Pathogenesis and treatment of hypertension in polycystic kidney disease.
OBJECTIVE
Hypertension is common in patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. It may contribute to cardiovascular risk and to progression of renal failure.


RESULTS
Apart from fluid overload and renin activation, hypertensive patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease also have increased sympathetic activity, regardless of renal function. Sympathetic hyperactivity not only contributes to the hypertension but may also increase cardiovascular risk independent of blood pressure.


CONCLUSIONS
Treatment for normalizing blood pressure and sympathetic activity should be started early in the course of the disease.
Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, University Medical Centre, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Jutta
J
Neumann
Gerry
G
Ligtenberg
Inge H H T
IH
Klein
Peter J
PJ
Blankestijn
D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D016891:Polycystic Kidney, Autosomal Dominant / Q000150:complications*
D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors