[Is the Sodium Thiosulfate Therapy useful for vascular calcification in dialysis Pts?].

Vascular calcifications in uremic patients are associated with a significant increase in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Sodium thiosulfate (STS) has been shown to reduce the progression of uremic calcifications in haemodialysis patients. In our study we evaluated the effects on evolution of aortic calcifications of the drug infused during the last 2 hours of dialysis sessions at a dose of 10 grams. 18 hemodialysis patients were evaluated as regards the calcifications index according to Kauppila, calcium-phosphorus metabolism, PTH, and oral chelation therapy. The side effects of STS and the symptomatic effects reported by the patient, were also evaluated using a questionnaire delivered to patients. After 6 months of therapy, a modest reduction of the Kauppila's index (from 16.4 5.5 to 15.1 4.6) was detected. No significant change was detected in blood tests. Even chelation therapy did not suffer variations. It was also showed a clear and statistically significant improvement in signs and symptoms of leg pain, a moderate improvement of' power reserve and a reduction of muscle fatigue. The results of our study, although preliminary and on a small number of patients, confirm a positive effect of STS on vasculopatic symptoms and progression of vascular calcifications.