Acute thromboembolic occlusion of the renal artery in atrial fibrillation, treated with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and local fibrinolysis.

Abstract

Renal artery thrombosis is a rare and often unrecognized pathology, but with potentially serious consequences, especially in complete occlusion and involvement of both kidneys or the single functional kidney. It can cause renal infarction, renal failure, arterial hypertension. It is most commonly caused by an embolized thrombus originating from the left atrium and appendix in atrial fibrillation, but in-situ genesis is also possible. The atypical symptoms often lead to delayed or unrecognized diagnosis. The contrast-enhanced computer tomography /CT/, angiography, and elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) are used to diagnose the condition. On time treatment with anticoagulants, thrombolysis, endovascular or  surgical revascularization lead to preservation of the renal function. Prophylaxis with anticoagulants in the most common causes- embolization in atrial fibrillation, contribute to reducing the risk of renal infarction and thromboembolic recurrences with renal and other localization.