EXPLORING THE ROLE OF SERUM MAGNESIUM IN VASCULAR CALCIFICATION AMONG CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE PATIENTS UNDERGOING HEMODIALYSIS

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) frequently develop vascular calcification, contributing to increased cardiovascular mortality. Magnesium (Mg), a crucial factor in mineral metabolism and vascular function, may influence the progression of carotid artery atherosclerotic calcification (CAAC). The objective is to evaluate the association between serum magnesium levels and carotid artery atherosclerotic calcification, as assessed by carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), in patients with CKD receiving maintenance HD. Materials and Methods: This prospective, cross-sectional comparative study included 82 CKD patients on maintenance HD. Serum Mg levels were measured, and carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) was assessed via ultrasound to determine CAAC presence. Various clinical, biochemical, and demographic factors were analyzed. Results: A high prevalence (50%) of CAAC was observed among participants. Serum Mg levels did not show significant correlations with CIMT or other blood parameters. Patients with CAAC were more likely to have diabetes mellitus (DM), and no significant differences were found in Mg levels based on demographics, comorbidities, or medication history. Conclusion: Despite the high prevalence of CAAC in CKD patients on HD, this study did not establish a significant association between serum Mg levels and CIMT or other measured parameters. Larger randomized controlled trials are warranted to further elucidate the role of Mg in vascular calcification among CKD patients. Keywords: Chronic