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Published on: May 11, 2015
Pulmonary hypertension: how the radiologist can help.
Elena Peña1, Carole Dennie, John Veinot
1Department of Medical Imaging, Laboratory Medicine, Ottawa Hospital, Civic Campus, 1053 Carling Ave, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
Summary
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is high blood pressure in lung arteries. Accurate diagnosis using imaging techniques is vital for identifying treatable causes and guiding patient management.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Cardiology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is defined as elevated pulmonary arterial pressure.
- The classification of PH was updated in 2008.
- Diagnosis involves suspicion, detection, classification, and functional evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of imaging in diagnosing and managing pulmonary hypertension.
- To discuss the advantages and disadvantages of various imaging modalities.
Main Methods:
- Review of multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in PH.
- Discussion of imaging's role in identifying treatable causes and treatment responses.
Main Results:
- MDCT and MRI can reveal suggestive findings for various causes of PH.
- Imaging aids in distinguishing surgically treatable conditions from those with adverse reactions to vasodilators.
Conclusions:
- Radiologists are crucial in evaluating patients with pulmonary hypertension.
- Understanding imaging tool capabilities is essential for optimal patient care.
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