This podcast explores the effectiveness of ACE inhibitors in treating scleroderma renal crisis, highlighting the reduction in mortality rates. It delves into the mechanisms of bilateral nephrectomy and ACE inhibitors in the disease. The physiology of scleroderma crisis and potential treatment options are discussed, including the discovery of Capripl through ACE inhibition. The use of ACE inhibitors in managing vasoconstriction associated with elevated renin levels is also explored.
ACE inhibitors effectively treat scleroderma renal crisis by addressing vasoconstriction caused by elevated renin levels.
Before the availability of ACE inhibitors, bilateral nephrectomy was used as a treatment for scleroderma renal crisis, but with limited success.
Deep dives
Improved Survival with ACE Inhibitors in Scleroderma Renal Crisis
The use of ACE inhibitors has greatly improved the survival of patients with scleroderma renal crisis. The condition is associated with elevated renin levels, and ACE inhibitors address the resulting vasoconstriction.
Role of Renin Levels in Scleroderma Renal Crisis
In scleroderma renal crisis, the kidneys are both victims and instigators. Renin levels are elevated due to a cascade of events triggered by endothelial injury and arterial narrowing. The high renin levels contribute to severe hypertension and further renal damage.
Early Trials of ACE Inhibitors and Bilateral Nephrectomy
Before ACE inhibitors were available, bilateral nephrectomy was used as a treatment for scleroderma renal crisis, but with limited success. ACE inhibitors, such as Caprylic, were synthesized in the 1970s and quickly proved to be highly effective in reducing mortality. ACE inhibitors became the standard of care, surpassing the need for nephrectomy.
In this episode, we explore why ACE inhibitors treat scleroderma renal crisis so effectively (and why bilateral nephrectomy used to be the treatment of choice…).
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