Rubidium Deficiency in Chronic Kidney Disease and Hemodialysis Patients

The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasing worldwide. Renal replacement therapy reduces uremic intoxication and maintains the body’s internal environment. Maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) has helped thousands of people return to a nearly normal way of life, with improved social participation and integration. However, despite the advantages of prolonged life expectancy, hemodialysis (HD) has been found to cause essential element imbalances. There have been recent discussions regarding a potential rubidium (Rb) deficiency associated with chronic kidney disease. To examine the levels of whole blood Rb in advanced-stage CKD patients, not receiving HD, as well as in patients on MHD. A total of 120 hospitalized CKD patients (60 of whom are on MHD: HD group, and the rest are pre-dialysis patients (PD group) with the stage of CKD 3 or more who have never received HD) were involved in the study. The level of Rb was determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Our data revealed significant differences in whole blood rubidium concentrations between controls and both HD group (2685.03 µg/L vs. 1188.75 µg/L, p < 0.05) and PD group (2685.03 µg/L vs. 2023.51 µg/L, p < 0.05). Furthermore, HD group and PD group Rb levels differ significantly (p < 0.05) as well. Our findings highlight the need for careful monitoring of Rb levels in CKD patients, especially those undergoing MHD.