Retrospective evaluation of the relationship between CRP / albumin ratio and mortality in patients undergoing renal replacement therapy

Objective: The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the relationship between C-reactive protein (CRP) to albumin ratio and mortality in patients undergoing renal replacement therapy. Materials and Methods: This retrospective, cross-sectional, multicenter study included 204 patients receiving hemodialysis between 2022 and 2023 in the nephrology departments of Süleyman Demirel University Training and Research Hospital, Isparta City Hospital, and Şehit Yunus Emre State Hospital. Patients were divided into two groups based on survival status: survivors and non-survivors. Demographic data, laboratory findings (CRP, albumin, hemoglobin, neutrophil, lymphocyte, etc.), and clinical records were reviewed. The CRP to albumin ratio was calculated. Statistical analyses were conducted to assess differences between the groups. ROC analysis was used to evaluate the predictive power of CRP to albumin ratio for mortality. Results: CAR levels were significantly higher in non-survivors compared to survivors (p<0.001). The area under the ROC curve (AUC) for CAR was 0.763, indicating its potential as a valuable biomarker in predicting mortality. Additionally, non-survivors had higher CRP, and lower albumin, Kt/V, and lymphocyte values. Conclusion: CAR was found to be significantly associated with mortality in patients undergoing renal replacement therapy. As it reflects both inflammatory and nutritional status, it may serve as a simple, practical, and valuable prognostic marker in clinical practice. Keywords: CRP, Albumin, Mortality, Hemodialysis, Inflammation