Efficacy of Dupilumab for CKD-Associated Pruritus in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis: Retrospective Observational Study

Background: Pruritus associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD) significantly diminishes quality of life and serves as an independent risk factor for mortality. Currently, there is limited evidence supporting the treatment of CKD-associated pruritus (CKD-aP). Methods: This study assessed Dupilumab's efficacy and safety in 12 hemodialysis patients. Baseline assessments were done using Worst Itch Numeric Rating Scale (WI-NRS) and Eczema Area and Severity Index(EASI). Patients received Dupilumab biweekly for 8 weeks. At week 8, a 5-point WI-NRS reduction defined responders. At week 16, EASI-90 response rates were recorded.Patient safety was monitored for serious adverse events, providing preliminary evidence for Dupilumab use in this population. Results: After 8 weeks of treatment, all but one patient experienced a reduction of at least 5 points in their WI-NRS scores. At week 16, 11 out of 12 patients demonstrated continued improvement, with an EASI-90 response rate of 83.3%. No serious adverse effects associated with Dupilumab were observed in any of the patients. Conclusion: Dupilumab consistently improves pruritus associated with chronic kidney disease in hemodialysis patients, suggesting its potential as an effective treatment option. Funding: Government Support – Non-U.S.The changes in patient's EASI (Eczema Area and Severity Index) improvement rate and the WI-NRS score after using DupilumabBaseline demographics and clinical characteristics