The Value Of The Frusemide (Lasix) Washout Test During Pyelography As An Indicator Of Renovascular Hypertension

SUMMARY

Fifty-seven hypertensives underwent renal arteriography selected on the basis of an abnormal Lasix washout response during urography, all other criteria being normal. Forty-five patients had normal arteriograms, 7 patients over 40 years showed minor arterial tapering, 4 had minimal fibromuscular hyperplasia, and 1 a small asymptomatic hypernephroma. It is concluded that as a screening test for renovascular hypertension the Lasix washout response by itself is of no real value because of the frequency of false positives. With the current interest in reduced distensibility of the kidney as a sign of renal artery stenosis Lasix will be assessed as a simple way of eliciting this.