Current Hypertension Reports最新文献

Purpose of review: Heart failure (HF) is characterized by a significant imbalance of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), with chronic sympathetic nervous system (SNS) overactivity leading to maladaptive cardiac remodeling, arrhythmia, and hemodynamic instability. In this review, we aim to discuss current and emerging therapies and the potential path forward for developing future novel neuromodulatory therapies in HF.

Recent findings: Neuromodulatory therapies including splanchnic nerve modulation (SNM), vagal nerve stimulation (VNS), baroreflex activation therapy (BAT), and renal denervation (RDN) reduce sympathetic output in individuals with HF, leading to improved cardiac function, neurohormonal regulation, and vascular resistance. However, implementation of these strategies in clinical practice is limited owing to variability in response, patient selection criteria, and insufficient long-term efficacy data. Gene therapy targeting Gαi2 proteins, and adenylyl cyclase isoforms have demonstrated potential in reducing sympathetic overactivation. Endovascular BAT such as the Mobius HD has shown early indications of improvements in symptoms, left ventricular function, and biomarkers in patients with HF. These emerging therapies warrant further investigation. Neuromodulation is a characteristic method for reducing disease progression and improving outcomes in individuals with autonomic dysfunction-driven HF. Although initial studies demonstrate benefits, long-term impact of neuromodulation on HF development, symptom load, and survival has not yet been thoroughly demonstrated. Future studies should prioritize deep phenotyping using genetic and biomarker profiles to improve patient selection. Comparative trials are required to assess the efficacy and safety of neuromodulatory therapies relative to conventional approaches. Large-scale trials are needed to optimize procedural procedures, and assess the long-term efficacy of treatment interventions.

Purpose of review: Since the FDA approved transcatheter renal denervation (RDN) for the treatment of uncontrolled hypertension in 2023, cardiologists have sought to answer a critical question: "Who benefits from RDN?" The blood pressure-lowering effect of RDN varies considerably among individuals, with some showing little to no response. Predicting individual response remains challenging due to the lack of reliable biomarkers. This review summarizes potential biomarkers for predicting the antihypertensive response to RDN, with a focus on their pathophysiological mechanisms.

Recent findings: Biomarkers reflecting renal efferent nerve activity, rather than afferent nerve activity, may serve as more reliable predictors of RDN response. Additionally, biomarkers linked to renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) activation, such as plasma renin activity and miR-133a, have shown promising predictive value. Further research is needed to validate these findings and identify novel biomarkers to optimize patient selection for RDN.

Background: This scoping review examines the existing literature to reveal consensus or absence thereof regarding the definition and management strategies for asymptomatic hypertension.

Methods: The review used Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines. We searched the CINAHL (EBSCO), Scopus, Ovid EMBASE, and PubMed (MEDLINE) databases using keywords and index terms to identify adult patients with hypertension in an emergency or outpatient setting. After review and quality assessment, we included 35 texts.

Results: The definition of "asymptomatic hypertension" varied widely. There was significant variation in which society or academic guideline served as the reference and what the blood pressure cut offs were; all specified a lack of end-organ damage. End-organ damage was poorly defined- studies instead described the absence of hypertensive emergency. Of the texts which provided recommendations, all recommended a thorough history and physical examination. Only one study recommended additional testing for asymptomatic patients. Treatment recommendations relied predominantly on ACEP clinical policy, with a majority of studies advocating for gradual reduction of blood pressure as well as referral for outpatient management.

Conclusion: Unified guidelines on the definition and management of asymptomatic hypertension are needed to ensure effective and consistent patient care. There is no consensus for diagnostic testing in patients with a negative history and physical exam, nor whether treatment should be initiated in the emergency department. Addressing this gap would enhance clinical outcomes and streamline healthcare processes across systems. Future research should focus on establishing consensus and developing management strategies that are adaptable to both emergency and primary care environments.

Purpose of review: This review provides a critical examination of the sex-specific impact of alcohol consumption on the development and progression of hypertension. Specifically, it elucidates the differential roles of alcohol metabolism and blood pressure regulatory mechanisms in men and women. Finally, it explores promising sex-specific therapeutic strategies for the management of alcoholic hypertension.

Recent findings: Emerging evidence indicates significant sex-based disparities in alcohol pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, with women exhibiting heightened susceptibility to alcohol-induced cardiovascular sequelae. Crucially, key mechanistic insights reveal the differential modulation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), oxidative stress pathways, and the intricate interplay of sex hormones, including the protective effects of estrogen and the potential pro-hypertensive effects of testosterone. Consequently, contemporary therapeutic avenues are increasingly focusing on targeting these sex-specific pathophysiological mechanisms. Alcoholic hypertension manifests with distinct sex-related etiologies and underlying mechanisms, necessitating the development of tailored therapeutic interventions. Effective management strategies should prioritize addressing sex-specific differences in oxidative stress, RAAS activation, and the implementation of personalized lifestyle modifications.

