Systemic hypertension in children

Hypertension is a common disease which may often be modified, sometimes cured and, perhaps in some cases, prevented. This communication emphasizes the importance of obtaining blood pressure measurements in children no later than at the age of 3 years and sequentially thereafter, and stresses the importance of using techniques for measuring blood pressure which assure accuracy. Levels of blood pressure readings diagnostic of hypertension are suggested. The evaluation of hypertensive children is outlined. The classification and differential diagnosis of hypertension is reviewed. Current concepts in nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic therapy for hypertension in children and youths are presented. Therapy for acute hypertensive crisis is described.