Atheroembolic renal disease

Alternative names:

atheroemboli - renal; atherosclerotic disease - renal; cholesterol embolization syndrome; renal disease - atheroembolic

Treatment:

Treatment goals vary depending on the manifestation of the disorder (asymptomatic, hypertension, arterial occlusion, renal failure, and so on) and the severity of symptoms.

Medications may include anti-hypertensives and medications to lower serum lipid/cholesterol levels. Anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications may be used to reduce the risk of clot formation (thrombi).

Other treatments for renal failure or other manifestations may be appropriate.

Self-care is important to reduce progression of the disorder.
Dietary changes may include reduction of fats and cholesterol. Renal failure may require restriction of protein, salt, fluids, or other dietary changes. Lifestyle changes may be recommended. Stopping smoking is extremely important, increasing exercise, weight loss, and others may also help.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome varies but is generally poor. The disorder is often chronic and progressive. Lifestyle changes may help to reduce the course of progression.

Complications:

• acute renal failure
• chronic renal failure
• hypertension
• malignant hypertension
• embolization of blood clots to other location of the body--brain, heart, lungs, and others.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if urine output decreases or stops, or if blood is seen in the urine.

Call your health care provider if severe abdominal pain or leg pain develops, unexplained ulcers appear on the legs or feet, or the toes turn purple and foot pain develops.