[Effect of long-term therapy of essential hypertension on serum creatinine, electrocardiogram and eyeground status: a study of 71 patients over 7 years (author's transl)]

Abstract

71 patients with essential hypertension have been followed for 7 years under effective anti-hypertensive therapy. Significant decrease in mean blood pressure was noted at the end of the first year and progressed linearly thereafter. Serum creatinine rose slightly, probably due to diuretics. Eyegrounds improved sharply during the first year, but deteriorated slightly thereafter: this may be due to increasing arteriosclerosis and validity of classification is questioned. Electrocardiogram improved during the first year, singularly in men: correlation with reduction in blood pressure was not clear. This discrepancy is discussed. It is concluded that improvement is sufficient to justify a continued treatment in this type of hypertension.