What is the classic triad of symptoms in a patient with renal artery stenosis?

The classic triad of symptoms associated with renal artery stenosis primarily includes resistant hypertension, flank pain, and hematuria.

Resistant hypertension occurs when high blood pressure remains elevated despite the use of multiple antihypertensive medications. This condition is often seen in renal artery stenosis due to reduced renal perfusion, which leads to activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, causing further increases in blood pressure.

Flank pain can be attributed to ischemia or stretching of renal structures due to changes in blood flow dynamics resulting from the stenosis. As the blood supply to the kidney becomes compromised, patients may experience pain in the flank region, which corresponds to the location of the kidneys.

Hematuria, or the presence of blood in urine, may occur as a result of damage or irritation to the renal tissue. This can happen due to insufficient oxygen supply leading to cell injury or due to other complications related to the stagnant blood flow in the affected renal area.

In summary, the combination of resistant hypertension, flank pain, and hematuria together creates a distinctive clinical picture that suggests the presence of renal artery stenosis. This triad is significant and points healthcare providers towards further evaluation and management of the condition.