Aim: The purpose of the study is to assess the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) using Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) formulae, and to estimate renal parameters including electrolytes in chronic alcoholics and compare all the parameters with normal controls.

Materials and methods: A total of 50 male alcoholics were taken for the study on admission to the deaddiction center in Father Muller Medical College and Hospital. All the serum parameters were analyzed in auto analyzer Cobas c 311, and qualitative analysis of urine was done using dipsticks. Statistical evaluation was done using Student’s t-test and Karl Pearson’s correlation coefficient.

Results: The mean estimated GFR (eGFR) in alcoholics of our study was slightly increased with an increase in 32% of alcoholics. A significant negative correlation of eGFR with age (p = 0.027) and urea (p = 0.039) was seen. There was a significant decrease in the levels of urea (p = –0.022) and potassium (p = –0.008). There was a mean increase in uric acid and decrease in phosphate levels. Qualitative analysis of urine showed proteinuria and hematuria in alcoholics with eGFR<110.

Conclusion: The study showed a spectrum of variation in the renal parameters assayed, with a significant decrease in urea and potassium levels. Validation of the findings by large-scale cohort studies is needed.

Clinical significance: There is a significant decrease in the renal function with variations in electrolytes and a decrease in phosphate levels. Some cases also had proteinuria and hematuria, indicating progress toward chronic renal disease.

Keywords: Chronic alcoholism, Chronic renal disease, Estimated glomerular filtration rate, Modification of diet in renal disease