[The role of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and vasopressin in the development of heart failure during continuous electric stimulation of the heart].

The status of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and the time course of vasopressin levels were studied in patients with an implanted cardiostimulator. Activation of plasma renin due to renal hypoperfusion in an inadequate stimulation was demonstrated to be followed by a rise in aldosterone and vasopressin concentrations and by an increase in blood volumes. Activation of angiotensin II and vasopressin resulted in higher peripheral resistance. Altered humoral regulation of the circulation retained 6-12 months after cardiostimulator implantation, by maintaining myocardial overload with volume and resistance.