Diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary hypertension

Abstract

Pulmonary hypertension is a relatively common finding in patients with left heart disease and lung hypoxic disease. Nonetheless, some types of pulmonary hypertension, such as pulmonary arterial hypertension and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, are rare. Despite the rarity of these diseases their impact on patients' lives and healthcare system is significant because of their poor prognosis. In this review article we describe step-by-step the diagnostic algorithm for all types of pulmonary hypertension, focusing on the early detection of signs and symptoms of the disease. We are also reviewing the current vasodilatory treatments for pulmonary arterial hypertension and the therapeutic options for chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. © TOUCH BRIEFINGS 2012.