Evaluation and Management of Secondary Hypertension.

Hypertension is a major cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality globally. Many patients with hypertension have secondary causes of hypertension that merit further evaluation. For example, secondary hypertension can result in target organ damage to the heart, kidneys, and brain independent of the effects of blood pressure. Several causes benefit from targeted therapies to supplement first-line antihypertensive agents. However, secondary hypertension is often underrecognized. The goal of this review is to highlight optimal approaches to the diagnosis and management of common causes of secondary hypertension, including primary aldosteronism, renovascular hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea, and drug-induced hypertension.

The Effect of Behavioral Changes on the Treatment of Hypertension.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Hypertension is one of the leading causes of preventable premature death. RECENT FINDINGS: Strongly advocating for lifestyle changes to improve blood pressure control is of paramount importance in the successful management of hypertension. In this review, we will discuss the effect of various behavioral and lifestyle changes and review the evidence to support these changes to improve blood pressure control. These include dietary modifications, alcohol consumption, weight loss, various types of exercise, device-guided breathing, relaxation, and biofeedback techniques.

Chronic kidney disease in adrenal disorders.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review will focus on hypertension due to underlying adrenal disorders in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Diagnosis of adrenal hypertension and particularly primary aldosteronism (PA) in CKD is frequently not pursued. We outline limitations that advanced kidney disease poses on the diagnostic work up of these disorders and provide a framework for approaching CKD patients suspected of having an adrenal disorder. Recognition of these disorders is important as they are often underdiagnosed which leads to poorer outcomes. RECENT FINDINGS: Adrenal disease associated with hypertension in CKD is most commonly due to PA whereas pheochromocytoma and Cushing's disease are important but less common. Diagnosis of these diseases is important as their identification leads to better blood pressure control and can possibly mitigate the risk of progression of CKD. Work up and treatment of PA has been shown to be safe and is associated with less antihypertensive medication requirement for the associated hypertension and slower progression of CKD. SUMMARY: This chapter summarizes the importance of recognizing adrenal hypertension in CKD and reinforces the need for physicians to pursue these diagnoses in CKD patients as this is safe and improves both BP control and delays progression of CKD.

Nephrotoxicity From Molecularly Targeted Chemotherapeutic Agents.

The introduction of novel molecularly targeted therapies in the last 2 decades has significantly improved the patient survival compared to standard conventional chemotherapies. However, this improvement has been accompanied by a whole new spectrum of kidney adverse events. Although known as "targeted," many of these agents lack specificity and selectivity, and they have a tendency to inhibit multiple targets including those in the kidneys. Early detection and correct management of kidney toxicities is crucial to preserve kidney functions. The knowledge of these toxicities helps guide optimal and continued utilization of these potent therapies. The incidence, severity, and pattern of nephrotoxicity may vary depending on the respective target of the drug. Here, we review the mechanism of action, clinical findings of kidney adverse events, and their proposed management strategies.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Hypertension, and Cardiovascular Risk: Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, and Management.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Given the rising prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), we aimed to review the epidemiologic and pathophysiologic relationship of OSA, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease, and to summarize recent advances in the treatment of OSA. RECENT FINDINGS: OSA is associated with an elevated risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Several pathophysiologic factors contribute to the relationship between OSA and vascular risk, including neurohormonal dysregulation, endothelial dysfunction, and inflammation. While CPAP reduces blood pressure, it has not been demonstrated to reduce cardiovascular risk. The combination of CPAP and weight loss has a synergistic effect on blood pressure and several metabolic parameters. Adherence to CPAP is poor across studies, potentially contributing to the attenuation of perceived cardiovascular benefit from CPAP therapy. A greater emphasis on adherence to CPAP and the combination of CPAP and weight loss are central to reducing cardiovascular risk among individuals with OSA.

Anticoagulation-Related Nephropathy: The Most Common Diagnosis You've Never Heard Of.

Anticoagulation-related nephropathy might just be the most common diagnosis you've never heard of. It was formerly known as warfarin-induced nephropathy, until it was observed with numerous other anticoagulants and broadened to anticoagulation-related nephropathy. It is a potentially devastating disorder with serious and life-changing consequences if not recognized and diagnosed swiftly. As the clinician is faced with new acute renal failure, it is important to appreciate those factors that place patients at greater risk of anticoagulation-related nephropathy: conditions such as underlying chronic kidney disease patients and supratherapeutic international normalized ratio. Through greater understanding of this common yet under-recognized condition, we become better equipped to diagnose and prognosticate potential patients. Currently, there are no specific guidelines to follow regarding anticoagulation-related nephropathy identification and management; however, it is an entity that is important to remember, especially given the number of patients requiring anticoagulation for numerous conditions.