Current Appraisal and Gaps in Knowledge in Cardio-Kidney Metabolic Syndrome Definition
Alberto Palazzuoli1,2, Anna Vittoria Mattioli2,3, Francesco Fedele2,4
1Cardiovascular Diseases Unit, Cardio Thoracic and Vascular Department, Le Scotte Hospital University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|February 27, 2026
Summary
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) share common risk factors and a reciprocal relationship. This review explores challenges in CKD and CVD classification, assessment, and management, proposing a diagnostic fingerprint.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Cardiology
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Metabolic, renal, and cardiovascular disorders frequently coexist, with a strong link between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD).
- A reciprocal relationship exists between heart failure (HF) and renal dysfunction, where dysfunction in one organ exacerbates the other.
- Common risk factors include obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, which promote atherosclerosis and endothelial damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current challenges and perspectives in defining and assessing the co-occurrence of CKD and CVD.
- To highlight the need for a specific diagnostic and laboratory fingerprint for improved classification and management.
- To address unanswered questions regarding the classification, development, monitoring, and prevention of combined renal and cardiac dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on the relationship between CKD and CVD.
- Analysis of common risk factors and underlying pathophysiological mechanisms.
- Discussion of current diagnostic and classification challenges.
Main Results:
- The interplay between CKD and CVD is complex, driven by shared risk factors and pathophysiological pathways.
- Existing classification systems and management strategies for CKD and CVD may not adequately address their combined impact.
- There is a lack of reliable data on cardiac and renal outcomes across different stages of combined disease.
Conclusions:
- Improved understanding and classification of combined CKD and CVD are crucial for effective patient management.
- A specific diagnostic and laboratory fingerprint is proposed to aid in the assessment and management of these coexisting conditions.
- Further research is needed to address gaps in knowledge regarding monitoring and preventive strategies for combined renal and cardiac dysfunction.
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