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Updated: Jul 8, 2026
08:50
Assessment of Vascular Function in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease
Published on: June 16, 2014
Association of aortic atherosclerosis and renal dysfunction
Milind Y Desai1, Deborah H Kwon, Deepu Nair
1Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195, USA. desaim2@ccf.org
Summary
Aortic atherosclerosis (AA) is strongly linked to declining kidney function. Severe AA significantly increases the risk of moderate-to-severe renal dysfunction, highlighting a critical relationship between these conditions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Nephrology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Aortic atherosclerosis (AA) and renal dysfunction are independent risk factors for increased morbidity and mortality.
- Understanding the relationship between AA and renal function is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between the severity of aortic atherosclerosis (AA) and the degree of renal dysfunction.
- To determine if AA is a predictor of impaired kidney function.
Main Methods:
- Transesophageal echocardiography was used to assess descending and aortic arch atherosclerosis in 200 patients.
- Patients were categorized into groups based on AA severity: normal, mild (<=4 mm), and severe (>4 mm or complex).
- Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was calculated to quantify renal function.
Main Results:
- Mean GFR significantly decreased with increasing AA severity (P < .001).
- Severe AA was associated with a higher prevalence of moderate-severe renal dysfunction (73% vs. 16%, P < .001).
- Aortic atherosclerosis severity and diabetes mellitus were independent predictors of severe renal dysfunction (GFR < 30).
Conclusions:
- A strong association exists between aortic atherosclerosis and renal dysfunction.
- Aortic atherosclerosis is a significant predictor of impaired kidney function.
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