Relationship between Prolactin, Chronic Kidney Disease, and Cardiovascular Risk

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Cardiology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health issue, primarily driven by diabetes and hypertension.
• CKD is strongly linked to high cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, influenced by traditional and non-traditional risk factors.
• Prolactin, a hormone accumulating in renal impairment, is increasingly recognized for its potential role as a uremic toxin and its association with cardiovascular outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the commonalities between chronic kidney disease (CKD), prolactinemia, and cardiovascular risk.
• To highlight prolactin's role as a potential uremic toxin and its impact on cardiovascular health in CKD.
• To synthesize current knowledge on the interplay between renal function, prolactin levels, and heart disease.

Main Methods:

• This is a narrative review synthesizing existing literature.
• The review focuses on identifying shared aspects and risk factors.
• Literature search included studies on CKD, prolactin, and cardiovascular outcomes.

Main Results:

• CKD, prolactinemia, and cardiovascular risk share common underlying etiologies and risk factors.
• Elevated prolactin levels are observed in CKD patients and are associated with adverse cardiovascular events.
• Prolactin's accumulation in CKD may contribute to its cardiovascular complications.

Conclusions:

• Prolactinemia represents a significant, yet often overlooked, factor contributing to cardiovascular risk in chronic kidney disease (CKD).
• Further research into prolactin's specific mechanisms in CKD cardiovascular complications is warranted.
• Clinical attention to prolactin levels may offer new avenues for managing cardiovascular risk in CKD patients.