Short daily hemodialysis and nutritional status.

Daily hemodialysis improves clinical outcomes in dialysis patients. This study shows the results of 10 patients who underwent short daily hemodialysis (SDHD) from 23.2 +/- 13 months and focuses on nutritional status under this strategy. With SDHD, patients had an increase in energy and protein intake confirmed by an increase in dry weight and lean body mass. Additional clinical improvement was obtained for blood pressure control, regression of left ventricular hypertrophy, correction of anemia, and better quality of life. These biological and clinical improvements are mainly the results of a higher frequency of dialysis sessions. The nutritional improvements with disappearance of anorexia are the consequence of general well being, less dietetic constraints, and less drugs prescribed. Short daily hemodialysis offers an adequate and more physiological strategy and may be considered for improving nutritional status in selected patients.