Open AccessCardiovascular, muscular and perceptual contributions to physical fatigue in prevalent kidney transplant recipients
Author(s) -
Chan Winnie,
Jones David,
Bosch Jos A.,
McPhee Jamie,
Crabtree Nicola,
McTernan Philip G.,
Kaur Okdeep,
Inston Nicholas,
Moore Sue,
McClean Andrew,
Harper Lorraine,
Phillips Anna C.,
Borrows Richard
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
transplant international
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.998
H-Index - 82
eISSN - 1432-2277
pISSN - 0934-0874
DOI - 10.1111/tri.12727
Subject(s) - medicine , physical therapy , quality of life (healthcare) , exertion , psychosocial , anxiety , muscle fatigue , physical medicine and rehabilitation , psychiatry , electromyography , nursing
Summary Physical fatigue is debilitating and common among kidney transplant recipients ( KTR s). This study investigated the mechanistic aetiology of physical fatigue in this setting through examinations of muscle mass, muscular and cardiovascular function, and perceived exertion. The incidence of physical fatigue, its association with quality of life (QoL), and the predictors of perceived exertion, were evaluated. This single‐centre observational cross‐sectional study enrolled 55 KTR s. Muscle mass was quantified using dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry. Muscular function was assessed by jumping mechanography. Cardiovascular function (maximal oxygen consumption and oxygen pulse) was estimated during submaximal exercise testing, with perceived exertion determined using age‐adjusted Borg scale‐ratings. Physical fatigue was measured using Multi‐Dimensional Fatigue Inventory‐20. QoL was assessed using Medical Outcomes Study Short Form‐36. Demographic, clinical, nutritional, psychosocial and behavioural predictors of perceived exertion were assessed. Of clinical importance, increased perceived exertion was the only independent predictor of physical fatigue ( P = 0.001), with no association found between physical fatigue and muscular or cardiovascular parameters. Physical fatigue occurred in 22% of KTR s, and negatively impacted on QoL ( P < 0.001). Predictors of heightened perception included anxiety ( P < 0.05) and mental fatigue ( P < 0.05). Perception is a key determinant of physical fatigue in KTR s, paving the way for future interventions.