Mortality and causes of death in patients with end-stage renal failure.

Using data from the Michigan Kidney Registry, the survival of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) was evaluated by multivariate analysis. Black patients had a significantly better outcome overall. A significantly worse outcome was found for older patients and diabetics, among both races and for black females. Causes of death were analyzed for dialysis patients and specific comments address discontinuation of dialysis leading to death.