Assessment of Biochemical Changes in Patients Undergoing Haemodialysis for Chronic Kidney Disease in Enugu

Haemodialysis is the primary renal replacement therapy for end-stage kidney disease in Nigeria, yet the biochemical adequacy of dialysis sessions and the management of associated metabolic complications remains suboptimal in many centres. This study assesses biochemical changes in patients undergoing haemodialysis for chronic kidney disease at a renal unit in Enugu, South East Nigeria. A cross-sectional longitudinal design was employed, monitoring 60 patients over a three-month period. Pre- and post-dialysis measurements of serum urea, creatinine, electrolytes, bicarbonate, calcium, phosphate, and albumin were obtained. Dialysis adequacy was estimated by Kt/V calculation and urea reduction ratio. Erythropoietin-stimulating agent use and haemoglobin levels were also monitored as markers of anaemia management. The study evaluates the extent to which dialysis sessions achieve biochemical targets recommended by the Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative guidelines. Nutritional biochemistry between sessions including pre-dialysis albumin and electrolyte trends was analysed. Findings will highlight biochemical management gaps and inform quality improvement in haemodialysis care in South East Nigerian renal units. Keywords: haemodialysis, chronic kidney disease, dialysis adequacy, serum electrolytes, Enugu.