Renal artery embolism treated with intra-arterial streptokinase infusion results in patent but small renal arteries.

A low intra-arterial dose of streptokinase was used to dissolve a renal artery embolus in 2 patients. Angiography at the end of the streptokinase therapy disclosed patent renal arteries. Arteriograms performed 3 months and 2 years later demonstrated patent but small renal arteries. These cases confirm the limited experience reported in the literature that even though initial restoration of renal artery patency is possible, the ultimate renal function is poor after intra-arterial streptokinase therapy.