Kidney disease as a cardiovascular risk factor

Abstract:

Microalbuminuria (MA) is a hallmark of target organ damage, and it is well known that MA increases global CV risk as well as eGFR < 60 ml/min does. This was shown in diabetic and hypertensive patients, but also in general population. MA is in correlation with inflammatory biomarkers and with endothelial damage. The treatment goal in patients with CKD is to reduce the global CV and renal risk. Lifestyle changes (reduced salt consumption, normalization of body mass index, stop smoking...) present the first step, but also corner stone of successful treatment. If not contraindicated, drugs that blocks or inhibits renin-angiotensin system should be included in treatment schedule. Dyslipidemia and hyperglycemia must be cured in patients with CKD, and antiplatelet drugs should be considered as well. Serum electrolytes should be closely monitored and anemia has to be treated. Keeping in mind that growing evidence shows that new onset diabetes increases CV risk as well, it is necessary to very careful when choosing drugs. 

Key words:
chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular risk