular, foods with a high phosphate content per gram of protein, as well as food and drinks with high levels of phosphate additives) to control serum phosphate, while avoiding malnutrition by maintaining a protein intake at or above the minimum recommended level. For people on dialysis, take into account possible dialysate protein losses. [2013]

1.11.4.

If a nutritional supplement is needed to maintain protein intake in children and young people with hyperphosphataemia, offer a supplement with a lower phosphate content, taking into account the person’s preference and other nutritional requirements. [2013]

Before starting phosphate binders for adults, children and young people

1.11.5.

Before starting phosphate binders for adults, children and young people with CKD stage 4 or 5, optimise:

• diet (see recommendations 1.4.7 to 1.4.9 for adults)
• dialysis, for people who are having this. [2021]

1.11.6.

When offering a phosphate binder, explain to them and their family members or carers (as appropriate):

• the reason for offering phosphate binders
• the risks if they are not taken
• the side effects linked to phosphate binders
• when and how they have to be taken (depending on the type of binder), including the exact timing (before, with or after food) and the need to take them with food containing phosphate (including, for example, high-protein snacks). [2021]

1.11.7.

Take into account the person’s preferences on phosphate binders. [2021]

1.11.8.

If the person has problems taking the first phosphate binder offered, consider switching to the next recommended one (see recommendations 1.11.9 to 1.11.15). [2021]

Phosphate binders for children and young people

1.11.9.

Offer children and young people with CKD stage 4 or 5 and hyperphosphataemia a calcium-based phosphate binder to control serum phosphate levels. [2021]

In August 2021, this was an off-label use of some calcium-based phosphate binders in people not on dialysis. See NICE’s information on prescribing medicines.

1.11.10.

If serum calcium increases towards, or above, the age-adjusted upper normal limit:

• investigate possible causes other than the phosphate binder
• consider reducing the dose of the calcium-based phosphate binder and adding sevelamer carbonate or switching to sevelamer carbonate alone. [2021]
  In August 2021, this was an off-label use of sevelamer carbonate. See NICE’s information on prescribing medicines.

1.11.11.

For all children and young people who are taking more than 1 phosphate binder, titrate the dosage to achieve the best possible control of serum phosphate while keeping serum calcium levels below the upper normal limit. [2021]

Phosphate binders for adults

Review of treatments in adults, children and young people

1.11.18.

At every routine clinical review, assess the person’s serum phosphate control, taking into account:

• diet
• whether they are taking the phosphate binders as prescribed
• other relevant factors, such as vitamin D levels, serum parathyroid hormone levels, alkaline phosphatase, serum calcium, medications that might affect serum phosphate, or dialysis. [2021]

Bone metabolism and osteoporosis

1.12.1.

Do not routinely measure calcium, phosphate, parathyroid hormone and vitamin D levels in adults with a GFR of 30 ml/min/1.73 m² or more (GFR category G1, G2 or G3). [2008]

1.12.2.

Measure serum calcium, phosphate and parathyroid hormone concentrations in adults with a GFR of less than 30 ml/min/1.73 m² (GFR category G4 or G5). Determine the subsequent frequency of testing by the measured values and the clinical circumstances. If doubt exists, seek specialist opinion. [2008]

1.12.3.

Offer bisphosphonates if indicated for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in adults with a GFR of 30 ml/min/1.73 m² or more (GFR category G1, G2 or G3). [2008]

Oral bicarbonate supplements in the management of metabolic acidosis

Detailed advice on the management of metabolic acidosis is beyond the scope of this guideline. If uncertain, seek advice from your local renal service.

1.12.8.

Consider oral sodium bicarbonate supplementation for adults with both:

• a GFR less than 30 ml/min/1.73 m² (GFR category G4 or G5) and
• a serum bicarbonate concentration of less than 20 mmol/litre. [2014]

1. Creatinine-based estimate of eGFR – existing calculations

In adults, children and young people from black, Asian and other minority ethnic groups with CKD living in the UK, which existing eGFR calculations are the most accurate? [2021]

2. Creatinine-based estimate of eGFR – improving accuracy of calculations

In adults, children and young people from black, Asian and other minority ethnic groups with CKD living in the UK, what biomarkers or factors, other than ethnicity, improve the diagnostic accuracy of eGFR calculations? [2021]

