[Hypertension in kidney failure and its treatment]

Hypertension is found in more than 80% of patients with terminal chronic renal failure. Its etiology is multifactorial, however sodium and fluid retention are decisive. The basic treatment involves attainment and maintenance of optimal "dry weight". Antihypertensive treatment is necessary in only roughly 30% patients. Hypertension after renal transplantation is most frequently associated with immunosuppressive treatment (steroids, cyclosporin), however, it is important to consider also the role played by chronic graft rejection and rule out stenosis of the graft artery. Severe hypertension complicates also some types of acute renal failure, while malignant hypertension may be its cause.