Aetiology, Pathophysiology and Treatment of Hypertension

Question 1

What is the definition of hypertension?

Answer 1

The blood pressure at which the benefits of treatment outweigh the risks in terms of morbidity and mortality

Question 2

What were the principle findings of the Framingham study?

Answer 2

Increasing blood pressure is associated with a progressive increase in the risk of stroke and CV disease

Question 3

What numerical value of hypertension?

Answer 3

140/90mmHg

Question 4

Describe the three stages of hypertension?

Answer 4

Stage 1: Clinic 140/90 mmHg or ABPM daytime average 135/85 mmHg

Stage 2: Clinic 160/100 mmHg or ABPM 150/95 mmHg

Stage 3: Severe 180mmHg systolic or 110 mmHg diastolic

Question 5

What is an ABPM?

Answer 5

An ambulatory blood pressure monitor - small machine that regularly take BP - more accurate

Question 6

In 95% of cases, there is no known cause; what is this called?

Answer 6

Primary hypertension

Question 7

What are the prime contributors to blood pressure?

Answer 7

Cardiac output and peripheral vascular resistance

Question 8

20% of all secondary hypertension is caused by what?

Answer 8

Renal disease:

• Chronic pyelonephritis
• Fibromuscular dysplasia
• Renal artery sclerosis
• Polycystic kidneys