Abstract
Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a growing national health challenge that is associated with systemic complications, including eye-related morbidity, which can markedly reduce quality of life.
Objectives: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of ocular manifestations among patients with CKD and to identify associated risk factors, including CKD stage, dialysis dependence, comorbidities, and sex.
Patients and Methods: We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study of patients with CKD who attended a private ophthalmology clinic in Amman, Jordan. Demographic and clinical data (eGFR, CKD stage [2–5], dialysis status, and comorbidities: hypertension, diabetes, and anaemia) were extracted from records. Ocular assessment included retinal haemorrhages, cataracts, hypertensive retinopathy, macular oedema, and uremic optic neuropathy, in addition to LogMAR-based visual acuity. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using logistic regression.
Results: Ocular manifestations were common, including hypertensive retinopathy (24.4%), retinal haemorrhages (17.1%), cataracts (14.6%), and macular oedema (7.3%). Dialysis was associated with uremic optic neuropathy (OR = 5.50) and retinal haemorrhages (OR = 2.80). Advanced CKD (stages 4–5) was associated with higher odds of retinal haemorrhages and increased risks of cataracts and hypertensive retinopathy. Diabetes was a significant predictor of retinal haemorrhages, cataracts, and hypertensive retinopathy, and hypertension was associated with more severe hypertensive retinopathy.
Conclusion: Ocular complications are common in CKD and are associated with disease severity, dialysis dependence, and systemic comorbidities. Integrating regular ophthalmologic screening into CKD care may help prevent avoidable visual impairment and improve quality of life.