Renal (kidney) artery stenosis
About Renal (kidney) artery stenosis
A narrowing in the diameter of the renal arteries. The decreased blood flow to the kidneys may lead to high blood pressure (hypertension). The main cause of the narrowing is atherosclerosis, other more rare causes include fibromuscular dysplasia (a variation of blood vessel shape), inflammation of the arteries (vasculitis) and dissection of the artery (a tearing of the vessel).Symptoms
There are usually no symptoms. Elevated blood pressure that is difficult to control can be an early sign.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to establish the diagnosis and define the damage done may include: blood tests to measure the hormones `rennin` and `aldosterone,` CT scan, radionuclide scan of the kidneys, renal arteriogram, renal perfusion scintiscan, urine concentration test.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, MRI, Urinalysis (UA), Ultrasound.
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. It is often not worth treating this problem, except to carefully control the blood pressure. Options to increase blood flow to the kidney include balloon angioplasty and/or surgery. Blood pressure medications are given to control the hypertension. For additional information contact the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse at: http://www.kidney.niddk.nih.gov or call (800)891-5390.Medical specialties
Nephrology · Pediatric Nephrology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Renal (kidney) artery stenosis.