Is the Model for End-stage Liver Disease score potentially a useful predictor of hyperkalemia occurrence among hospitalized angiotensin receptor blocker users?
The MELD score was significantly different between the hyperkalemic and non-hyperkalemic groups (independent t-test, P < 0.001). The MELD score 10-14, 15-19 and ≥ 20 groups showed higher risks of hyperkalemia than the lowest MELD score group {log-rank test, P < 0.001; multiple Cox proportional hazard model, hazard ratios 1.478 (P = 0.003), 2.285 (P < 0.001) and 3.024 (P < 0.001), respectively}.
The present data support the rationale of vitamin D supplementation in the routine clinical management of HIV-1-infected patients, in order to decrease immune activation levels and possibly improve long-term survival.