The predictive value of CRP levels on future severe renal disease in overweight and obese subjects without diabetes mellitus and hypertension

BACKGROUND: Obesity and related disorders have a high prevalence all over the world. Increased C-reactive protein (CRP) value in obese individuals and its potential adverse effects have been reported. Here we have investigated the relationship between CRP levels and renal functions in nondiabetic, nonhypertensive, overweight, and obese individuals. The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of CRP levels on future severe renal disease. METHODS: One hundred sixty individuals were included in the study. They were grouped as normal weight, overweight, and obese. Anthropometric measurements, renal function tests, and serum hsCRP values were obtained. Mean values were compared and correlation analysis was performed. RESULTS: Significant differences were detected between the groups according to body mass index, waist circumference (WC), and body fat percentage. There was a significant difference with respect to creatinine clearance (CC). Difference in the mean urinary albumin excretion (UAE) was significant between normal-weight and overweight subjects. There was a linear increase in serum CRP values in parallel to the increase in body weight; mean values were significant between groups. A positive correlation was detected between CC and body mass index and WC, and there were significant correlations between CRP and anthropometric measurements, CC and UAE. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that increased CRP levels in nondiabetic, nonhypertensive, overweight, and obese individuals could possibly associated with impaired renal functions that might be originating from endothelial dysfunction. Determination of cutoff levels of CRP, as in cardiovascular diseases, may be useful for early estimation and prevention of renal diseases.