Renal artery occlusive disease

Renal artery occlusive disease, from either atherosclerosis or fibrous dysplasia, may cause hypertension or renal insufficiency. Hypertension results from increased activity of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. There are several ways to evaluate this system as well as several pharmacologic agents that will intervene and modulate the hypertension that results. Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty or surgical revascularization will be necessary in some patients to control blood pressure or improve renal function. Successful evaluation and treatment of these patients are based on clinical experience, an understanding of the natural history of the various disease processes involved, and a comprehensive team approach.