Atheroembolic Renal Disease

In the face of episodes of worsening kidney function in people with arterial disease, it is worth considering atheroembolic disease of the kidneys, in which small fragments of cholesterol plaques break off from the vessels and block the circulation within the kidney.

Common causes: It is usually related to advanced atherosclerosis and, at times, appears after procedures on the blood vessels.

Common symptoms: It may present with a reduction in urine volume, hard-to-control high blood pressure, changes in the skin of the extremities, and deterioration of the kidneys.

Which specialist treats it? The nephrologist and the internist evaluate the kidney involvement, while the angiologist or the vascular surgeon address the arterial component. If you have vascular risk factors and notice these changes, seeking an evaluation in time makes the difference.