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Background. Ghrelin is a newly detected orexigenic gastric hormone that stimulates food intake. Increased levels of ghrelin are often found in disease states associated with wasting. Wasting is a common phenomenon in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients in whom elevated ghrelin levels have been reported. However, no data are available on the relationship between body composition and plasma ghrelin levels in this patient group.

Methods. The study population consisted of 108 (71 males) ESRD patients aged 53±12 years. Body composition, nutritional status (subjective global assessment), estimated protein intake (nPNA), plasma ghrelin, plasma insulin and serum leptin were evaluated close to the start of dialysis treatment. Twelve healthy subjects (nine males, 44±6 years) served as the control group. A longitudinal evaluation of changes in plasma ghrelin and body composition was …