Analysis of Calcium Balance in Chronic Kidney Disease

Subjects with normal kidney function are able to excrete in their urine the calcium and phosphorus absorbed via the gastrointestinal tract and are thereby are able to maintain calcium and phosphorus balance. Patients with chronic kidney disease often have normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus but no research has been conducted to determine if they are able to excrete their daily intake of these minerals. If they are not able to excrete their daily intake, these minerals could be deposited in soft tissue and blood vessels and contribute to the increased risk of cardiovascular disease seen in patients with chronic kidney disease. This study will determine if subjects with chronic kidney disease are in balance primarily with regard to calcium and at what level of kidney function they are no longer able to maintain balance. Understanding whether patients with chronic kidney disease are in balance will help direct future therapeutic interventions.