Atheroembolic renal disease (AERD) is an inflammatory reaction in the small blood vessels of the kidneys.
AERD is linked to atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a common disorder of the arteries. It occurs when fat, cholesterol, and other substances build up in the walls of arteries and form hard substances called plaque.
In AERD, cholesterol crystals break off from the plaque lining the arteries. These crystals move into the blood stream. Once in circulation, the crystals get stuck in tiny blood vessels called arterioles. There, they cause intense swelling and pain that can harm the kidney or other parts of the body
The result is organ damage due to decreased blood supply. The kidneys are involved about half the tiome. Other body parts that may be involved include the skin, eyes, muscles and bones, brain and nerves, and organs in the abdomen. Acute kidney failure is possible if the reaction is severe.
Atherosclerosis of the aorta is the most common cause of AERD. The cholesterol crystals may also break off during aortic angiography, cardiac catheterization or surgery of the aorta or other major arteries.
In some cases, AERD may occur without a known cause.
The risk factors for AERD are the same as risk factors for atherosclerosis.
AERD may not cause any symptoms. If there are symptoms, they may begin suddenly, or slowly get worse over weeks or even months. Symptoms may include:
Kidney failure may result in:
The doctor will perform a physical exam. Swelling may affect the entire body. An eye exam may show particles in the small arteries of the retina.
The doctor will listen to your lungs and heart with a stethoscope. Abnormal sounds may be heard. For example, a loud whooshing sound called a bruit may be heard over the aorta or renal artery.
Blood pressure may be high. There may be multiple ulcers of the skin of the lower feet.
Tests that may be done include:
There is no treatment for artheroembolic renal disease that works well. Treatment is focused on managing the complications.
Medicines may be used to treat high blood pressure and lower lipid and cholesterol levels.
Your doctor may also recommend other lifestyle changes such as increased exercise or weight loss. Stopping smoking is extremely important.
The outcome varies but is generally poor. The disorder slowly gets worse over time. Lifestyle changes may help slow progression of the disease.
Call your doctor if you have:
You can alter the factors that increase your risk of getting this disease. You should lose weight if you are obese, decrease or stop smoking, and follow your doctor's recommendations to control diabetes or high blood pressure. Reducing fats, especially saturated fats, in your diet may help to reduce serum lipid levels.
Renal disease - atheroembolic; Cholesterol embolization syndrome; Atheroemboli - renal; Atherosclerotic disease - renal