All that RAAS
Tracks
Advanced Clinical Stream - Eureka 1
| Thursday, March 20, 2025 |
| 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM |
| Eureka 1 |
Overview
Melissa Shoard
Speaker
Melissa Shoard
VCTA, SASH, VNCA
All that RAAS
Abstract
Let’s delve into the fascinating Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS). This hormone system plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance within our bodies. I will cover the main concepts of the RAAS system and diseases that are affected by it.
This is a concise summary of what will be covered;
The RAAS is a multifaceted hormonal network that ensures vital organ perfusion. Key components include:
1. Renin Release:
Renin, produced by renal juxtaglomerular cells, initiates the cascade. Factors like reduced sodium delivery or sympathetic stimulation trigger renin release.
2. Angiotensin II Production:
Renin converts angiotensinogen (from the liver) to angiotensin I. ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) then transforms angiotensin I into angiotensin II, primarily in the lungs.
3. Angiotensin II Effects:
- Vasoconstriction: Angiotensin II constricts blood vessels, raising blood pressure.
- Na+ Reabsorption: It stimulates Na+ reabsorption in the kidneys.
- Sympathetic Stimulation: Increases noradrenaline release.
- Aldosterone Release: Promotes aldosterone secretion from the adrenal cortex.
- Thirst Sensation: Via the hypothalamus, it triggers thirst to maintain fluid volume.
4. Clinical Significance: Understanding RAAS helps manage cardiovascular diseases and maintain homeostasis.
This is a concise summary of what will be covered;
The RAAS is a multifaceted hormonal network that ensures vital organ perfusion. Key components include:
1. Renin Release:
Renin, produced by renal juxtaglomerular cells, initiates the cascade. Factors like reduced sodium delivery or sympathetic stimulation trigger renin release.
2. Angiotensin II Production:
Renin converts angiotensinogen (from the liver) to angiotensin I. ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) then transforms angiotensin I into angiotensin II, primarily in the lungs.
3. Angiotensin II Effects:
- Vasoconstriction: Angiotensin II constricts blood vessels, raising blood pressure.
- Na+ Reabsorption: It stimulates Na+ reabsorption in the kidneys.
- Sympathetic Stimulation: Increases noradrenaline release.
- Aldosterone Release: Promotes aldosterone secretion from the adrenal cortex.
- Thirst Sensation: Via the hypothalamus, it triggers thirst to maintain fluid volume.
4. Clinical Significance: Understanding RAAS helps manage cardiovascular diseases and maintain homeostasis.
Biography
Melissa is an accomplished emergency and critical care (ECC) professional based in Western Sydney, with over a decade of experience in the veterinary industry. She is deeply passionate about training and educating nurses, technicians, and veterinarians, holding notable qualifications such as her VTS (ECC), a Diploma of Veterinary Nursing (ECC), a Certificate IV in Training and Assessing, and proudly being an RVN and AVN.
In addition to being published in the AVNJ and lecturing at conferences, Melissa was honoured with the 2024 Louise O'Dwyer VTS Aspiration Award for her dedication to the field. She actively volunteers with the VNCA at both state and national levels. Recently, she founded the Veterinary Care Training Academy, a platform dedicated to teaching, fostering growth, and supporting the veterinary profession. Always striving to expand her expertise, Melissa is currently pursuing a second diploma in general practice.
