Cardiology

Question 1

What is malignant hypertension?

Answer 1

A rapid rise in BP leafing to vascular damage

Usually severe hypertension (systolic >200, diastolic >130)

Question 2

What are the symptoms of malignant hypertension?

Answer 2

Headache

Visual disturbances

Question 3

What are the complications of malignant hypertension?

Answer 3

Can precipitate:
AKI
HF
Encephalopathy

Question 4

What are some causes for secondary hypertension?

Answer 4

Endocrine: Cushing’s, Conn’s
Renal: glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidneys
Pregnancy
Liquorice
Drugs: steroids, cocaine, oral contraceptive pill

Question 5

What are the signs and symptoms of hypertension?

Answer 5

Usually asymptomatic

But if secondary look for signs of underlying disease
Look also for end organ damage: LVH, retinopathy, proteinuria

Question 6

What is the first line management of hypertension?

Answer 6

Lifestyle changes:
Stop smoking
Low fat diet
Reduce alcohol and salt intake 
Increase exercise

Question 7

What is the first line drug pathway for hypertension treatment?

Answer 7

> 55 and in black pt of any age: Calcium channel blockers
<55: ACEi (or ARB)
Beta blockers may be considered first line if pt is very young and have ACEi/ARB contraindications

Question 8

What is the combination drug pathway for hypertension treatment?

Answer 8

Add on calcium channel blockers or ACEi/ARB (which is not yet given)

Add thiazide

Add Beta blocker or alpha blocker

Question 9

Give an example of a thiazide used in hypertension treatment?

Answer 9

Chlortalidone

Question 10

Give an example of a calcium channel blocker used in hypertension treatment

Answer 10

Nifedipine

Question 11

Give an example of an ACEi that is used in hypertension treatment

Answer 11

Lisinopril

Question 12

Give an example of an ARB that is used in hypertension treatment

Answer 12

Candesartan

Question 13

Give an example of a beta blocker used in hypertension treatment

Answer 13

Bisoprolol