Carbamylated haemoglobin as a marker for predicting progression of renal failure

Renal failure occurs when one or both kidneys are unable to function properly. It can be classified into two types: acute and chronic. Acute renal failure is a sudden and temporary condition, while chronic renal failure develops gradually and can lead to permanent kidney damage. Acute kidney injury arises when the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste from the bloodstream effectively. This can result in the accumulation of harmful waste products and an imbalance in the blood's chemical composition. Previously, acute renal failure was referred to as acute kidney injury. Hospitalized patients, particularly those requiring critical care, are at a higher risk of developing acute kidney injury. Chronic kidney disease (CKD), also referred to as chronic kidney failure, is characterized by a persistent decline in renal function. The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste products and excess fluid from the blood to produce urine. In severe cases of chronic kidney disease, the body accumulates harmful levels of fluids, electrolytes, and waste products. While creatinine, urea, uric acid, and electrolytes are commonly analyzed as markers of kidney function, numerous studies have highlighted and validated the importance of alternative markers such as cystatin C and β-Trace Protein. Isocyanic acid reacts with the amino groups in haemoglobin to form Carbamylated Haemoglobin (CarHb). In the body, isocyanic acid is produced as a byproduct of urea dissociation. Patients with renal failure exhibit higher levels of Carbamylated Haemoglobin compared to healthy individuals. Furthermore, CarHb levels are lower in patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) than in those with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This indicates that as kidney disease progresses from an acute to a chronic stage, Carbamylated Haemoglobin levels increase. Therefore, Carbamylated Haemoglobin can serve as a potential marker for predicting the progression of renal failure