What is scleroderma renal crisis?

Scleroderma renal crisis (SRC) is a major complication in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). It is characterized by malignant hypertension and oligo/anuric acute renal failure. SRC occurs in 5% of patients with SSc, particularly in the first years of disease evolution and in the diffuse form.

How is Atheroembolic renal disease diagnosed?

The classic triad of a precipitating event, acute or subacute renal failure, and skin lesions, are strongly suggestive of the disorder. Eosinophilia further supports the diagnosis, usually confirmed by biopsy of an affected organ or by the fundoscopic finding of cholesterol crystals in the retinal circulation.

What is Atheroembolic renal disease?

Atheroembolic renal disease (AERD) occurs when small particles made of hardened cholesterol and fat spread to the small blood vessels of the kidneys.

What does Atheroembolic mean?

Cholesterol embolization syndrome (CES), also known as atheroembolism, or “blue toe syndrome” from its most peripheral manifestation, refers to the release of cholesterol crystals from ruptured atherosclerotic plaque in a large artery resulting in embolization to more distal small and medium sized arteries.

How is scleroderma renal crisis treated?

Once you’re diagnosed with scleroderma renal crisis, you’ll most often be hospitalized to start ACEI therapy. Typically, you’ll begin by taking a short-acting ACEI like captopril and rapidly adjust the dose to lower systolic blood pressure (the top blood pressure number) while avoiding too-low blood pressure.

Why is renal failure a complication of scleroderma?

The kidneys develop damage from the high blood pressure. Blood tests done during this phase show extensive evidence of widespread blood vessel injury with damage to blood cells and evidence of accelerated clotting. This syndrome progresses so rapidly as to be termed “scleroderma renal crisis”.

How does HUS cause renal failure?

Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a condition that can occur when the small blood vessels in your kidneys become damaged and inflamed. This damage can cause clots to form in the vessels. The clots clog the filtering system in the kidneys and lead to kidney failure, which could be life-threatening.

Is atherosclerosis a heart disease?

Although atherosclerosis is often considered a heart problem, it can affect arteries anywhere in your body. Atherosclerosis can be treated. Healthy lifestyle habits can help prevent atherosclerosis.

What is the life expectancy for someone with scleroderma?

People who have localized scleroderma may live an uninterrupted life with only minor symptom experiences and management. On the other hand, those diagnosed with an advanced and systemic version of the disease have a prognosis of anywhere from three to 15 years.

What is the life expectancy of a person with scleroderma?

Is hemolytic uremic syndrome curable?

More than 85 percent of patients with the most common form of HUS recover complete kidney function. However, even with full recovery, there is the chance for high blood pressure or other kidney problems in the years ahead.