Etymed
renal artery stenosis
Definition
A pathological condition characterized by the narrowing of the renal artery, which reduces blood flow to the kidney
Clinical context
A 65-year-old hypertensive patient presents with sudden onset of severe hypertension despite multiple antihypertensive medications. The patient has a history of atherosclerosis and reports headaches and visual disturbances. On examination, a bruit is heard over the upper abdomen. Further imaging reveals significant narrowing of the left renal artery. This condition leads to reduced renal perfusion and activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, causing severe hypertension.
Mnemonic
RENAL stenosis = Renin causes REgulation of Nephron and ALdosterone