Extract

Introduction

The kidney is both a cause and victim of hypertension. High blood pressure is a key pathogenetic factor that contributes to deterioration of kidney function. The presence of kidney disease is a common and underappreciated pre-existing medical cause of resistant hypertension [ 1 ]. Therefore, treatment of hypertension has become the most important intervention in the management of all forms of chronic kidney disease (CKD). For this reason, the forthcoming World Kidney Day (WKD) on 12 March 2009 will emphasize the role of hypertension for renal disease.

How does one recognize the presence of CKD?

In contrast to a decade ago, today most laboratories around the world report estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) instead of or in addition to serum creatinine. This now provides the physician with information about kidney function that is, in general, more informative. As a result, a greater percentage of patients with diabetes or hypertension and their physicians have a better knowledge of their kidney function. Assessment of eGFR as an index of kidney function should be complemented by assessing urine for protein or albumin (preferred).

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