[Arterial stiffness--pathophysiological significance and practical aspects of assessment]

Abstract

Arterial stiffness is a dynamic property which depends on structure and function of arteries. Arterial stiffness progresses with age and it is an important factor leading to increase of systolic and pulse pressure and decrease in diastolic blood pressure. Increased arterial stiffness was also found in hypertension, chronic renal failure and diabetes. Arterial stiffness is an independent prognostic factor of mortality in hypertension and end-stage renal disease. Arterial stiffening leads to cardiovascular complications such as left ventricular hypertrophy. Many methods to assess different aspects of arterial stiffness: systemic, regional and local were developed. Various indicies of arterial stiffness were defined and are used in clinical investigations. Arterial stiffness is a dynamic parameter. Decrease in blood pressure leads to decrease of arterial stiffness. Many authors suggest, that angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors may exert favourable effect, irrespective of blood pressure. Arterial stiffness assessment may become a cardiovascular risk parameter and a therapeutic goal.