Occurrence of microalbuminuria and hypertensive retinopathy in patients with essential hypertension

Abstract

Background: Microalbuminuria is frequently seen in patients with established essential hypertension, and is a predictor of a higher risk for cardiovascular and probably renal dysfunction. The present study was conducted to assess microalbuminuria in patients with essential hypertension. Materials & Methods: 80 patients with essential hypertension of both genders were recruited and assessed for microalbuminuria was measured in a 24 hours urinary sample. Results: Out of 80 patients, males were 52 and females were 28. Out of 80 patients, microalbuminuria was present in 20 patients. Age group 30-40 years had 0, 40-50 years had 1, 50-60 years had 7 and >60 years had 12 patients. 35 patients had no retinopathy. 20 had grade I, 14 had grade III and 9 had grade IV. MA was seen in 5 having no retinopathy, 4 in grade I, 6 in grade II, 3 in grade III and 2 in grade IV. The difference was significant (P< 0.05). Conclusion: The prevalence of microalbuminuria was high among patients of essential hypertension. Grad II retinopathy patients had high prevalence of microalbuminuria.