[Differences between men and women with chronic kidney disease]

Abstract

It is well known that there are differences in prevalence and progression of kidney disease between men and women. Several experimental models of chronic kidney disease (CKD) have revealed the different effects of gender on the course and responses to salt and vascular modulating substances. The prominent differences between men and women are attributable to sex hormones. Estrogen has profound effects on the renin-angiotensin system, producing alteration of renal function and structures. In this article, first, the differences in renal structure and function are introduced and then the effects of estrogen on renal hemodynamics and progression of renal diseases will be discussed.