ABSTRACT
End-stage renal disease is a major health problem with many complications. Previous studies emphasized the relationship of cardiovascular disease and mortality among these patients to dysregulated phosphate homeostasis. Even after successful renal transplantation, the risk is not eliminated. Several factors seem to interplay to regulate serum phosphorus levels after renal transplantation. Fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) is a hormone with the major function of inhibiting the reabsorption of phosphate by the renal tubules. Parathormone reduces the reabsorption of phosphate from the proximal tubule of the kidney. The aim of our study was to explore the changes that occurred in FGF-23 and intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) levels in a cohort of Egyptian patients undergoing renal transplantation and to examine the effect of these factors on posttransplant serum phosphorus levels. The study was carried out prospectively on 37 candidates for live-donor renal transplantation. Serum levels of calcium, phosphorus, iPTH, and FGF-23 were measured before and 6 months after renal transplantation. Statistically significant differences were detected in serum calcium, phosphorus, FGF-23, and iPTH before and 6 months after transplantation (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, and P < 0.001, respectively). The results also showed a statistically significant correlation between FGF-23 levels and phosphorus levels before transplantation. The interplay between FGF-23 and iPTH has an impact on posttransplant serum phosphorus levels.