Atheroembolic renal disease (AERD) can be defined as an inflammatory reaction in the small blood vessels of the renals (kidneys). When cholesterol crystals from atherosclerotic plaques break off and move to the renal, Atheroembolic renal disease occurs. Atheroembolic renal disease often results in irreversible damage to the renal tissue. In the severe cases, it may result in end stage renal disease. The alternative names of this disease are Cholesterol embolization syndrome, Atherosclerotic disease - renal, Atheroembolic - renal.
Causes of Atheroembolic renal disease
The source of cholesterol crystals (atherosclerotic plaque) causes Atheroembolic renal disease. The most common cause of Atheroembolic renal disease is atherosclerotic aorta. It begins when following direct mechanical injury to the plaque, causing the release of the cholesterol crystals into the blood stream.
Thrombolytic or anticoagulation has been known to agitate the plaques and produce cholesterol crystals. The syndrome may occur spontaneously, but in the rare cases.
Small pieces of plaque from atherosclerosis formation in other arteries of the body may break off and travel to the renal arteries, blocking blood flow to the kidney. Emboli may occur because of insertion of a catheter, surgery or the use of blood-thinning medications. Older persons are mostly affected by this disease.
Signs and Symptoms of Atheroembolic renal disease
The common symptoms of Atheroembolic renal disease are given below -
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1) Fever
2) Confusion
3) Abdominal pain
4) Diarrheas
5) Muscle aches
6) Skin lesions such as purpura
7) Weight losses
8) Kidney failure (either sudden or occurring over a longer period of time)
9) Mottling (discolored areas) of the toes and feet
the treatment of Atheroembolic renal disease is depends upon the severity of the symptoms. Medication may include to control the high blood pressure and to control the cholesterol levels. To reduce progression of this disorder, self care is important. You should take a proper diet (means low fat and low cholesterol), there is need to restrict salt, and fluids. Avoidance of smoking is very important .
Prevention
If you take some precautions then you can get rid of this disease easily such as -
1) Weight loss
2) avoid smoking
3) Take all necessary precautions to control diabetes and blood pressure
