Glomerular filtration formulas to assess clinical and neuropsychological status in geriatric patients with chronic heart failure: a comparison of three formulas

Introduction: Impaired renal function is a common problem among elderly patients with chronic heart failure. It is related to prognosis and treatment. The most proper assessment of glomerular filtration in this population seems to be crucial, but despite technological advances, it is still relatively difficult. This study aimed to find the best glomerular filtration formula in the group of geriatric patients with chronic heart failure, which would correlate with their clinical and psychological status. Material and methods: The study was conducted in a group of 101 hospitalized patients aged over 60 with stable chronic heart failure. All patients were subjected to clinical and psychological evaluation. Obtained data were compared with the estimated glomerular filtration rate calculated by three equations (Cockcroft-Gault with adjustment for body surface area, Modification of Diet in Renal Disease, and Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology). Results: For all 3 formulas, statistically significant correlations were found between renal function and age, the New York Heart Association functional class, a period of hospitalization, N-terminal-pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, and a 6-minute walk test score. The widest range of values was found for the Cockcroft-Gault formula with adjustment for body surface area. The Cockcroft-Gault formula with adjustment for body surface area showed also strong associations with cognitive functioning. Conclusions: Renal function calculated by the Cockcroft-Gault formula with adjustment for body surface area highly correlates with psychological parameters among geriatric patients with congestive heart failure (CHF).