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Published on: January 16, 2013
Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension in children
Erika Berman Rosenzweig1, Robyn J Barst
1Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York, New York 10032, USA.
Insights
Recent advances in treating idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) have significantly improved outcomes for children. Current strategies offer sustained clinical improvement and increased survival rates for pediatric IPAH patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Pulmonology
- Medical Research
Background:
- Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) was historically a grave diagnosis for children.
- Significant medical progress has altered the disease's trajectory in pediatric patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent medical advancements in pediatric idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension.
- To enhance understanding of current treatment options for children with IPAH.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current diagnostic and treatment strategies.
- Analysis of clinical and hemodynamic data from pediatric IPAH patients.
Main Results:
- Current treatment strategies demonstrate sustained clinical and hemodynamic improvement in children with various pulmonary arterial hypertension types.
- Increased survival rates observed in pediatric patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Conclusions:
- The article provides an overview of advancements in IPAH diagnosis and treatment for children.
- These advancements have a significant impact on current clinical practice for pediatric IPAH.
Purpose Of Review:
Until recently, the diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension was virtually a death sentence, particularly for children. Although there is no cure for idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension, recent medical advances have dramatically changed the course of this disease in children. A review of some of the latest medical advances will provide the reader with a better understanding of the most current treatment options for children with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Recent Findings:
The literature reviewed demonstrate sustained clinical and hemodynamic improvement in children with various types of pulmonary arterial hypertension as well as increased survival in patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension using current treatment strategies.
Summary:
This article will provide an overview of how the current diagnostic and treatment strategies of idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension in children have advanced over the last several years and how this impacts on clinical practice.
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