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Updated: Sep 29, 2026

Use of Ultra-high Field MRI in Small Rodent Models of Polycystic Kidney Disease for In Vivo Phenotyping and Drug Monitoring
Published on: June 23, 2015
Pathogenesis and treatment of hypertension in polycystic kidney disease
Jutta Neumann1, Gerry Ligtenberg, Inge H H T Klein
1Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, University Medical Centre, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Purpose Of Review:
Hypertension is common in patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. It may contribute to cardiovascular risk and to progression of renal failure.
Recent Findings:
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.
Summary:
Treatment for normalizing blood pressure and sympathetic activity should be started early in the course of the disease.
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