Estimation of serum zinc and electrolytes in end-stage renal disease patients on hemodialysis Erbil city

Background and objective: End-stage renal disease (ESRD), particularly in patients undergoing haemodialysis (HD), often results in altered serum mineral and electrolyte levels, which can lead to additional health complications. This study aims to assess serum zinc levels, electrolyte concentrations, and renal function markers in HD, providing a comprehensive analysis of these parameters for the first time in this population. Methods: This cross-sectional study, which included a comparison group, enrolled 65 ESRD patients undergoing regular HD at the Erbil Dialysis Centre and 65 healthy control subjects individuals from Erbil City. Information on dietary intake, medication use, and demographic factors was gathered through structured interviews, medical record reviews, and serum analysis, which measured kidney function biomarkers, serum zinc levels, and electrolyte levels. Results: Serum zinc levels were significantly lower, and potassium concentrations were notably higher in HD patients compared to the control group. Zinc depletion was more pronounced in HD patients with hypertension than in those without. These alterations showed a negative correlation with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) levels among HD patients, with hyperkalaemia being significantly associated with lower eGFR values. Conclusion: Monitoring serum zinc levels and electrolyte balance is crucial in HD patients, as zinc deficiency appears independently linked to hypertension. Addressing this deficiency may improve patient outcomes, through larger sample-size studies.