Reno-Cardiac Syndrome (RCS): A Clinical Review

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are associated with significant heart structure and function changes such as increased left ventricular muscle mass, arrhythmias, and sudden death. This interplay of pathophysiological phenomena secondary to either acute or chronic kidney disease leading to Chronic heart dysfunction is known as Reno-Cardiac Syndrome (RCS). RCS is an intricate forum between the heart and the kidneys due to the culmination of many interfaces, which are hemodynamic crosstalk between the failed kidneys and the heart. Changed neuro-hormonal markers and inflammatory molecular signatures are characteristic of the syndrome clinical phenotypes. Understanding the pathophysiological phenomenon in play for RCS is vital to improve therapeutic strategies to combat the cardiac pathological changes in CKD and ESRD patients thereby reducing morbidity, mortality, and improving the outcome of CRS. In this clinical review, we will discuss the pathophysiology and new advancements in RCS management. Potential areas of new research projects will also be elucidated.