Cardiorenal syndrome

Abstract

To maintain homeostasis of the cardiovascular system, the heart and kidney act bidirectionally. Therefore, acute or chronic dysfunction of one organ can cause dysfunction in the other. This phenomenon is characterized as cardiorenal syndrome (CRS). Concurrent dysfunction of the heart and kidney adversely affects one another and eventually worsens patient outcomes through a vicious cycle. Although a CRS classification system has been proposed, the underlying pathophysiology is multifactorial and clinical access continues to be difficult. Although several therapies, including agents that target the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, have been utilized, there is not enough evidence to demonstrate their effectiveness for CRS. Thus, more effort should be made to optimize the diagnosis and treatment strategies for CRS patients. This review will introduce CRS as it is currently understood, discuss the pathophysiology, and examine management strategies.