Renal control of BP and eryhtropoeisis

Question 1

What is pressure natriuresis

Answer 1

If perfusion to the kidneys is increased => more fluid is ‘pushed’ through the kidney => more excretion of sodium and water => lowers BP
Works with RAAS to maintain BP

Question 2

What is the normal blood pressure in a dog?

Answer 2

Systolic = 110-160
Diastolic = 60-90

Question 3

What is the normal blood pressure in a cat?

Answer 3

Systolic = 120-180
Diastolic = 70-90

Question 4

What is TOD?

Answer 4

Target organ damage
Hypertension causes damage to organs due to rich arterial blood supply
Most common in brain, eyes, kidneys and myocardium

Question 5

what are the guidelines for treating hypertension?

Answer 5

Treat underlying condition
Treatment of TOD
Antihypertensive drugs
Gradual decrease in BP

Question 6

List some drugs used to treat hypertension

Answer 6

Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor e.g., benazepril
Angiotensin receptor blocker e.g., telmisartan
Calcium channel blocker e.g., amlodipine
Direct vasodilator e.g., hydralazine

Question 7

Where is erythropoietin produced?

Answer 7

interstitial fibroblasts in renal cortex and outer medulla of kidney

Question 8

What is the function of erythropoietin?

Answer 8

Stimulates production of RBCs in bone marrow when kidneys detect hypoxia
Binds to receptors on erythroid progenitor cells in bone marrow => proliferation and differentiation into mature RBCs

Question 9

What is the implication of low erythropoietin production?

Answer 9

reduced RBC production => anaemia

Question 10

In what conditions do we see low erythropoietin

Answer 10

Chronic kidney disease - kidney function declines => reduced EPO production
Endocrine disorders e.g., hypothyroidism or adrenal insufficiency
Iron deficiency - impairs ability to respond to EPO