Malignant Hypertension - Does It Still Exist?

Abstract

Malignant hypertension is an extremely severe form of hypertension in which intense vasoconstriction occurs as a result of association mechanisms, including an increase in vasoconstrictors, a decrease in vasodilators, and increased activity of the sympathetic nervous and renin angiotensin aldosteron systems and is associated with endothelium dysfunction. Malignant hypertension is rapidly fatal unless antihypertensive treatment is instituted. It has been reported that malignant hypertension has become a rare condition with an improved prognosis since the advent of effective antihypertensive therapy.