Correlation of C-Peptide with Creatinine and Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate Among Kidney Failure Patients in Nnewi North, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The increasing prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and its progression to kidney failure has become a major public health concern worldwide, particularly in developing regions such as Nnewi North Local Government Area (LGA) of Anambra State, Nigeria. CKD is commonly associated with metabolic abnormalities, including alterations in C-peptide levels. Understanding the role of these biochemical markers is essential for improving the management and prognosis of patients with kidney failure. Aim: This study evaluated the relationship between C-peptide, creatinine, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) as biomarkers of kidney failure among patients in Nnewi North LGA, Anambra State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study design was adopted involving 45 kidney failure patients and 45 apparently healthy controls aged 18–80 years. Anthropometric measurements, blood samples, and relevant clinical data were obtained from all participants. Serum C-peptide levels were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), while serum creatinine was determined using the Jaffe reaction method. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated using standard equations. Statistical analysis was performed, and significance was accepted at p < 0.05. Results: The results revealed significantly elevated levels of creatinine and C-peptide among kidney failure patients compared with healthy controls. Mean creatinine levels were 2.71 ± 0.88 mg/dL in kidney failure patients and 0.871 ± 0.24 mg/dL in controls, while C-peptide levels were 4.99 ± 2.52 ng/mL and 1.07 ± 0.98 ng/mL, respectively. Estimated glomerular filtration rate was significantly lower among kidney failure patients (27.15 ± 12.76 mL/min) compared to controls (118.84 ± 57.54 mL/min). No statistically significant gender differences were observed among kidney failure patients. Correlation analysis demonstrated strong negative relationships between eGFR and creatinine in both study groups. Conclusion: The study demonstrated substantial renal and metabolic dysfunction among kidney failure patients, as evidenced by elevated creatinine and C-peptide levels alongside markedly reduced eGFR. These findings emphasize the clinical importance of monitoring these biomarkers in the management of CKD and kidney failure. Recommendations: Routine assessment of C-peptide, creatinine, and eGFR should be incorporated into the clinical evaluation of kidney failure patients to enhance disease monitoring and treatment outcomes. Further region-specific and longitudinal studies involving larger sample sizes are recommended to provide more comprehensive insights into CKD progression and management in Nnewi North LGA and similar settings.