3. Risk assessment for black, Asian and minority ethnic groups

What is the accuracy of the 4-variable Kidney Failure Risk Equation in adults, children and young people with CKD from black, Asian and minority ethnic groups living in the UK? [2021]

4. Managing anaemia – optimal Hb levels for children and young people

What is the efficacy and safety of different aspirational haemoglobin (Hb) targets for children and young people with CKD undergoing treatment for anaemia? [2021]

5. Hyperphosphatemia in people with CKD stage 4 or 5

What are people with CKD and their family members and carers views and beliefs about taking oral phosphate binders? [2021]

Cystatin-C equations

What is the diagnostic accuracy of cystatin-C equations to estimate GFR as a measurement of kidney function in adults, young people and children in the UK? [2021]

Investigations for proteinuria

In children and young people, what is the accuracy of reagent strips for detecting albumin in urine? [2021]

What is the effect of measuring proteinuria with albumin:creatinine ratio compared with protein:creatinine ratio on the timing of treatment changes in children and young people with CKD? [2021]

Frequency of monitoring

For adults, children and young people with CKD, what is the optimal monitoring frequency for albumin:creatinine ratio? [2021]

Risk assessment, referral criteria and shared care

What is the association between risk factors and CKD outcomes in children and young people? [2021]

What is the accuracy of the 4-variable Kidney Failure Risk Equation in children and young people living in the UK? [2021]

Frequency of review

What is the most clinical and cost-effective frequency of review for children and young people with CKD? [2021]

Managing anaemia

For adults, children and young people with CKD and anaemia, what is the diagnostic accuracy of eGFR thresholds of 60, 45, and 30 ml/min/1.73 m² for determining whether the anaemia is due to CKD? [2021]

For adults, children and young people with CKD and anaemia who are on peritoneal dialysis, what amount of intravenous (IV) iron is most clinically and cost effective in managing anaemia and its associated outcomes (including quality of life)? [2021]

What are the long-term consequences of high ferritin levels (above 800 micrograms/litre) in children and young people with CKD? [2021]

Phosphate binders

Which binders are the most clinically and cost effective in controlling serum phosphate in adults, children and young people with stage 4 or 5 CKD who are not on dialysis? [2021]

In adults with stage 4 or 5 CKD, including those on dialysis, what is the clinical and cost effectiveness and safety of long-term calcium acetate combined with magnesium carbonate for controlling serum phosphate? [2021]

Self-management of CKD

Does the provision of educational and supportive interventions to people with CKD by healthcare professionals increase the person’s skills and confidence in managing their conditions and improve clinical outcomes? [2014]

Antiplatelet therapy

For people with CKD at the highest risk of cardiovascular disease, what is the clinical effectiveness of low-dose aspirin compared with placebo for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease? [2014]

Renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system antagonists

For people aged over 75 years with CKD, what is the clinical effectiveness of renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) antagonists? [2014]

Vitamin D supplements in the management of CKD–mineral and bone disorders

In people with hyperparathyroidism secondary to CKD, does treatment with vitamin D or vitamin D analogues improve patient-related outcomes? [2014]

Management of anaemia of CKD with concurrent illness

What is the optimal management (in terms of clinical and cost effectiveness) of anaemia of CKD in people who are receiving erythropoietic stimulating agents (ESAs) and have a significant concurrent acute infectious illness? [2015]

Treatment of ESA resistance in people on haemodialysis

What is the most effective type of intervention to treat people on haemodialysis with ESA-resistant anaemia? [2015]

