[Current clinical aspects of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Hypertension Research
• Preventive Medicine

Background:

• Systemic arterial hypertension is the most prevalent disease globally, significantly elevating cardiovascular risk.
• Early diagnosis and goal achievement are crucial for reducing hypertension-related complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss updated diagnostic criteria for hypertension.
• To highlight the role of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) in diagnosing and managing hypertension, including specific conditions like "white coat hypertension" and "masked hypertension".

Main Methods:

• Review of recent updates in hypertension diagnostic criteria.
• Analysis of the clinical utility of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) compared to traditional office-based measurements.
• Inclusion of emerging concepts such as isolated nocturnal hypertension, morning blood pressure elevation, and nocturnal dip patterns.

Main Results:

• Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) is superior to traditional methods for diagnosis, control, and treatment adjustment.
• New concepts like isolated nocturnal hypertension and altered nocturnal dip patterns are linked to increased cardiovascular risk.
• ABPM aids in diagnosing "white coat hypertension" and "masked hypertension".

Conclusions:

• Updated diagnostic criteria and the adoption of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) are vital for effective hypertension management.
• Emerging concepts in blood pressure monitoring show prognostic value and warrant further investigation.
• Continued research is needed for concepts like hypertensive load variability, pulse pressure, arterial stiffness, and specific population values (elderly, children).