Alternative Names
Renal disease – atheroembolic; Cholesterol embolization syndrome; Atheroemboli – renal; Atherosclerotic disease – renal
Definition of Atheroembolic renal disease
Atheroembolic renal disease (AERD) is an inflammatory reaction in the small blood vessels of the kidneys.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
AERD is linked to . 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.
Symptoms
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:
Signs and tests
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.
Treatment
There is no treatment for artheroembolic renal disease that works well. Treatment is focused on managing the complications.
Expectations (prognosis)
The outcome varies but is generally poor. The disorder slowly gets worse over time. Lifestyle changes may help slow progression of the disease.
Review
Parul Patel, MD, Private Practice specializing in Nephrology and Kidney and Pancreas Transplantation, Affiliated with California Pacific Medical Center, Department of Transplantation, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 5/20/2009
