Treatment of pediatric pulmonary hypertension

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Authors: Amy Hawkins, Robert Tulloh

Published Date June 2009 , Volume 2009:5 Pages 509 - 524 DOI 10.2147/VHRM.S4171

Amy Hawkins, Robert Tulloh

Department of Congenital Heart Disease, Bristol Royal Hospital for Children, Bristol UK

Abstract: Pulmonary hypertension was once thought to be a rare condition and only managed in specialized centers. Now however, with the advent of echocardiography, it is found in many clinical scenarios, in the neonate with chronic lung disease, in the acute setting in the intensive care unit, in connective tissue disease and in cardiology pre- and postoperatively. We have a better understanding of the pathological process and have a range of medication which is starting to be able to palliate this previously fatal condition. This review describes the areas that are known in this condition and those that are less familiar. The basic physiology behind pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary vascular disease is explained. The histopathologic process and the various diagnostic tools are described and are followed by the current and future therapy at our disposal.

Keywords: pulmonary hypertension, congenital heart disease, pulmonary vascular resistance, pulmonary vasodilators