Purpose of review: We aim to review the most recent literature on demographic features and diagnostic workup of children with secondary hypertension, in order to provide a framework for health providers to determine which hypertensive pediatric patients warrant further investigation for secondary causes. By highlighting the utility of various diagnostic investigations, we aim to minimize unnecessary testing burden.

Recent findings: A recent meta-analysis revealed that hypertensive children and adolescents with any of the following features were at increased risk of secondary hypertension: < 6 years of age, history of prematurity, family history of secondary hypertension, body mass index (BMI) < 10th percentile. Based on available evidence, we suggest a testing schema that is stratified by both age and BMI. Limited evidence suggest renal ultrasound may be one of the most useful initial investigations for secondary causes in asymptomatic hypertensive children. Lipid profile in overweight/obese children, and echocardiogram for end organ involvement may have high yield of abnormal results. Further studies on the diagnostic utility of tests for secondary hypertension are required, as the current body of evidence is limited.

Purpose of review: This review examines the literature on remote blood pressure monitoring (RBPM) for pregnant women at high risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP).

Recent findings: Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are a leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity. High risk women often require frequent outpatient review for blood pressure monitoring which can be resource-intensive. RBPM is an organised framework which allows patients to monitor their own blood pressure with clinician guidance, improving healthcare utilisation and potentially saving healthcare costs without worsening maternal and fetal outcomes. Following the COVID-19 pandemic and the growing research interest in mobile health, RBPM has been integrated into international guidelines for managing high-risk pregnancies. Yet there is significant heterogeneity across RBPM frameworks described in the literature, and a lack of clear guidance on the development and implementation of this strategy. RBPM offers promising additional surveillance for high-risk pregnant women. However, challenges remain in its safe implementation, including patient selection, technology, costs, and adequate training to ensure accuracy in blood pressure readings.

Purpose of review: Systemic hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and remains challenging to manage despite the widespread use of antihypertensive medications and lifestyle modifications. This review explores the role of gut microbiota in hypertension development and regulation, highlighting key mechanisms such as inflammation, gut-brain axis modulation, and bioactive metabolite production. We also assess the potential of microbiota-targeted therapies for hypertension management.

Recent findings: Emerging evidence indicates that microbial dysbiosis, high-salt diets, and gut-derived metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and bile acids significantly influence blood pressure regulation. Preclinical and early clinical studies suggest that interventions targeting gut microbiota, including probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), and dietary modifications, may help modulate hypertension. However, variability in gut microbiota composition among individuals and limited human trial data pose challenges to translating these findings into clinical practice. While microbiota-based therapies show promise for hypertension management, further research is needed to establish their efficacy and long-term effects. Large-scale, standardized clinical trials are crucial for understanding the therapeutic potential and limitations of gut microbiota interventions. A deeper understanding of the gut-hypertension axis could lead to novel, personalized treatment strategies for hypertension.

Purpose of review: Survivors of childhood cancer and hematopoietic cell transplant are at risk for developing chronic health conditions, including hypertension. Studies have identified hypertension as an influential risk factor for late kidney dysfunction and cardiovascular disease in childhood cancer survivors. The overall risk of hypertension depends on the specific cancer treatment, from chemotherapy to surgery to radiation. In this report, we aim to review the main causes of hypertension in childhood cancer survivors, with a focus on newer therapies, as well as the current recommendations for screening and management of hypertension in this patient population.

Recent findings: Novel targeted therapies and immunotherapies are being increasingly used in pediatric cancer treatment, with unclear impact on long-term health. Screening guidelines for hypertension in the survivor population have been issued by various childhood cancer cooperative groups based on best available evidence and expert opinion. Newer studies have focused on individual risk prediction, which may help improve the diagnosis and management of hypertension, particularly in higher-risk individuals. Despite the importance of hypertension as one of the few modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular and renal health, studies have yet to define optimal blood pressure targets, screening parameters, or management strategies in childhood cancer survivors. Additionally, further studies are needed to demonstrate improvement in outcomes following interventions for hypertension specifically in this patient population.

Purpose of review: To review data regarding the association between hypertension and childhood obesity on target organ damage. We will also review data regarding the impact of intervening on hypertension and childhood obesity on target organ damage.

Recent findings: The prevalence of hypertension and obesity are rising in children despite efforts to address these risk factors. Health disparities play a role in contributing to the rise in prevalence. Hypertension and obesity promote pro-inflammatory cytokines that activate the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and sympathetic nervous system which result in adverse effects on blood pressure regulation and renal function. Adverse cardiac, vascular, renal, neurocognitive, and retinal changes can be seen with elevated blood pressure. Recent intervention studies are few, but adequate treatment of hypertension and obesity can result in improvement in target organ damage. Hypertension and obesity have significant impacts upon target organs. Interventions to decrease blood pressure and treat obesity are associated with reductions in left ventricular hypertrophy, improvement in measures of systolic and diastolic function, and improvement in renal outcomes. Appropriate screening and management of these conditions can lessen potential future cardiovascular impact.