Current role of imaging in the diagnosis and management of pulmonary hypertension.

Abstract

The purpose of this review is to describe classification schemes and imaging findings in the diagnosis and management of pulmonary hypertension. Pulmonary hypertension is a complex pathophysiologic condition in which several clinical entities increase pressure in the pulmonary circulation, progressively impairing cardiopulmonary function and, if untreated, causing right ventricular failure. Current classification schemes emphasize the necessity of an early, accurate etiologic diagnosis for a tailored therapeutic approach. Imaging plays an increasingly important role in the diagnosis and management of suspected pulmonary hypertension.