Diagnosis and Management of Heart Failure in Long-Term Dialysis Patients.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Development of congestive heart failure as a manifestation of various cardiovascular ailments is not only an adverse prognostic factor for patients on long-term dialysis but its presence at the initiation of hemodialysis is another independent indicator of higher mortality.

RECENT FINDINGS

The literature reviewed included the most recent studies that assessed the prevalence, incidence, and risk factors associated with dialysis in the setting of congestive heart failure. Improving outcomes for patients with heart failure in long-term dialysis continues to constitute a challenge due to the complexity of these illnesses and the lack of clear consensus to guide diagnosis and management.