Desmond Y H Yap, Ronald C W Ma, Emmanuel C K Wong, Matthew S H Tsui, Esther Y T Yu, Vivien Yu, Cheuk Chun Szeto, Wing Fai Pang, Hung Fat Tse, David C W Siu, Kathryn C B Tan, Walter W C Chen, Chiu Leong Li, Wei Chen, Tak Mao Chan
Hyperkalaemia is an electrolyte imbalance that impairs muscle function and myocardial excitability, and can potentially lead to fatal arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. The prevalence of hyperkalaemia is estimated to be 6%-7% worldwide and 7%-10% in Asia. Hyperkalaemia frequently affects patients with chronic kidney disease, heart failure, and diabetes mellitus, particularly those receiving treatment with renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibitors. Both hyperkalaemia and interruption of RAAS inhibitor therapy are associated with increased risks for cardiovascular events, hospitalisations, and death, highlighting a clinical dilemma in high-risk patients...
February 25, 2024: Nephrology