Which is a common complication of chronic kidney disease?

• A. Anemia
• B. Hypercalciuria
• C. Hyperkalemia only
• D. Improved nutrition

Answer: (A)

Chronic kidney disease commonly causes anemia because the diseased kidneys produce less erythropoietin, the hormone that stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow. With less EPO, the marrow makes fewer red blood cells, leading to a lower hemoglobin level. This is often worsened by iron deficiency (from inflammation or blood losses during dialysis) and the shorter lifespan of red blood cells in uremia, so the anemia tends to be normocytic and normochromic. Although electrolyte disturbances like hyperkalemia can occur and other issues such as calcium/phosphate imbalances happen, anemia is the most frequent and characteristic complication. The idea of improved nutrition as a complication doesn’t fit CKD, since malnutrition is common in this condition.