Renoprotective effects of Vitamin D and renin-angiotensin system.

Vitamin D has many physiological functions. First it is a primary regulator of calcium homeostasis. Beyond that, vitamin D and its receptors (VDR) play important role in the immune system, cardiovascular system, reproductive system and insulin resistance.

Urinary tract infections in polycystic kidney disease.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the bacteriological findings and the frequency of urinary tract infections in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease and their impact on renal function.

Methods: One hundred eighty patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease were studied from 2003 to 2008. Subjects were considered as having urinary tract infections if they had had one or more episodes of urinary infection.

The influence of renal manifestations to the progression of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease.

Background: Renal stones, urinary tract infections (UTI) and gross hematuria (GH) are the most important renal manifestations of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). They are not only common, but are also frequent cause of morbidity, influencing renal dysfunction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of these manifestations in our patients with ADPKD and their impact on renal function.

Microalbuminuria, is it so important?

Microalbuminuria (defined as urinary albumin excretion of 30-300 mg/day, or 20-200 microg/min) is an earlier sign of vascular damage. It is a marker of general vascular dysfunction and nowadays is considered a predictor of worse outcomes for both kidney and heart patients. There is a significant correlation between blood pressure and microalbuminuria.