No abstract available.
Blood Pressure*

No abstract available.
Blood Pressure*

No abstract available.
Pressure Ulcer*

OBJECTIVES: To integrate the results of studies which assess an association between blood lead and blood pressure. METHODS: We surveyed the existing literature using a MEDLINE search with blood lead and blood pressure as key words, including reports published from January 1980 to December 2000. The criteria for quality evaluation were as follows: 1) the study subjects must have been workers exposed to lead, and 2) both blood pressure and blood lead must have been measured and presented with sufficient details so as to estimate or calculate the size of the association as a continuous variable. Among the 129 articles retrieved, 13 studies were selected for quantitative meta-analysis. Before the integration of each regression coefficient for the association between blood pressure and blood lead, a homogeneity test was conducted. RESULTS: As the homogeneity of studies was rejected in a fixed effect model, we used the results in a random effect model. Our quantitative meta-analysis yielded weighted regression coefficients of blood lead associated with systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure results of 0.0047 (95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.0061, 0.0155) and 0.0004 (95% CI: -0.0031, 0.0039), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The published evidence suggested that there may be a weak positive association between blood lead and blood pressure, but the association is not significant.
Blood Pressure*

No abstract available.
Pressure Ulcer*

No abstract available.
Pressure Ulcer*

No abstract available.
Blood Pressure*

No abstract available.
Blood Pressure*

Introduction: Differences in systolic blood pressure reading between arms are common but could signal trouble if the discrepancy is significant. Early detection of aortic dissection could invariably determine patient’s survivability. Hence, a high index of suspicion with prompt diagnostic imaging is vital for accurate diagnosis. Case Presentation: A previously healthy 35-year-old lady was referred from district hospital for hypertensive cardiomyopathy complicated by acute pulmonary oedema. After being admitted to the Intensive Care Unit, the mean arterial pressure on the left arm was noted to be significant higher. On physical examination, both lower limbs were dusky in appearance because of poor perfusion. Investigations: Computed Tomography Angiography showed extensive arch and abdominal aorta dissection extending to the proximal common carotid artery. There was distal abdominal aorta thrombosis with partial left renal infarction. Echocardiogram showed global hypokinesia, presence of intimal flap, aortic regurgitation and mild pericardial effusion. Supine chest X-ray showed apparent cardiomegaly. Treatment: Repair of the ascending aortic dissection and suspension of the aortic valve by the cardiothoracic team on Day 2 of admission. The vascular team did bilateral high above knee amputation on Day 9 of admission. Outcome: Patient passed away on Day 10 of admission. Discussion: With the absence of classical features of aortic dissection, establishing the diagnosis can be challenging and requires both good clinical judgment and prompt radiological imaging, such that early treatment can be initiated. Conclusion: A high index of suspicion and good clinical judgment is needed in cases of significant blood pressure discrepancy between arms.
Blood Pressure

BACKGROUND Hypertension is the most common risk factor for cardiovascular disease in the Philippines. Despite the availability of antihypertensive medications that are effective, safe, and tolerated by Filipino patients, the numbers of uncontrolled hypertensives are still increasing. Several factors play in the poor control of blood pressure, particularly resistant hypertension and hyperactive sympathetic nervous system. Renal denervation therapy is a novel device that has been shown to lower blood pressure in patients with resistant and difficult-to-treat hypertension and is deemed safe in clinical trials. A Philippine Working Group composed of specialists in cardiology, hypertension, vascular surgery, and clinical epidemiology has come up with consensus statements in identifying patients who will benefit from the procedure. Locally, there is a need to have hypertension centers treating uncontrolled and resistant hypertension and offer renal denervation therapy to appropriate Filipino patients.
Blood Pressure