[Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension]

Abstract

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension is characterized by the persistence of obstructive thromboemboli and pulmonary vascular remodelling in the open pulmonary arteries. The consequence is an increase in pulmonary vascular resistance and progressive right heart failure. Diagnosis is based on echocardiography, right heart catheterisation and ventilation-perfusion lung scan. Spiral CT and pulmonary angiography are required to assess operability. Pulmonary endarterectomy represents the treatment of choice. Antiproliferative treatments represent alternatives in the most severe and/or non operable patients.