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What is the optimal serum potassium level in cardiovascular patients?

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Abstract

Humans are prone to sodium overload and potassium depletion. This electrolyte imbalance is important in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease and sudden cardiac death. Avoiding hypokalemia is beneficial in several cardiovascular disease states including acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, and hypertension. The evidence highlighting the importance of potassium homeostasis in cardiovascular disease and possible mechanisms explaining potassium's benefits are reviewed. Targets for serum potassium concentration are suggested.

Abbreviations

ACE
angiotensin-converting enzyme
AMI
acute myocardial infarction
BP
blood pressure
ECG
electrocardiogram/electrocardiographic/ electrocardiography
HF
heart failure
LVH
left ventricular hypertrophy
MRFIT
Multiple Risk Factor Intervention Trial
NO
nitric oxide
RAAS
renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system
SCD
sudden cardiac death
VF
ventricular fibrillation
VSMC
vascular smooth muscle cell

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