NEW INSIGHTS INTO THE PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF RENOVASCULAR HYPERTENSION

In recent years, the pathophysiology of renovascular hypertension has been reviewed, and the classic concept that activation of the renin-an giotensin system is solely responsible for the development and mainten ance of renovascular hypertension has been challenged, In fact, experi mental evidence indicates that other systems, such as the lipoxygenase pathway, may have a more critical role in the long-term maintenance o f high blood pressure after renal artery stenosis, Herein we discuss t he intrarenal mechanisms that control pressure-induced natriuresis und er physiologic conditions and the role of the kidney in the pathophysi ology of renovascular hypertension.