Can CBC profile and liver function test predict chronic kidney disease among a normal population?

Background: Kidney disorders are mainly diagnosed after a major decline in the renal function. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most common disorders of the urinary system defined by gradual reduction of renal function. Considering the silent nature and late diagnosis of this problem, this study aims to investigate the prevalence of CKD and its association with Complete Blood Count (CBC) profile and liver function tests. Methods: Out of the total population enrolled in the Tabari cohort study, 5822 subjects without history of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cardiac disease, renal failure, cancer, and pathologic obesity were selected. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was calculated using creatinine clearance as well as Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) equation. CKD was defined as GFR decline less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 regardless of its main cause. Results: Prevalence of CKD in total population as well as men and women was 20.2%, 16.8%, and 23.1%, respectively. Multivariate models showed the odds ratios for third and fourth quartiles of Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and also for the fourth quartile of the lymphocyte count as of 0.78 (0.64, 0.95), 0.81 (0.67, 0.99), and 1.22 (1.01, 1.47), respectively. Corresponding odds ratios for the fourth, third, and second quartiles of Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) were 1.42 (1.14, 1.77), 1.76 (1.42, 2.19), and 2.79 (2.27, 3.43), respectively. Conclusions: This study showed a high prevalence of CKD among the normal residents (without major underlying diseases and excessive obesity) in the north of Iran, especially among women. In addition, low MCV, low lymphocyte, and high BUN were detected as predictors of this disorder.