Complications of Chronic Kidney Disease

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). In addition to the usual risk factors associated with this condition, uremic toxins may contribute directly to the pathogenesis of CVD in CKD patients. Because of the multifactorial pathogenesis, treatment of patients with CKD and concomitant diseases is essential. Arteriosclerosis and disorders of left ventricular (LV) structure and function are common in patients with CKD. In addition to the usual risk factors observed in the general population, CKD patients have numerous risk factors associated with CVD. The treatment of cardiovascular disease is a challenge in association with the treatment of CKD, as anemia, hyperphosphatemia, hypocalcemia and hyperparathyroidism cannot fully explain the broad spectrum of CVD observed in this patient population. To date, no study has identified an effective drug treatment to control cardiovascular outcomes in patients.