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Markers of arrhythmogenic risk in hypertensive subjects

Andrea Barison1, Giuseppe Vergaro, Luigi Emilio Pastormerlo

  • 1Fondazione G. Monasterio CNR - Regione Toscana, Pisa, Italy.

Current Pharmaceutical Design
|August 25, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Hypertension significantly increases the risk of supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmias, particularly in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy. Tight blood pressure control may reduce arrhythmia occurrence in these high-risk individuals.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Hypertension Research
  • Electrophysiology

Background:

  • Hypertension is a major independent risk factor for both supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmias.
  • Arrhythmias in hypertensive patients are linked to left ventricular diastolic dysfunction, left atrial size/function, and left ventricular hypertrophy.
  • Hypertension, especially with left ventricular hypertrophy, elevates the risk of sudden cardiac death.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the association between hypertension and supraventricular/ventricular arrhythmias.
  • To review biomarkers for assessing arrhythmia risk in hypertensive individuals.
  • To discuss the impact of strict blood pressure management on arrhythmia incidence.

Main Methods:

  • Review of noninvasive parameters including biohumoral, electrocardiographic, and imaging techniques.
  • Analysis of neurohormones, signal-averaged P-wave, QT dispersion, heart rate variability, and ventricular late potentials.
  • Evaluation of echocardiographic and MRI indices of atrial and ventricular structure and function.

Main Results:

  • Hypertension is a significant risk factor for arrhythmias, with increased risk in left ventricular hypertrophy.
  • Factors like electrolyte imbalances, autonomic dysfunction, and ischemia can worsen arrhythmias in hypertrophic hearts.
  • Various biomarkers are being investigated for risk stratification in hypertensive patients.

Conclusions:

  • Hypertension is a critical determinant of supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmias.
  • Identifying high-risk hypertensive patients using biomarkers is crucial for targeted interventions.
  • Tailored, intensive blood pressure control may mitigate arrhythmia development and progression.

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