Why the committee did not make recommendations

Evidence on the specific eGFR equations or ethnicity adjustments seen by the committee was not from UK studies so may not be applicable to UK black, Asian and minority ethnic groups. None of the studies included children and young people. The committee was also concerned about the value of P30 as a measure of accuracy (P30 is the probability that the measured value is within 30% of the true value), the broad range of P30 values found across equations and the relative value or accuracy of ethnicity adjustments to eGFR equations in different ethnic groups. The committee agreed that adding an ethnicity adjustment to eGFR equations for different ethnicities may not be valid or accurate. Categorisations based on ethnicity lump together people with a diverse range of family backgrounds and differences in eGFR across ethnicities are likely to at least partly arise because of differences in average muscle mass between ethnic groups. However, muscle mass also differs from person to person within the same ethnicity and so making an adjustment based on ethnicity may be inaccurate for some people. Therefore, the committee agreed to remove the 2014 recommendation on how to adjust the CKD-EPI creatinine equation for adults of African-Caribbean or African family origin. The committee highlighted the 2008 recommendation, which states that caution should be used when interpreting eGFR and in adults with extremes of muscle mass and on those who consume protein supplements (this was added to recommendation 1.1.1). The committee made recommendations for research on appropriate eGFR equations for black, Asian and minority ethnic groups (adults, children and young people) in the UK (see recommendations for research 1 and 2). They agreed that factors other than ethnicity should also be explored as biomarkers.

The committee agreed that in the absence of good evidence for their accuracy, the 2014 recommendations that cystatin-c equations should be considered during diagnosis in certain circumstances, should be removed. In particular, they noted that although using cystatin-c equations may reduce false-positive results, it is likely to also increase false-negative results. This will avoid potentially misleading tests being conducted and the costs associated with these. They made a recommendation for research for a large study using UK data to evaluate the accuracy of cystatin-c equations (see other recommendations for research).

Impact on practice

There will be an impact on practice, as the adjustment of the CKD-EPI creatinine equation for adults of African-Caribbean or African family origin has been removed from the guideline. Only a small number of centres in the UK currently use cystatin-c equations regularly, so most should not be affected by the removal of the cystatin-c recommendations.

Return to recommendations

Why the committee made the recommendations

For children and young people with CKD, there was no evidence for the accuracy of measuring albumin:creatinine ratio (ACR) compared with protein:creatinine ratio (PCR) to quantify proteinuria. The committee discussed the recommendations for adults and agreed that, overall, these fit well with current practice and can be recommended for children and young people as well.

The committee discussed the eGFR threshold recommended for quantifying urinary albumin or urinary protein loss in adults without diabetes. They agreed that this threshold is not appropriate for children and young people because any reduction in GFR in this population would prompt measuring proteinuria. Therefore, for children and young people they set the threshold for creatinine as above the upper limit of the age-appropriate reference range.

The committee agreed to make a recommendation for research to identify the effect of measuring proteinuria with ACR compared with PCR on the timing of treatment changes in children and young people with CKD and the consequences of the delay in treatment changes on different levels of proteinuria. (See other recommendations for research.)

How the recommendations might affect practice

The recommendations are in line with current practice, so no additional resources should be needed.

Return to recommendations

Why the committee made the recommendations

The evidence showed that reagent strips were less useful to rule out than to rule in proteinuria. The committee highlighted that ruling out proteinuria with confidence was the main goal when using reagent strips. Therefore, they agreed that reagent strips should not be used to identify proteinuria in children and young people. The evidence was not reviewed for adults and so the committee agreed to retain the 2014 recommendation not to use reagent strips to identify proteinuria in adults unless the strips are capable of specifically measuring albumin at low concentrations and expressing the result as an ACR. The committee also highlighted that these tests are commonly used in clinical practice and agreed to make a further recommendation for further investigations in adults, children and young people with an incidental finding of unexplained proteinuria on reagent strips. Further testing is needed to confirm CKD by identifying other markers of kidney damage (such as ACR or glomerular filtration rate).

There was limited evidence on the accuracy of reagent strips for albuminuria, so the committee did not feel able to make recommendations. There were only 2 studies, and only 1 showed that reagent strips could be useful.

There was no evidence on the accuracy of reagent strips for haematuria in children and young people. The 2014 guideline (which did not cover children and young people) recommended reagent strips for detecting haematuria in adults. The committee agreed to extend this recommendation to children and young people, because the evidence for adults is likely to be applicable to this population.

How the recommendations might affect practice

The recommendations are in line with current practice, so no additional resources should be needed. The committee noted that if all dipstick tests are confirmed by laboratory testing anyway, there would be extra costs attached to using dipsticks as a first step, which were not justified by the benefits.

Return to recommendations

Why the committee made the recommendations

For children and young people, the evidence showed that acute kidney injury and solitary functioning kidney were clinically significant risk factors for developing CKD. The committee highlighted that solitary functioning kidney was not due to kidney donation but to nephrectomy secondary to congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract or to a lack of a kidney at birth or a non-functioning kidney.

