BACKGROUND: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by progressive renal injury with inevitable functional deterioration. This functional loss is usually slow, progressive and irreversible. CKD can profoundly influence the daily routines of pediatric patients and their families, requiring significant social adaptation by both patient and family. CKD is a risk factor for psychosocial and psychiatric impairments.
OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of psychosocial and behavioral problems in patient with CKD.
METHODS: This descriptive study included 94 CKD patients who routinely followed-up at the Pediatric Nephrology Outpatient Department. The consecutive sample included patient who fulfilled the following criteria: aged 11-17 years; diagnosed with CKD minimum 3 months before the study was conducted; informed consent provided by both patient and a parent. Demographic and clinical data were collected. The data included: CKD etiology; stage; duration of illness; treatment; parents’ educational status. Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) was used as assessment tool to detect psychosocial and behavioral problem. Patients were asked to complete the self-report version of the SDQ.
RESULTS: 94 children enrolled in the study; 64.9% were less than 14 years old, 58.5% were female and majority of the parents were elementary school graduate. 93.6% CKD were caused by glomerular disease and 60.6% were in Stage I. Psychosocial-behavioral problems were found in 45.7% patient, with the emotional disorders being the highest prevalence (27.7%).
CONCLUSION:  Psychosocial-behavioral problem was found in 45.7% adolescents with CKD. Therefore, our study suggests the importance of behavioral disorder evaluation to provide an optimal and holistic care.