Clinical features and therapy experience of hypertensive emergency in children

Abstract

Objective To summarize the clinic features and therapy experience of hypertensive emergency(HE) in children. Methods From January 2007 to January 2017, 13 children diagnosed as HE were enrolled in Capital Institute of Pediatrics.We summarized the etiology, clinical features, blood pressure levels, laboratory examinations and treatment of these patients with HE retrospectively. Results There were 289 hypertensive patients, while 13 patients fulfilled diagnostic criteria of HE with the rate of 4.5%.All patients were secondary hypertension, especially 9 cases were associated with renal diseases.Seven patients with HE accepted intravenous drugs to reduce high blood pressure, while 5 patients with sodium nitroprusside and 2 patients with phentolamine.At the same time, 2 to 4 kinds of oral drugs were administrated together with intravenous ones.Two patients died with multiple organ dysfunctions, and one patient gave up treatment and discharged.Other patients improved and discharged. Conclusion Generally, secondary hypertension is the most common reason of HE, especially renal disease, so close monitoring is very important.Hypokalemia is common in patients with HE.Based on effective blood pressure control, treasures for organ and tissue perfusion and protection are very important in patients with HE. Key words: Child; Hypertension; Hypertensive emergency; Hypertensive crisis