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.
Neumann
Jutta
J
Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, University Medical Centre, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Ligtenberg
Gerry
G
Klein
Inge H H T
IH
Blankestijn
Peter J
PJ
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