Prevalence of Anaemia and Review of Associated Factors in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Retrospective Analysis from a Single United Kingdom (UK) Centre

Background: Renal transplantation is the optimal treatment for end-stage renal disease (ESRD), offering superior survival outcomes compared to dialysis. However, renal transplant recipients (RTRs) remain at high risk of anaemia, which may affect graft function and patient morbidity. This study assessed the prevalence of anaemia and reviewed associated biochemical factors in RTRs with reference to British Transplantation Society (BTS) and KDIGO guidelines. The study was undertaken at a large NHS Trust in southwest UK caring for population of around 650,000. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of RTRs under active follow-up in our centre using data from the local renal database (VitalData). The most recent haematological and biochemical results from the previous 12 months were analysed. Anaemia was defined as haemoglobin (Hb) ≤110 g/L. Descriptive statistics were used, including proportions and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: A total of 318 RTRs were identified; 313 (98.4%) had complete full blood count data. The mean age was 57.7 ± 12.9 years, and 59% were male. Mean time since transplant was 10.1 ± 5.6 years. The median serum creatinine was 118 umol/L (IQR=95,163). 192 of 313 patients (61.3% ± 55.9-66.8%) were classed as CKD 3a-5 using eGFR. Table of results: Prevalence of Anaemia and Biochemical Abnormalities in RTRs Conclusion: - Despite suboptimal graft function in 61.3% of patients, anaemia prevalence was low (9.2%), indicating effective post-transplant monitoring. - Low serum ferritin was also low (4.0%), which could contribute to the low rates of anaemia in this population. - Folate (18.1%) and vitamin B12 (32.1%) deficiencies were common. - These deficiencies may contribute to elevated homocysteine levels and potential graft dysfunction. - Routine monitoring and targeted supplementation of haematinics should be considered to optimise graft and patient outcomes.Table of results: Prevalence of Anaemia and Biochemical Abnormalities in RTRs