Question

Stenosis is a permanent narrowing of an artery, as with arteriosclerosis. Which of the following could occur with stenosis of a renal artery?

A) Urine output will increase.
B) Epinephrine secretion will increase.
C) Anemia will occur.
D) Renin secretion will increase.

Answer 1

Stenosis of a renal artery causes reduced blood flow to the kidneys, resulting in increased secretion of renin to counteract the effects of reduced renal blood flow and maintain blood pressure.

Step-by-step explanation:

Stenosis of a renal artery leads to complications due to insufficient blood flow to the kidneys, which disrupts the balance of fluid and electrolytes in the body. With diminished blood flow, there is a decrease in glomerular filtration rate (GFR), reducing urine output. This reduction in blood flow prompts the kidneys to release renin, which converts angiotensinogen to angiotensin I. This, in turn, is converted to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor. Angiotensin II also stimulates aldosterone secretion, which increases sodium and water retention, further contributing to increased blood volume and pressure. Therefore, in response to the question posed, D) Renin secretion will increase as the body attempts to counteract the reduced renal blood flow caused by stenosis of the renal artery.