Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 16, 2026

Evaluation of Right Ventricular Function in Experimental Models of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Published on: June 27, 2025
[Pulmonary arterial hypertension in the elderly subject]
I Frachon1, A Barnier, Y Jobic
1Equipe d'accueil 3878, Groupe HTAP de Bretagne Occidentale (GETBO), IFR 148, université de Brest, CHRU de Brest, 29609 Brest, France. irene.frachon@chu-brest.fr <irene.frachon@chu-brest.fr>
Objective:
To describe the features of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in elderly patients.
Methods:
A single centre, descriptive study of PAH patients consecutively referred to a regional centre, from September 2002 to February, 1st, 2009. The group of patients aged 65 and above at the time of the diagnosis was compared to the younger patients.
Results:
Sixty-six patients suffering from PAH (group 1) have been investigated by means of right heart catheterisation. There were 24 patients aged 65 and above. Mean pulmonary arterial pressure was lower in the patients aged over 65. The older patient group had more respiratory and/or cardiac co-morbidities, a lower median distance in the 6minute walk test and a higher median Pro-BNP level. Specific PAH treatments were prescribed in both groups. Fifteen patients aged 65 and above were on long-term oxygen therapy (vs four younger patients, p<0.0001). The elderly patients had a median survival of 32 months.
Conclusion:
The diagnosis of PAH in elderly patients is associated with a poor prognosis. The management of these patients needs further studies.
Related Concept Videos
Pulmonary Hypertension: Classification and Pathogenesis
There are various classifications for PH, each relating to different underlying causes and also...
Drug Dosing: Geriatric Patients
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Absorption
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Distribution
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Excretion
Pharmacodynamics in Geriatric Patients: Effects of Age
