Human hypertension due to thrombotic occlusion of both renal arteries: Report of a case “cured” by surgical removal of the thrombus

Abstract

Presented is a case of severe hypertension with frequent paroxysmal crises of hypertension and acute pulmonary edema on the basis of bilateral renal ischemia. Continuous intravenous treatment with large doses of Arfonad abolished the paroxysmal crisis and the pulmonary edema. Some unusual features of the response of the blood pressure to this ganglionic blocking agent are discussed and considered useful in the diagnosis of hypertension due to renal ischemia. Removal of the offending aortic thrombus which extended from above the entrance of both renal arteries to the terminal aorta was followed by a reduction in the level of the blood presure, profuse diuresis, and “cure.”