Author: Julia Wong,

Source: Current Hypertension Reviews, Volume 3, Number 3, August 2007 , pp. 216-222(7)

Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers

Abstract:

Purpose of review: This review is intended to provide the background for a broad view of the influence of large-artery stiffness on the development of hypertension in aging, diabetes and end-stage renal disease.

Recent findings: Arterial stiffness, particularly in aorta, is a major determinant of isolated systolic hypertension in the elderly. Studies have consistently shown that large-artery stiffness results in augmented amplitude of reflected pressure waves and their early return. This disturbed physiological phenomenon can alter the heart-vessel coupling and lead to increased cardiovascular risk. This review describes the structural, functional, environmental and genetic factors that influence arterial stiffness, wave reflection, and blood pressure. It also discusses non-invasive techniques to measure arterial stiffness and analyze arterial waveforms. The effects of various antihypertensive agents with respect to arterial stiffness and blood pressure reduction are examined. In addition, studies on non-pharmacologic interventions to modify large artery behavior are reviewed.

Summary: Optimal clinical management of hypertension depends on better understanding of the contribution of vascular stiffness to hypertension. This information has significant implications for therapeutic decisions.

Keywords: Arterial stiffness; wave reflections; aging; hypertension

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/157340207781386684

Publication date: 2007-08-01

More about this publication?

• Current Hypertension Reviews publishes frontier reviews on all the latest advances on hypertension and its related areas e.g. nephrology, clinical care, and therapy. The journal's aim is to publish the highest quality review articles dedicated to clinical research in the field. The journal is essential reading for all clinicians and researchers in the field of hypertension.