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In Vivo, Percutaneous, Needle Based, Optical Coherence Tomography of Renal Masses
Published on: March 30, 2015
[Atheroembolic renal disease: a diagnostic challenge]
Francesco Scolari1, Silvia Turina, Chiara Venturelli
1Divisione di Nefrologia, Presidio di Montichiari dell'Azienda Ospedaliera Spedali Riuniti di Brescia, Montichiari. fscolar@tin.it
Insights
Atheroembolic renal disease, caused by cholesterol crystal emboli, leads to kidney failure. This multisystem condition, often linked to atherosclerosis, is frequently underdiagnosed.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Pathology
Context:
- Atheroembolic renal disease (AERD) is a multisystem condition.
- It results from cholesterol crystal emboli obstructing renal arterioles and capillaries.
- The kidneys are commonly affected due to their proximity to the aorta and high blood flow.
Purpose:
- To define Atheroembolic renal disease.
- To highlight its association with atherosclerosis.
- To underscore its underdiagnosis and need for further research.
Summary:
- AERD involves renal failure from cholesterol crystal emboli originating from atheromatous plaques.
- Embolization can be spontaneous or triggered by procedures and anticoagulation.
- It affects other organs and extremities besides the kidneys.
Impact:
- AERD is an underdiagnosed contributor to kidney disease spectrum.
- Increased awareness can improve diagnosis and patient outcomes.
- Further nephrology research is crucial for understanding and managing AERD.
Abstract:
Atheroembolic renal disease is a part of a multisystem disease and can be defined as renal failure secondary to the occlusion of renal arterioles and glomerular capillaries with cholesterol crystal emboli deriving from the aorta and other major arteries. The kidney is usually involved because of the proximity of the renal arteries to abdominal aorta (where the erosion of atheromatous plaque is most likely to occur), and the high renal blood flow. Cholesterol crystal embolism can also occur in other visceral organs, as well as in the upper and lower extremities. Embolization may occur spontaneously or after angiographic and surgical procedures, and anticoagulation. Atheroembolic renal disease is an important yet underdiagnosed component of the spectrum of kidney diseases associated with atherosclerosis and remains an unexplored field of nephrology research.
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