ROENTGENOGRAPHIC MANIFESTATIONS OF CHRONIC RENAL DISEASE TREATED BY PERIODIC HEMODIALYSIS

Abstract

The roentgenographic abnormalities in 33 chronic renal disease patients undergoing periodic hemodialysis are presented. The principal findings are subperiosteal resorption, osseous hypomineralization, and metastatic soft tissue calcification. These are described and discussed in relation to pertinent clinical, laboratory, and reference information. Minor joint changes are also observed, and it is speculated whether these are additional manifestations of metabolic bone disease or might represent early gout. Study of illustrative case examples suggests that metastatic calcification is related to elevation of the serum phosphate level. Hemodialysis, as practiced at this Medical Center, appears to be relatively ineffective in combating these associated changes on chronic renal disease. The results obtained with supplementary forms of therapy are described.