A decade of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition

The renin system plays a critical role in hypertension as well as in the edematous states of heart failure, cirrhosis, and nephrosis. Properly performed measurements of plasma renin, with techniques now widely available, can be used as indicators of risk and of therapeutic strategies. The results of the plasma renin measurements are equally relevant whether they are high or low. The renin profile should be part of the routine workup of the patient with hypertension of any type or of the patient with an edematous disorder. Once the renin component of hypertension is established, management with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, such as perindopril, follows, for ACE inhibitors attack the pathophysiologic source, thus providing adequate perfusion and protection of vital organs. The role of renin's involvement in hypertensive states is elaborated, as well as that of the ACE inhibitors.