Malignant hypertension Flashcards
1
Q
What is malignant hypertension?
A
Very high blood pressure that typically comes on suddenly and quickly
2
Q
What is the most common cause of malignant hypertension
A
- Most common the result of essential hypertension, but can also result from other secondary causes of hypertension
- Common in those with connective tissue diseases e.g. SLE
3
Q
How can malignant hypertension affect the kidneys?
A
The arterioles are badly damaged and undergo fibrinoid necrosis with resultant acute renal failure
4
Q
What are some presentations of malignant hypertension?
A
- Anxiety, confusion, decreased alertness, fatigue
- Signs of increased ICP - headache, N+V
- Blurred vision
- Chest pain - crushing/ pressure
- Cough
- Reduced urine output
- SOB
- Paraesthesias and weakness of limbs/face
5
Q
How is malignant hypertension defined?
A
Defined as systolic blood pressure of >180 mmHg and / or diastolic blood pressure of >120 mmHg PLUS signs of target organ damage
6
Q
How is malignant hypertension managed?
A
Medical emergency - hospital admission and lowering of BP over a period of days
7
Q
What are some complications of malignant hypertension?
A
- Papilloedema
- Encephalopathy
- Cardiac failure
- Renal failure
8
Q
A
