The Evaluation of Clinical Signs in Patients with Suspected Renovascular Hypertension

OBJECTIVE: Renovascular hypertension (RVH) is the most common yet correctable cause of secondary hypertension if diagnosed early. There are many clinical signs that can suggest RVH. The aim of this study was to find which clinical or laboratory signs are more indicative in diagnosing RVH and in determining which patients should go through renal angiography.

MATERIAL and METHODS: The study included 184 patients who presented to our clinic due to hypertension and were under risk of RVH. All patients underwent three-dimensional time-of-flight Magnetic Resonance Angiography with phase-contrast. The patients were divided into two groups as with and without renal artery stenosis, supported by MRA.

RESULTS: Advanced age, low body mass index, high serum creatinine level, presence of proteinuria, and patients with diabetes mellitus and coronary artery disease were found to be significant risk factors for RVH. Only the presence of renal asymmetry and the history of coronary artery disease were found to be independent risk factors.

CONCLUSION: In conclusion, detailed patient history and the evaluation of renal size are very important for patients with hypertension. Coronary artery disease and a difference in renal size of more than 1.5 cm could be strong indicators of RVH.