Recurrent Pleural Effusion as a Result of Bilateral Renal Artery Stenosis. Does Renal Revascularization Help?

Abstract

Renal artery stenosis (RAS) is the leading cause of secondary hypertension. Renal artery stenosis can result in various cardiopulmonary complications mostly through activation of neurohormonal pathways that result in fluid overload and systemic hypertension. We herein describe a 72-year-old man with recurrent rapidly accumulating transudative pleural effusion in a patient with severe bilateral RAS. Patient pleural effusion resolved following stent placement with revascularization of the left renal artery despite absence of improvement of renal function. Patient renal function continued to decline and ultimately treated with fixed hemodialysis.