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Diastolic Dysfunction: Association with Hypertension and Potential Target for Antihypertensive Therapy

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Abstract

The origins of diastole lie in the preceding systole. Echocardiographic evaluation for diastolic function in hypertension incorporates evaluation for morphologic changes such as left ventricular hypertrophy and functional changes, especially abnormalities in left ventricular relaxation and compliance. Investigational tools such as studies of cardiac mechanics are proving useful in elucidating the various stages of the adaptation of the heart to pressure load and for understanding the transition from asymptomatic diastolic dysfunction to heart failure with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction. The effects of treatment on cardiac morphology and function continue to generate controversy with regard to whether there is evidence for unique cardiac benefits of certain antihypertensive therapies beyond adequate blood pressure control. New insights into the treatment of co-morbidities that cluster with hypertension as strategies for controlling diastolic function, and pharmacologic therapies targeted toward myocardial fibrosis, have the potential to expand the options currently available for treating hypertensive heart disease.

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  1. Division of Cardiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 676 N. St. Clair, Suite 600, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA

    Kofo O. Ogunyankin

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Ogunyankin, K.O. Diastolic Dysfunction: Association with Hypertension and Potential Target for Antihypertensive Therapy. Curr Cardio Risk Rep 4, 256–263 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12170-010-0107-7

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