Management of Chronic Kidney Disease: Importance of early diagnosis and continuous monitoring

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a serious public health problem, affecting about 10% of the world's population. It is characterized by progressive and irreversible loss of kidney function, often caused by diabetes mellitus and hypertension. Early diagnosis of CKD is essential to slow its progression, improve patients' quality of life, and reduce treatment costs. Markers such as glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and albuminuria are critical for early detection. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted on advances in early diagnosis and continuous monitoring of CKD. The search included studies published between 2013 and 2023, indexed in the PubMed, Lilacs, and SciELO databases, using terms such as "Chronic Kidney Disease management", "early diagnosis", and "continuous monitoring". 20 articles were selected after applying strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, with the final analysis of the full texts. Results: The analysis of the selected studies highlighted the importance of solid protocols for early diagnosis and continuous monitoring in the management of CKD. The introduction of new biomarkers, such as Leucine-Rich α-2-Glycoprotein 1 (LRG1), complements traditional methods, offering more accurate detection of CKD. In addition, remote monitoring via telemedicine has been shown to be effective in reducing hospitalizations and improving treatment adherence, particularly in patients on home dialysis. The combination of these strategies not only improves patients' clinical outcomes, but also reduces the financial burden on health systems. Conclusion: The review highlighted the need for robust protocols for early diagnosis and continuous monitoring in the management of CKD. The integration of new biomarkers and telemedicine technologies represents a significant advance, allowing for more effective and economically viable interventions. Such practices can improve patients' quality of life and provide a more sustainable approach to health systems, aligning with public health objectives.