[The renin-angiotensin system. Physiopathological aspects and clinical implications of hypertensive syndromes. A survey].

In this review the physiologic role of the renin-angiotensin system in blood pressure regulation is discussed, and the alterations of the renin secretion in various forms of hypertension are examined. Furthermore a critical appraisal is made of the diagnostic and prognostic value of the plasma renin activity assay in hypertensive diseases.