The kidney plays a pivotal role in the maintenance of electrolyte volume and balance within the body. Therefore it is not surprising that renal abnormalities are an important component of congestive heart failure. Recent data, however, have suggested something that may be surprising: the development of renal dysfunction in patients with heart failure is the most important predictor of mortality. Recognizing the coexistence of kidney dysfunction and heart failure—the cardiorenal syndrome—offers not only new insights into the nexus of kidney and heart disease in terms of epidemiology and prognosis but also the potential to provide new therapies for heart failure.

The Cardiorenal Syndrome: A Clinician’s Guide to Pathophysiology and Management features chapters by key leaders in the field. It presents clear definitions, insights into pathophysiology, and practical management strategies for this common syndrome. This volume assembles the most up-to-date information about the cardiorenal syndrome for the researcher and clinician alike.

J. Thomas Heywood, MD, Director, Heart Failure Recovery & Research Program, Scripps Clinic, La Jolla, California

John C. Burnett, Jr., MD, Marriott Family Professor of Cardiovascular Research, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine; Mayo Heart and Lung Research Center Director, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota