Pulmonary hypertension is defined as pulmonary pressures exceeding which value?

• A. 15 mmHg
• B. 20 mmHg
• C. 25 mmHg
• D. 30 mmHg

Answer: (B)

Pulmonary hypertension is a condition characterized by elevated blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries. This condition is clinically defined when the mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) exceeds 20 mmHg at rest. The significance of this threshold is that it helps differentiate normal pulmonary pressure from that seen in various forms of pulmonary hypertension. Pressures above this value can lead to various symptoms and complications, as they suggest a pathological increase in resistance within the pulmonary vasculature. Therefore, the correct definition of pulmonary hypertension being above 20 mmHg is essential for diagnosing and managing patients with this serious condition.

Understanding these pressure thresholds aids in identifying patients at risk and forms the basis for monitoring disease progression and response to treatments.