Kidney disease runs in families: early detection of albuminuria in first-degree relatives of patients with end-stage renal disease

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of albuminuria in first-degree relatives of patients undergoing hemodialysis for end-stage renal disease. First-degree relatives of patients with end-stage renal disease are at increased risk of early kidney damage. Albuminuria is a sensitive biomarker of asymptomatic renal injury and allows timely preventive interventions.

Method: Cross-sectional, observational and unicentric study conducted at the Regional Center for Kidney Diseases, Dr. José Eleuterio González University Hospital. Forty-five first-degree relatives aged ≥18 years were included. Clinical data, comorbidity, anthropometric measurements, estimated glomerular filtration rate and albuminuria were assessed using urine dipsticks and the quantitative Getein 1100 analyzer (≥ 20 mg/dL). Statistical analysis was performed using Python v3.13, including descriptive statistics, group comparisons, and correlation analysis.

Results: In the 45 participants, the prevalence of albuminuria was 22.2% (n = 10). Most participants were female (84.4%, n = 38), with albuminuria in 23.7% (n = 9) versus 14.3% (n = 1) in males. Hypertension and type 2 diabetes were each present in 28.9% (n = 13) of participants. Urine dipsticks showed 50% sensitivity, 91.4% specificity, and 82.2% overall accuracy compared to the Getein 1100 analyzer. A negative correlation was observed between body mass index and estimated glomerular filtration rate.

Conclusions: First-degree relatives of patients with end-stage renal disease have a high risk of renal damage. Early detection through albuminuria screening allows the implementation of preventive strategies in primary care and may help delay disease progression.