Abstract
Chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology (CKDu) is an emerging entity in the South Asian region. This predominately affects the farming community belonging to the lower socioeconomic status. CKDu being a progressive condition often leads to end-stage renal failurerequiring renal replacement therapy (RRT). Due to the high cost and limited availability of RRT in many areas of geographical locations in India and worldwide, there is an unmet need to slow down the progression of CKDu. The intestinal microbiota is different in patients with CKD, with low levels of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria. Prebiotics and probiotics modify the intestinal microbiota and thereby slow down the progression. Soda bicarbonate therapy is cheap and cost-effective in slowing down the progression of CKDu in a subset of patients. There is also evidence of the beneficial effect of N-acetyl cysteine in early stages of CKD and it should benefit CKDu also. Dietary interventions to prevent dehydration, by providing uncontaminated drinking water, sufficient protein containing diet with adequate calories, and tailored salt intake to prevent hypotension, are necessary compared to other causes of CKD. The objective is to prevent malnutrition, and uremic symptoms. Early diagnosis and prompt intervention may delay the progression of CKDu in the early stages.
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