Investigators prospectively examined the association between the progression of retinopathy and kidney disease.

Study design

A total of 1,025 patients with chronic kidney disease enrolled in the multicenter, prospective Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort (CRIC) study were imaged at 2 non-mydriatic fundus photography sessions, 3.5 years apart. Images were reviewed by masked graders for both presence and severity of retinopathy as well as vessel calibers.

Outcomes

Participants with chronic kidney disease progression had a higher odds ratio of worsening of retinopathy compared with participants with stable retinopathy on univariate analysis (OR 2.24; P=0.005). In the multivariable analysis, the odds ratio was 1.62, but the difference between groups was not significant (P=0.20). The multiple imputation analysis revealed similar results.

Limitations

The study cohort did not undergo a complete eye exam.

Clinical significance

Progression of retinopathy appears to be associated with progression of chronic kidney disease on univariable analysis, but not on multivariable analysis. This suggests that similar risk factors may be affecting the progression of both retinal and chronic kidney disease.