Hypertension
Hypertension is the elevation of blood pressure. An individual is classified as hypertensive when there is a sustained rise in blood pressure to more than 140/90 mmHg on three or more readings, each at least one week apart. Most patients have essential hypertension and an underlying cause is identified in less than 10%.
Causes
Renal
Figure 35 MRA renal arteries.
The patient presented with poorly-controlled hypertension. Subsequent examination revealed a bruit inferior to the left costal margin. MRA revealed a tight stenosis close to the origin of the left renal artery (arrow). The stenosis was successfully treated with angioplasty and stenting.
Drugs
History
Patients with uncomplicated essential hypertension are asymptomatic and are identified only in the course of routine physical examination; however, patients with secondary hypertension may complain of symptoms from the underlying disorder.
