Pathophysiology of PAH
While the exact cause of PAH is uncertain, a clearer picture of the underlying pathological mechanisms is emerging.
PAH explained
What is Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)?
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare and severe disease that continues to progress over time.1 It is caused by the narrowing of the pulmonary arteries, which connect the right side of the heart to the lungs.2 PAH may occur with no identifiable cause or may be associated with one or more underlying conditions.3 As PAH develops, blood flow through the pulmonary arteries is restricted and the right side of the heart becomes enlarged due to the increased strain of pumping blood through the lungs.4
Pathophysiology of PAH
Diagnosis of PAH
Clinical guidelines set out the diagnostic pathway so patients can be referred and treated as quickly as possible.
Treatment of PAH
Modern treatments can significantly improve patients’ symptoms and slow the rate of clinical deterioration.
References
- D’Alonzo GE et al. Ann Intern Med 1991; 115:343–349.
- Gaine S. JAMA 2000; 284:3160–3168.
- Galiè N et al. Eur Heart J 2016; 37:67–119.
- Vonk Noordegraaf A et al. Eur Respir J 2019; 53:1801900.
©Janssen-Cilag B.V. – CP-192318 - 12-nov-2020