[Cardiovascular diseases in dialysis patients]

Cardiovascular morbidity and mortality are higher among dialysis patients than among the general population. The cardiovascular problems often exist before the start of dialysis. Their pathogenesis is multifactorial in dialysis patients also. The prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy is strongly increased. Adequate therapy may lead to partial remission. Cardiac ischaemia is frequent among dialysis patients and may occur without severe coronary artery disease. The prognosis of myocardial infarction in dialysis patients is poorer than in the general population. There is no proven difference between the various dialysis techniques regarding cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, while kidney transplantation may have a beneficial effect. Early diagnosis and treatment aimed at risk factors for cardiovascular disease are indicated.