The relationship between some anemia parameters and hepcidin levels in cats with chronic renal failure

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common health issue in cats, leading to significant complications. Anemia, characterized by a reduction in the blood's capacity to carry oxygen, is frequently observed in cats with CKD, negatively impacting their quality of life. The mechanism of anemia can vary. In recent years, studies investigating the relationship between anemia and CKD, as well as the underlying mechanisms, have increased. In this context, there is growing interest in the role of a peptide called hepcidin. Hepcidin plays a crucial role in iron metabolism by controlling the absorption of iron in the intestines and its storage in the body. The primary aim of this thesis is to explore the role of hepcidin in chronic kidney disease and to elucidate the relationship between anemia parameters and hepcidin. In this study, anemia parameters and hepcidin values were determined in 10 cats with CKD and 10 healthy cats. A statistically significant difference in hepcidin values was found between the two groups (p < 0.001). Additionally, a significant relationship was observed between HBG and RBC values and hepcidin (p < 0.001), while the difference between HCT values and hepcidin was statistically significant (p = 0.004). The results emphasize the significance of hepcidin parameters in cases of CKD in cats.