The committee highlighted that there were other important risk factors for developing CKD in children and young people, but that no evidence was found for these. Based on their clinical knowledge and experience, they added ‘gout’ as a risk factor for adults and ‘low birth weight’ as a risk factor for children and young people.

The committee agreed that the frequency of monitoring (for developing CKD or progression) should be individualised for adults, children and young people. This is to address the different characteristics and risks that each person will have.

The committee agreed that more research on risk factors for developing CKD in children and young people would help to strengthen current guidance, so they made a recommendation for research. (See other recommendations for research.)

How the recommendations might affect practice

The recommendations are in line with current practice, so no additional resources should be needed.

Return to recommendations

Why the committee made the recommendations

Most of the evidence showed that with eGFR decline, the risk of kidney disease progression and mortality increases, and this risk increases with the rate of eGFR decline. The committee agreed this is observed in clinical practice and any person presenting with an increase in eGFR decline would be monitored more frequently. The committee reviewed the recommendations and agreed that they are consistent with the evidence and clinical practice. They agreed to clarify monitoring by stating that repeat assessment is to be agreed with each person with or at risk of CKD.

The committee agreed that the frequency of monitoring they recommended was a minimum level and that more frequent monitoring would be appropriate for some patients. This should also be guided by rate of change in eGFR or ACR and specific comorbidities, including diabetes. ACR monitoring should be individualised. For example, ACR might be monitored more frequently in people with high ACR (categories A2 or A3), or if a change in ACR would affect management.

The committee made a recommendation for research to identify the optimal frequency of ACR monitoring in adults, children and young people with CKD. (See other recommendations for research.)

The committee discussed whether specific recommendations are needed for children and young people with CKD and decline in eGFR, but agreed that this population would be referred to specialist care.

How the recommendations might affect practice

The committee noted that no changes had been made to the previous suggested monitoring schedule, and they believed it was relatively well implemented in clinical practice. Therefore, they were confident there should not be a substantial impact on practice from the new recommendations.

Return to recommendations

Why the committee made the recommendations

New evidence found a UK validation of the 4-variable Kidney Failure Risk Equation for adults, which can be used as one of the referral criteria (5-year risk of needing renal replacement therapy greater than 5%). The results of both the validation study and cost-effectiveness modelling undertaken for the guideline showed using this equation and threshold as a referral criteria (rather than an eGFR threshold) was likely to be both more sensitive and more specific than the criteria in the 2014 NICE guideline, meaning people who will progress to needing renal replacement therapy are identified earlier, and there are fewer unnecessary referrals to secondary care.

The benefits of this approach over using an eGFR threshold (as in the 2014 NICE guideline) were not large, but the committee agreed they were meaningful. They also agreed there were additional potential benefits of using the 4-variable Kidney Failure Risk Equation, including the ability to provide people with an individual risk assessment, which could help them to proactively manage their own risk, and inform the management plans in secondary care.

However, validation of the risk equation was only in adults, so the committee made a separate recommendation for children and young people. Black people were under-represented in the study and, although there was a sizeable proportion of people of Asian family origin, the location of the study suggests that people of east Asian family origin were likely to be under-represented. Therefore, the committee agreed to make recommendation for research 3 for validation of the risk equation in adults, children and young people from black, Asian and other minority ethnic groups living in the UK.

The committee agreed that it is important to discuss with a person with CKD what risk means. They added additional recommendations on providing information about risk, using jargon-free language, allowing enough time for discussions and documenting any decisions made.

How the recommendations might affect practice

If the 4-variable Kidney Failure Risk Equation can be built into laboratory computer systems, as part of how eGFR and ACR results are returned to GPs, there should be no difficulty in implementing the recommendations. Because the calculation requires both an eGFR and ACR value, it can only be produced if the GP requests both those measurements. These recommendations are intended to provide additional information to supplement eGFR and ACR values, rather than changing how often these values are requested by GPs.

There may be particular difficulties for laboratories that store eGFR and ACR values on separate systems that cannot automatically communicate. In this situation, calculations may have to be done manually. However, this is still likely to be a more efficient system than calculations being carried out routinely by GPs. Overall, the referral criteria are predicted to slightly reduce monitoring costs but, excluding costs associated with dialysis, overall there should be no substantial impact on resource use.

