Significance of High Plasma Renin Activity in Patients on Maintenance Haemodialysis Therapy

Abstract

Blood pressure and plasma renin activity were remeasured after an interval of 8 to 17 months in 16 patients on maintenance haemodialysis previously found to have high renin activity. Continuing intermittent haemodialysis changed the plasma renin activity and blood pressure but no consistent pattern was seen. This confirmed our previous finding that adequate dialysis can control blood pressure in the presence of high renin activity. We therefore conclude that bilateral nephrectomy should be approached with renewed caution.