The Effect of Atorvastatin on Endothelial Cell Dysfunction in Chronic Kidney Disease

The Effect of Atorvastatin on Endothelial Cell Dysfunction in Chronic Kidney Disease

The purpose of this study is to see if patients with chronic kidney disease have endothelial cells that don't function properly, which is thought to be a marker for cardiovascular risk. Endothelial cells line the heart and blood vessels. The investigators will treat your high cholesterol with a cholesterol-lowering drug (atorvastatin, or Lipitor). They will determine if this cholesterol lowering drug improves subjects' cholesterol as well as the function of endothelial cells.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Stage 3, 4 and 5 chronic kidney disease (not on dialysis)
• Hyperlipidemia requiring cholesterol lowering therapy
• Aged 18 to 80 years old
• Ability to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients requiring multiple cholesterol reducing agents
• Patients with neovascularization present, such as neoplasm, active wounds, or significant retinopathy
• Patients with contraindications or allergy to statins