Complexity of the Evaluation and Diagnosis of Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a rare, often under-recognized condition characterized by elevated pressures in the pulmonary arteries, with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) representing the most severe and least common form. Because symptoms are subtle and nonspecific, diagnosis is frequently delayed for years—making early evaluation essential. This article reviews the WHO clinical classifications of PH, outlines key causes across all five groups, and breaks down the diagnostic approach from initial assessment to advanced testing, including the role of echocardiography and right heart catheterization. With PH requiring careful investigation and timely referral, understanding how to identify at-risk patients is critical for improving outcomes.
Source: pulmapp.com