Pulmonary Hypertension Miniatlas

Pulmonary hypertension is a disease with severe consequences on the quality of life of patients. It is a disorder that may affect individuals of all ages and races, though certain cases have evidenced a genetic predisposition to develop the disease. Initial symptoms are relatively nonspecific, which makes it difficult to establish early diagnosis.As the disease advances, these symptoms which with certain behavioral changes allow leading an acceptable life, become highly disabling. Usual activities that form part of everyday life such as the simple act of walking becomes difficult. The prognosis of pulmonary hypertension is poor, though recent data has indicated that the life expectancy is currently higher than that estimated years ago. Research done over the last few years has attempted to elucidate the molecular processes involved in this condition so as to develop new therapeutic strategies that will allow further improving prognosis as well as the life expectancy of these patients.