FGF23 in hemodialysis patients is associated with left ventricular hypertrophy and reduced ejection fraction

Abstract Background Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is known to cause left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), but controversy exists concerning its effect in dialysis. This study evaluated associations between FGF23 levels, echocardiography and prognosis in patients on hemodialysis (HD). Methods Patients >18 years on chronic HD were included in this cross-sectional study. Plasma C-terminal FGF23 concentration was measured with ELISA and transthoracic echocardiography was performed, both before and after HD treatment. Results 239 haemodialysis (HD) patients were included in the study. The FGF23 was median 3560 RU/ml (IQR 1447–9952). The mean left ventricular mass index (LVMI) was 110.2 ± 26.7 g/m 2 and the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was 52.7 ± 9.9%. Defined by LVMI, LVH was found in 110 patients (46%), of which 92 (84%) had hypertension ( p p p p p p p Conclusion FGF23 was positively correlated with LVH and negatively to LVEF. FGF23 was an independent predictor for overall mortality.