Anatomic renal artery stenosis
What is Anatomic Renal Artery Stenosis?
Anatomic renal artery stenosis (ARAS) is a condition in which the blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients to the kidneys become narrowed or blocked. This can lead to a decrease in the kidney's ability to filter waste and salt from the body, resulting in high blood pressure and an increased risk of kidney failure.
What Causes ARAS?
ARAS is often caused by atherosclerosis, a hardening of the artery walls due to a buildup of plaque. Plaque can narrow or block the renal artery, reducing the amount of blood that can flow to the kidneys. Other causes of ARAS include fibromuscular dysplasia, which is an abnormal development of the arterial wall, and renal artery dissection, which is a tear in the renal artery wall.
How is ARAS Diagnosed?
ARAS can be diagnosed using several different imaging tests, including ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scan, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Angiography, an X-ray procedure, can also be used to evaluate the degree of narrowing in the renal arteries.
What Are the Symptoms of ARAS?
The symptoms of ARAS may include high blood pressure, shortness of breath, swelling of the legs and ankles, and weight gain. Other symptoms can include increased urination, fatigue, and headache. In severe cases, ARAS can lead to kidney failure.
How is ARAS Treated?
The primary treatment for ARAS is to reduce blood pressure to slow the progression of the disease. This may include lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising, and quitting smoking. Medications, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers, may also be used to lower blood pressure.
Risk Factors for ARAS
Risk factors for ARAS include age, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, smoking, and a family history of the condition. Certain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and cyclosporine, may also increase the risk of ARAS.
Key Points
- Anatomic renal artery stenosis (ARAS) is a condition in which the blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients to the kidneys become narrowed or blocked.
- ARAS is often caused by atherosclerosis, a hardening of the artery walls due to a buildup of plaque.
- ARAS can be diagnosed using several different imaging tests, including ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scan, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
- The primary treatment for ARAS is to reduce blood pressure to slow the progression of the disease.
- Risk factors for ARAS include age, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, smoking, and a family history of the condition.