[Review: arterial hypertension and advanced age]

In elderly and very old patients, arterial hypertension is a major cardiovascular risk factor. However, its management is still controversial. In this review paper, the effects of old age on cardiovascular homeostasis are discussed. Because of less efficient baroreflexes, increased blood pressure variability, postural hypotension, impaired renal and electrolytes regulation, elderly patients are more prone to side effects of treatment. Special attention should be paid to the blood pressure measurements: in this respect, ambulatory non invasive blood pressure profiles can be particularly helpful for the diagnosis and the control of hypertension. A practical approach acknowledging specific aspects of old age and recent advances in antihypertensive therapy is proposed.