| [ Summary ] |
Coronary artery calcification, which is related to secondary hyperparathyroidism, has been reported to influence mortality and complications associated with cardiovascular diseases in end stage renal failure patients. On the other hand, we have been able to use the new phosphate binder, "sevelamer", dosages of which do not contain calcium. We will be able to use calcimimetics for secondary hyperparathyroidism soon. Thus, we should evaluate bone diseases, as well as cardiovascular diseases, according to changes in paradigms for renal osteodystrophy. Undoubtedly imaging methods play a main role in the management of complications in end stage renal failure patients. Multidetector-row CT (MDCT) is a most useful imaging method, which has high temporal resolution and high spatial resolution. It is expected that MDCT will take the place of coronary artery angiography in evaluating coronary artery calcification. |