Serum Electrolyte Profile in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease at Federal Medical Centre Yola, Adamawa State

Electrolyte imbalances are common and clinically significant complications of chronic kidney disease, reflecting the progressive loss of renal regulatory capacity. This study assessed the serum electrolyte profile of patients diagnosed with chronic kidney disease attending the Federal Medical Centre in Yola, Adamawa State, North East Nigeria. Seventy patients with confirmed chronic kidney disease across all stages were recruited alongside 35 age-matched healthy volunteers. Venous blood samples were analysed for serum sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, and creatinine using an automated electrolyte analyser. Clinical staging was determined according to the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes criteria. Descriptive statistics and ANOVA were applied for group comparisons. Results revealed significantly elevated serum potassium and creatinine, alongside reduced bicarbonate levels, in chronic kidney disease patients compared to controls. Sodium and chloride imbalances were more pronounced in advanced disease stages. Hyperkalaemia was detected in 38 percent of patients in stage four and five disease, posing a significant cardiac risk. Bicarbonate deficit indicative of metabolic acidosis was found in 45 percent of advanced-stage patients. The study concludes that electrolyte dysregulation is prevalent and stage-dependent in chronic kidney disease patients in Yola. Routine electrolyte monitoring and dietary modification form critical components of management in this population. Keywords: chronic kidney disease, serum electrolytes, hyperkalaemia, metabolic acidosis, Yola.