There may be an implementation period before the risk equation results are available to all GPs. Until then, some GPs may have to continue to base referral decisions on eGFR and ACR values independently, as is currently done, without providing patients with a quantitative assessment of their risk of needing renal replacement therapy. The faster these recommendations can be routinely adopted the less time it will be necessary for these 2 parallel approaches to both be in use.

Return to recommendations

Why the committee made the recommendations

Results from a meta-analysis (including the SPRINT trial) showed no meaningful difference between standard and more intensive blood pressure targets for adults with CKD. The 2014 guideline recommended maintaining systolic blood pressure below 140 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure below 90 mmHg. This is consistent with clinical practice and with the NICE guideline on managing hypertension. The committee noted that although there is limited evidence on blood pressure targets in people with CKD and proteinuria, it is important to maintain a systolic blood pressure below 130 mmHg and a diastolic pressure below 80 mmHg.

The committee agreed that none of the evidence they had seen warranted changing the recommendations. They also noted that intensive blood pressure targets only result in a marginal reduction in stroke and kidney failure, but put a large burden on patients in terms of polypharmacy and associated risks and side effects (such as falls).

The committee agreed that a useful target for blood pressure in children and young people with CKD and proteinuria is a systolic blood pressure below the 50th percentile for height.

The committee agreed that particular care had to be taken with people who were frail or who had multiple morbidities. However, the NICE guideline on hypertension already covers this group, so the committee did not make new recommendations.

How the recommendations might affect practice

The recommendations for adults are consistent with current practice and should not have an impact on resources. The recommendation for blood pressure targets in children and young people may have some cost implications, although the committee did not think they would be significant.

Return to recommendations

Why the committee made the recommendations

The interventions recommended are intended to improve a range of outcomes, including rates of progression to end-stage renal disease. There was evidence for adults, but not for children and young people. Paediatric experts on the committee agreed that the evidence for adults was also applicable to children and young people. Therefore, the committee did not make separate recommendations for different age groups.

The evidence for adults covered people with proteinuria or albuminuria, and included people with diabetes. This allowed the committee to make separate recommendations for people with and without diabetes. In the committee’s experience, many people with diabetes and CKD are frail, or are taking a lot of medicines, so they made a recommendation to address this.

How the recommendations might affect practice

The recommendations reflect current practice, so no additional resources should be needed.

Return to recommendations

Why the committee made the recommendation

There was limited evidence showing that eGFR thresholds below 60 ml/min/1.73 m² could be used to identify anaemia as being due to CKD. The committee questioned the applicability of this evidence because the studies did not rule out other causes of anaemia (which is usually done in practice).

The limited evidence meant that the committee was unable to recommend specific thresholds or probabilities. Instead, they used the available evidence and their expertise to specify ranges of GFR indicating that anaemia is more or less likely to be caused by CKD.

When anaemia may have other causes (such as gastrointestinal bleeding and certain cancers), investigating further will increase the chance of the real cause being identified and treated.

Clinical judgement is needed on how extensively to look for other causes when eGFR is between 30 and 60 ml/min/1.73 m². Healthcare professionals will need to balance the risks of:

• putting people through extensive and unnecessary investigations when their anaemia is caused by CKD
• missing the real cause of their anaemia by assuming it is caused by CKD.

The committee agreed that when eGFR is below 30 ml/min/1.73 m², anaemia is more likely to be caused by CKD. However, healthcare professionals should still use their clinical judgement and think about people’s circumstances when deciding whether further assessment is needed.

Only 1 study included people with diabetes, and no studies included children and young people. However, the recommendations still apply to these populations, because other causes of anaemia would be ruled out before attributing the anaemia to CKD.

The committee noted a need for further research on the diagnostic test accuracy of different eGFR thresholds, particularly for eGFR thresholds of 30 and 60 ml/min/1.73 m². They highlighted that in clinical practice, an eGFR threshold of 45 ml/min/1.73 m² can also trigger investigation into anaemia due to CKD, but limited evidence was identified for the diagnostic accuracy of this threshold. The committee made a recommendation for research on the diagnostic accuracy of these specific eGFR thresholds for determining the likelihood of anaemia being CKD related. (See other recommendations for research.)

