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Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension: A Narrative Review
Timea Jurth1, Silvana Marasco2
1Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, AUS.
Cureus
|April 1, 2026
Summary
Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is a rare, underdiagnosed condition causing pulmonary hypertension. Early diagnosis and multidisciplinary care are crucial for improving outcomes in CTEPH patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pulmonology
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is a rare complication of acute pulmonary embolism (PE).
- It is characterized by organized thromboembolic lesions causing pulmonary artery obstruction and remodeling.
- CTEPH is chronically underdiagnosed due to nonspecific symptoms and comorbidities, leading to poor outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize current knowledge on CTEPH pathogenesis, presentation, diagnosis, and treatment.
- To highlight uncertainties and ongoing research in CTEPH management.
- To emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and multidisciplinary collaboration for improved patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- This is a narrative review.
- It synthesizes current understanding of CTEPH from existing literature.
- Focuses on pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnostic strategies, and therapeutic options.
Main Results:
- Pulmonary thromboendarterectomy is the gold standard but not suitable for all patients.
- Balloon angioplasty and medical therapies are important for managing inoperable CTEPH.
- Early diagnosis relies on a high index of suspicion by general practitioners.
Conclusions:
- Improving awareness and understanding of CTEPH is essential for better patient outcomes.
- Multidisciplinary collaboration is key for comprehensive CTEPH diagnosis and management.
- Timely intervention and appropriate treatment strategies significantly impact the prognosis of CTEPH.
Keywords:
chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (cteph)dyspneagroup 4 pulmonary hypertensionpulmonary embolism (pe)pulmonary thromboendarterectomy for ctephMore Related Videos
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