Endothelial dysfunction was observed in patients with chronic renal failure (CRF). Endothelial cells produce a lot of factors among them endothelin and nitric oxide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the plasma/serum and urine levels of edothelin 1 (ET 1) and nitric oxide (NO) in children with CRF treated conservatively. 52 children (23 girls and 29 boys) aged 2-20 years (mean 13.19 years) were enrolled into the study. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the creatinine level: group I--children with CRF and creatinine level below 265.2 micromol/l, group II CRF children with creatinine level above 265.2 micromol/l. We evaluated serum and urine metabolites of NO (nitrates + nitrites).
In conclusion: in children with chronic renal failure elevated level of ET1 and enhanced excretion of ET1 were observed. Decreased plasma and urine NOx levels were found in CRF children. The disorders are connected with progression of renal failure.