CENTRAL ASIAN JOURNAL OF NEPHROLOGY

The Central Asian Journal of Nephrology (ISSN 3105-4145) aims to provide a platform for the dissemination of high-quality research, clinical studies and expert opinions in the field of nephrology. It is dedicated to improving the understanding, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases in Central Asia and beyond. The journal aims to promote collaboration between researchers, clinicians and healthcare professionals to address the unique challenges in nephrology faced by the Central Asian region, because of its same cultural and environment factors, genetic background and similar healthcare models.

 

Call for Publications

The Central Asian Journal of Nephrology invites researchers from all over the world, clinicians, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to submit manuscripts that contribute to advancing knowledge and practice in nephrology, accommodating its regional focus and the specialized field of nephrology, while ensuring relevance to both local and international audiences.

We welcome original research, reviews, case reports, and methodological papers that explore all aspects of kidney health and disease. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

  • Prevention, diagnosis, and management of acute and chronic kidney diseases
  • Dialysis and renal transplantation
  • Basic science research in nephrology
  • Epidemiological studies on kidney disease burden
  • Public health and policy innovations in nephrology
  • Applications of data science, digital health, and AI in nephrology
  • Real-world evidence, patient-centered outcomes, and healthcare equity

The journal seeks to disseminate high-quality, interdisciplinary research that enhances clinical practice, informs policy, and promotes kidney health across Central Asia and beyond.

We encourage submissions that reflect regional insights, cross-national collaborations, and innovative approaches to addressing the growing challenges of kidney diseases.

Submit your manuscript today and join us in shaping the future of nephrology in Central Asia and beyond.

 

 

 

CURRENT ISSUE

Volume 1, Issue 2, 2025

(Ongoing)

Case Report
Acute Tubulointerstitial Nephritis in a Patient Post-Renal Transplantation
Central Asian Journal of Nephrology, 1(2), 2025, cajn006, https://doi.org/10.63946/cajn/16982
ABSTRACT: A 41-year old female patient who underwent kidney transplantation as an outcome of chronic glomerulonephritis came to the hospital with the signs of acute upper respiratory tract infection. As the patient further developed oliguria, peripheral edema, fever, and an increased BP, she was further relocated to the University Medical Center (UMC). Upon admission to UMC, signs of septic shock were detected, and acute transplant rejection was suspected, to exclude which kidney biopsy was performed and stage 3 chronic kidney disease (CKD) in allograft kidney was detected. Antibacterial treatment as well as pulse therapy were performed as patient had septic shock and tubulointerstitial nephritis (TIN).
Original Article
Population-Based Screening during World Kidney Day in Kazakhstan: Prevalence and Risk Factors of Reduced Renal Function
Central Asian Journal of Nephrology, 1(2), 2025, cajn007, https://doi.org/10.63946/cajn/17084
ABSTRACT: Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major global health challenge, yet population-based data from Central Asia are scarce. We conducted a population-based screening study to assess kidney function distribution and associated risk factors in Astana, Kazakhstan.
Methods: In March 2024, 636 adults were screened through convenience sampling at four major institutions in Astana. After excluding incomplete data, 569 participants were analyzed. Demographic, lifestyle, and clinical information were collected, and serum creatinine was used to estimate glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Reduced renal function was defined as eGFR <90 mL/min/1.73 m². Group comparisons and logistic regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors for reduced renal function.
Results: The median age of participants was 46 years (IQR 33–55), and 79.8% were women. Median eGFR was 92.8 (IQR 79.8–111.3) mL/min/1.73 m²; 54.1% had eGFR ≥90, 42.4% had eGFR 60–89, and 3.5% had eGFR 45–59. Reduced renal function was more common among older adults, females and those with hypertension and heart failure. In multivariable analysis, older age and female sex were independent predictors of reduced renal function. Awareness was low: only 15.0% of individuals with eGFR 45–59 reported having CKD.
Conclusion: This study provides the population-based evidence on kidney function in Astana, Kazakhstan. Reduced renal function was common, particularly among older adults. Findings highlight the importance of population-based screening and targeted prevention strategies to address kidney health in Kazakhstan.
Case Report
AA-Amyloidosis in an Adolescent with Familial Mediterranean Fever: A Case Report
Central Asian Journal of Nephrology, 1(2), 2025, cajn008, https://doi.org/10.63946/cajn/17421
ABSTRACT: Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is an autosomal recessive autoinflammatory disorder caused by mutations in the MEFV gene. It is most common among populations from the Eastern Mediterranean region, including Turks, Armenians, Arabs, and Sephardic Jews. One of the most serious complications of FMF is AA amyloidosis, which develops as a result of chronic inflammation and the deposition of serum amyloid A protein. AA amyloidosis frequently affects the kidneys, leading to nephrotic syndrome and chronic kidney disease.
We report a case of a 17-year-old Turkish male presenting with recurrent episodes of fever, joint pain, periodic skin rashes, and intermittent hypertension. Laboratory evaluation revealed nephrotic-range proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, low serum IgG, and elevated inflammatory markers. Renal biopsy confirmed AA amyloidosis with moderate interstitial lymphocytic infiltration and mild fibrosis. Genetic testing identified a homozygous pathogenic variant in exon 10 of the MEFV gene (p.Met694Val), previously reported and strongly associated with FMF.
This case highlights the rarity of such presentations and emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis of FMF complicated by AA amyloidosis. The patient remains on colchicine therapy with careful monitoring for potential complications; corticosteroids were gradually tapered following confirmation of amyloidosis, with supportive and symptomatic management continued.
 
Original Article
Study of the Prevalence and Risk Factors of Chronic Kidney Disease in the Kyrgyz Republic
Central Asian Journal of Nephrology, 1(2), 2025, cajn009, https://doi.org/10.63946/cajn/17472
ABSTRACT: Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an increasing global health concern and a major contributor to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Although its global prevalence is estimated at about 13%, data from Central Asia are limited.
Objective: To assess the prevalence, structure, and key determinants of CKD among adults in the Kyrgyz Republic.
Methods: A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted among adults aged ≥18 years across different regions. CKD was defined according to Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m² and/or a urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) ≥30 mg/g. Disease severity was staged by eGFR and albuminuria categories. Logistic regression identified independent predictors of CKD.
Results: The overall CKD prevalence was 10.8%, comparable to global estimates. Prevalence increased with age, reaching 25.0% among participants ≥70 years, of whom 64.3% had reduced kidney function. CKD was more common in women than in men (p<0.001). Major etiologic factors included diabetes mellitus (29%), chronic glomerulonephritis (23%), chronic pyelonephritis (17%), and hypertension (10%). In multivariable analysis, diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, obesity (BMI ≥30), and rural residence were independent predictors of CKD (p<0.05).
Conclusion: CKD is highly prevalent among adults in the Kyrgyz Republic. Risk factors align with international data, but regional patterns show higher rates of chronic glomerulonephritis and pyelonephritis. Strengthening early detection, integrating CKD screening into national health programs, and focusing on high-risk groups—older adults, women, and rural populations—are crucial to reducing the CKD burden in Kyrgyzstan.