Serum Fibroblast Growth Factor-23 (FGF-23) Levels Are Independently Associated With Left Ventricular Mass and Myocardial Performance Index in Maintenance Haemodialysis Patients

Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) is a phosphorus-regulating substance. Circulating FGF-23 levels increase markedly in dialysis patients and are independently associated with increased risk of mortality. Given the fact that cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in dialysis patients, the aim of this study was to test if elevated FGF-23 levels might be associated with left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and left ventricular index of myocardial performance (MPI) in maintenance haemodialysis patients.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, plasma FGF-23 concentrations are measured using a C-terminal human enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit and echocardiography is performed in maintenance haemodialysis patients.

Serum FGF-23 levels will be measured in patients with a history of coronary artery disease and aortic valve calcifications.It will be searched whether patients with MPI>0.47 had higher or lower serum FGF-23 levels than those with MPI<0.47. Correlations will be examined between log FGF-23 levels and LVMI and MPI. Uni and Multivariable-adjusted regression analyses regarding whether increased log FGF-23 concentrations are independently associated with increased left ventricular mass index and increased MPI, will be performed.