Malignant or accelerated hypertension

Abstract

Malignant or accelarated hypertension is a life-threatening medical emergency that is a possible complication of practically any hypertensive disorder. If not promptly treated it can cause severe, rapidly progressive target-organ damage and death. While the histo-pathologic features of malignant hypertension are well recognized, the pathogenesis of the associated vascular lesions and the transition from a benign to a malignant phase are unclear. With adequate control of hypertension, progression to the accelarated or malignant phase can be prevented. Moreover, promptly and effectively reducing the blood pressure during the malignant phase can prevent, minimize or even reverse serious target organ injury. Malignant hypertension, therefore, is both preventable and treatable.