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FACTS ABOUT RENAL ARTERY STENOSIS
What is renal artery stenosis?
Renal artery stenosis refers to a narrowing or blockage of the
renal artery. The renal artery supplies blood to the kidneys. Renal
artery stenosis can lead to kidney failure and high blood pressure
(hypertension).
What causes renal artery stenosis?
Renal artery stenosis can be caused by atherosclerotic disease (renal
arteries blocked with "plaque") or scar formation in the artery,
as illustrated below. A less common cause is fibromuscular disea
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| Artherosclerotic Disease |
se, which is more likely to occur in young
women. In this circumstance, fibrous tissue grows in the wall of
the renal artery, causing narrowing. Renal artery stenosis can cause
high blood pressure. Renal artery stenosis accounts for only 1 to
2% of all cases of hypertension. However, if significant renal artery
stenosis is present, hypertension almost always results.
What are the symptoms of renal artery
stenosis?
There are usually no symptoms. How is renal artery stenosis diagnosed?
Often, it is discovered by your doctor during the treatment of hypertension
that is particularly difficult to control. Renal artery stenosis
can cause a whooshing sound over the kidney, which your doctor might
detect while listening to your abdomen with a stethoscope.
Certain diagnostic tests and/or imaging procedures
can help detect renal artery stenosis. They include:
- radionuclide nephrogram
- kidney X-ray
- kidney CT scan
- kidney ultrasound
- renal arteriography
How is renal artery stenosis treated?
Treatment of renal artery stenosis depends on the cause of the disease
and its severity. In some circumstances, no treatment beyond routine
follow-up with your doctor is required. Antihypertensive medications
are used to treat high blood pressure. If caused by atherosclerotic
disease, your doctor will first ask you to address the risk factors
for cardiovascular disease, including diet, exercise, and stopping
smoking. Dr. Stratienko may suggest balloon angioplasty of the diseased
artery usually followed by stent deployment (see "Facts About Stents")
or surgical repair.
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