Chronic kidney disease and pregnancy: an interdisciplinary assessment of gestational risks and complications. A literature review

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease represents a heterogeneous group of diseases characterized by changes in the kidneys structure and functions. It significantly increases the risks of adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes. These risks increase with worsening renal dysfunction corresponding to an increase in the degree of proteinuria and arterial hypertension. Anatomical and physiological changes in the kidneys during pregnancy are characterized by dilatation of the pelvicalyceal system, a decrease in systemic and renal vascular resistance, and an increase in the glomerular filtration rate. These clinically significant changes can complicate the diagnosis of the renal dysfunction, as well as its progression. Pregnancy can affect the kidney as it can manifest as declining kidney function, especially in the context of concomitant arterial hypertension and proteinuria, while chronic kidney disease, regardless of the stage, contributes to a higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes including preeclampsia, premature birth and fetal growth restriction. Optimization strategies of pregnancy outcomes include strict control of blood pressure, treatment of hypertension and proteinuria, and prevention of preeclampsia. The latter is difficult to diagnose in pregnant women with chronic kidney disease. Serum markers such as soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 and placental growth factor may aid in definitive diagnosis. The choice of delivery mode in women with chronic kidney disease should be based on common obstetric indications. A multidisciplinary team, including an obstetrician-gynecologist, a nephrologist, an anaesthesiologist and a neonatologist, must focus on preconception medical care, antenatal care and treatment of pregnant women with chronic kidney disease for a successful pregnancy outcome.