How the recommendations might affect practice

These recommendations should not increase the cost to primary care, because they reflect current practice and act as cautions for healthcare professionals to explore the cause of anaemia. They may reduce costs by ensuring that the correct cause of anaemia is identified more quickly with appropriate investigations.

Return to recommendations

Why the committee made the recommendation

In the 2015 guideline, an aspirational Hb range between 100 and 120 g/litre was recommended for adults, young people and children aged 2 years and over. For children under 2 years, the Hb range was between 95 and 115 g/litre. These were based on evidence for adults. In 2020, the committee reviewed the evidence specifically for children and young people. The only evidence for this population came from a single small low-quality study, comparing the effects of a high and low Hb target on left ventricular mass index. No difference in effect was found. Given the lack of evidence, the committee agreed that the recommendations made in 2015 should not be changed.

The 2015 guideline recommended using the same target Hb range as adults for children and young people over 2 years, and a slightly lower level in children under 2. However, children and young people have different coagulation risks than adults, and are more prone to reductions in Hb from blood loss in haemodialysis circuits. In practice, higher Hb targets (up to 130 g/litre) are often used for children and young people. Because of the lack of evidence in this age group, the committee agreed that research is needed to inform future guidance (see recommendation for research 4).

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Why the committee made the recommendation

For people with stage 5 CKD who are on in-centre haemodialysis, the evidence showed that high-dose intravenous iron was better than a low-dose regimen at increasing levels of serum ferritin and haemoglobin as well as increasing the haematocrit. The committee agreed that the type of intravenous iron was not relevant and that there was no reason to recommend a specific preparation. They also highlighted that there are differences between iron preparations that affect their bioequivalence. Therefore, pharmacist advice is likely to be needed when choosing iron preparations. An example regimen for adults using iron sucrose was taken from the evidence to help guide practice. Ultimately, the choice of preparation should be based on local availability and policies. The committee agreed that children and young people should be given a high dose as set out in the BNFc, although they noted that use of intravenous iron preparations in children under 14 years was off label.

The committee was aware of a MHRA alert on intravenous iron and serious hypersensitivity reactions. The alert states that ‘intravenous iron products should only be administered when staff trained to evaluate and manage anaphylactic or anaphylactoid reactions – as well as resuscitation facilities – are immediately available.’ The committee agreed that intravenous iron should not be administered at home but recognised that this has a significant impact on people on home dialysis.

Most of the evidence was from studies with participants on haemodialysis. The committee agreed that more research would help to inform future guidance on intravenous iron for people with stage 5 CKD who are on peritoneal dialysis.

How the recommendations might affect practice

The recommendations are unlikely to lead to a substantial change in costs, as intravenous iron is relatively inexpensive, and there was evidence found in adults that use of high-dose iron leads to lower doses of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents being used, thereby offsetting any extra costs.

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Why the committee made the recommendations

There was a significant amount of evidence (of varying quality) for adults with stage 5 CKD who are having dialysis. However, evidence was limited for adults not on dialysis, and for children and young people. The committee agreed to extrapolate from the evidence for adults with stage 5 CKD on dialysis, so they could make recommendations for the other groups.

People’s preferences need to be taken into account when offering phosphate binders, because this could have an impact on adherence. The differences in phosphate binder formulations (for example, chewable and non-chewable) and the effect this has on how they are taken (before, with or after food) mean that people will often prefer one phosphate binder over the others. Oral phosphate binders are also unpleasant to take, and this might affect adherence as well. It is important to involve people in the choice of phosphate binder as far as possible, to ensure they are prescribed one they are happy with and can take as recommended.

The committee highlighted several factors that renal physicians assess at clinical reviews for people who are taking phosphate binders (including parathyroid hormone, vitamin D and serum calcium).

How the recommendations might affect practice

Replacing sevelamer hydrochloride with sevelamer carbonate may result in lower resource use, because there is a cheap generic version of sevelamer carbonate available.

There is currently variation across the UK in use of sucroferric oxyhydroxide. The recommendation on this phosphate binder may increase costs. However, this increase is unlikely to be substantial, because sucroferric oxyhydroxide is only recommended as a third-line option.

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