Classification of pulmonary hypertension groups patients with similar pathological findings, hemodynamic profiles, and management strategies. Minor modifications have been made to the current classification system, particularly within Group 1 pulmonary arterial hypertension. This article summarizes the published conclusions of the Fifth World Symposium of Pulmonary Hypertension task force that addressed the updated clinical classification of pulmonary hypertension.
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a rare heterogenous disease characterized by elevated blood pressure in the lungs. Patients with PH require careful evaluation and management at an expert center. Understanding of the mechanisms underlying the development of PH has increased over the past two decades, and several treatment options for pulmonary arterial hypertension have emerged. Despite this progress, PH continues to carry high morbidity and mortality. The 6th World Symposium on Pulmonary Hypertension that occurred in late 2018 modified the clinical classification of PH into five groups. In this review, we focus on the evaluation and diagnosis of PH and discuss the updated clinical classification.
This chapter covers pulmonary hypertension (PH), including its definitions and classifications. Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a pre-capillary form of PH, and its clinical features and signs are described. The 2019 updated clinical classification of PH is included, along with hereditable PAH, associated genetic mutations, and clinical screenings.