ABSTRACT
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate the relationship between microalbuminuria and arterial compliance in hypertensive and diabetes patients.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>A total of 200 patients with essential hypertension and/or diabetes were studied. Albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) was determined. Carotid to femoral Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV), C(1) and C(2) were measured by a Complier Colson device and DO-2020, respectively.</p><p><b>RESULT</b>(1) C(1) and C(2) were lower and PWV higher in high ACR group than in normal ACR group (P < 0.01). (2) In patients younger than 60 years, C(1) was lower and PWV higher in high ACR group than that in normal ACR group (P < 0.01). In patients older than 60 years, C(1), C(2) were lower in high ACR group than in normal ACR group.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The results indicated that compliance of large and small vessels in hypertensive and diabetic patients decreased with increasing ACR.</p>