Dyslipidemia in chronic kidney disease: pathogenesis and intervention

Dyslipidemia is a known cardiovascular risk factor in subjects without kidney disease. In patients with kidney disease, however, the relation of dyslipidemia to cardiovascular risk is confounded and the underlying pathomechanisms are complex. Statins have proven to be highly effective in patients with initial stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Definite evidence from prospective controlled trials in hemodialyzed (diabetic) patients and transplanted patients is not available. Although no significant impact on the primary composite endpoint was observed, significant effects on secondary endpoints were noted. In our opinion, in view of excessive cardiovascular risk statins should be administered in patients with advanced CKD as well.