Clinical assessment of the patient with borderline hypertension

Borderline hypertension occurs in approximately 15% of adults. While these individuals are at increased risk for developing sustained hypertension, roughly three-fourths do not progress to that level. In order to facilitate the clinical assessment, we have reviewed the known pathophysiology of the borderline hypertensive state. The recommended clinical evaluation including history, physical and laboratory examinations is directed at identifying those borderline hypertensives at highest risk for future hypertension and cardiovascular complications. Therapeutic interventions are directed at the high risk subgroup.