Hypertension in children and adolescents--1986

Current issues in paediatric hypertension are reviewed in the light of an international symposium held in Heidelberg, Federal Republic of Germany, in October 1985. Primary (essential) hypertension has emerged as an important domain of epidemiologists, involving genetics, pathophysiology and clinical paediatrics. Understanding of secondary hypertension has increased, largely as a consequence of improved survival of children with progressive kidney disease. Methodological procedures, normal standards and determinants of blood pressure and the definition and incidence of hypertension are discussed, as well as new developments in antihypertensive treatment, such as the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and calcium blocking agents. Finally, some proposals for future research topics in the field of childhood hypertension are given. The Appendix contains recommendations for the measurement of blood pressure and for the diagnosis and treatment of hypertension in children and adolescents.