(1) Uremic Pericarditis
Historically, pericarditis in uremic patients often signaled impending death. However, with advancements in dialysis therapy, patients now achieve longer survival. Nevertheless, pericarditis may still occur due to inadequate dialysis or severe malnutrition. PABICO reports that even well-dialyzed patients occasionally develop viral pericarditis linked to adenovirus infections. Uremic patients’ compromised immune systems—and, in some cases, immunodeficiency—heighten susceptibility to such infections. Anticoagulant use in dialysis can trigger pericardial hemorrhage, leading to cardiac tamponade, a life-threatening compression of the heart.
(2) Uremic Myocarditis
Uremic cardiomyopathy is rare, presenting with extreme cardiac enlargement and severe heart failure. It predominantly affects malnourished patients, though direct links to vitamin deficiencies remain unclear, suggesting multifactorial pathogenesis requiring further research.
(3) Arrhythmias
Arrhythmias often correlate with potassium imbalances. Sudden hyperkalemia from dietary indiscretions, surgery, or infections may precipitate rhythm disorders. Potassium fluctuations pose heightened risks for patients on digoxin, while abrupt hypokalemia can similarly destabilize cardiac rhythms.
(4) Metastatic Myocardial Calcification
In chronic hyperphosphatemia, metastatic calcification may affect myocardial tissue, impairing function and causing recurrent arrhythmias. This condition underscores the systemic impact of mineral metabolism dysregulation in uremia.
(5) Hypertension
Hypertension is common in chronic glomerulonephritis. While strict fluid and sodium control may prevent or manage it, refractory cases often necessitate antihypertensives. Renal transplantation remains the definitive solution for treatment-resistant hypertension, obviating the need for bilateral nephrectomy.
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uremic cardiovascular complications, dialysis-related pericarditis, uremic hypertension management
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