Identification and management of juvenile hypertension

Abstract

Juvenile hypertension is a new field of study, and a definitive approach to diagnosis and treatment has not yet been developed. This article outlines the approach at the hypertension clinic of Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, where experience has confirmed the value of routine blood pressure measurement from an early age. Early identification and treatment may reverse target organ damage in youngsters with moderately severe or severe hypertension and may prevent sustained hypertension in those with borderline pressure elevations.