Cardio-renal anemia syndrome

Abstract

The interactions between the heart and the kidney have become an area of considerable interest, given their interdependence. This led to the definition and conceptualization of cardio-renal anemic syndrome, which includes a bidirectional interaction: acute or chronic injuries of any organ indiscriminately affect renal or ventricular function. Treatment involves blocking the rennin-angiotensinaldosterone axis and, during acute decompensation, dialytic support for volemic control. Anemia is due to multiple causesand must be treated promptly with intravenous iron and recombinant erythropoietin, to minimize the need for transfusions. Management, definition and prognosis of cardio-renal anemic syndrome are still controversial and represent a challenge for the modern internist