Hypertension Pathology · Pathology

Which of the following is a key factor in the pathogenesis of essential hypertension involving the kidney?

  1. Reduced renal sodium excretion at normal pressures
  2. Excessive loss of bicarbonate in the urine
  3. Hypertrophy of the podocytes
  4. Increased sensitivity to atrial natriuretic peptide
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Correct answer: Reduced renal sodium excretion at normal pressures

A central theory in essential hypertension is that the kidneys require a higher-than-normal arterial pressure to excrete sodium loads. This 'reset' pressure-natriuresis curve maintains the hypertensive state.

Difficulty: Medium Question 18 of 20

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