A simple score for malnutrition–inflammation complex syndrome (MICS) is associated with the risk of mortality in Japanese patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis

Abstract Introduction Malnutrition–inflammation complex syndrome (MICS) is highly prevalent in patients undergoing hemodialysis. We determined the prognostic value of the Simple MICS score, calculated using a combination of age, body mass index, and serum concentrations of albumin, creatinine, and C‐reactive protein. Methods We retrospectively recruited 218 Japanese patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis. The primary outcome was all‐cause mortality, and the main exposure was the Simple MICS score. Cox proportional hazard regression analysis and logistic regression analysis were used to characterize the relationship between the Simple MICS score and mortality. Results During a median 4.4‐year follow‐up period, 56 patients died. Multivariable‐adjusted models showed that a higher Simple MICS score was associated with higher risks of mortality. The predictability for all‐cause mortality of the Simple MICS score was significantly better than conventional nutrition‐related indices. Conclusion The Simple MICS score can be used to stratify mortality risk in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis.