| [ Summary ] |
In Japan, more than half of the patients who receive dialysis treatment are elderly, 65 years-old or greater. A major number of new dialysis patients are elderly. Compared to younger patients, the indices of physical constitution and nutritional state of elderly patients are lower. There are no differences in the indices of excess fl uid or electrolytes disorders. Elderly patients tend to tolerate initial dialysis treatment as well as younger patients. Comparing renal function at dialysis initiation, the levels of serum creatinine are lower in elderly patients. However, no significant differences have been confirmed between eGFR and Ccr. Renal function at the initiation of dialysis is not different in younger versus elderly patients. |