Significance of obstructive sleep apnea in the patient with pulmonary hypertension

Curr Opin Pulm Med. 2015 Nov;21(6):569-78. doi: 10.1097/MCP.0000000000000206.

Abstract

Purpose of review: The purpose of this review was to evaluate the consequence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in pulmonary hypertension by reviewing the current literature and understanding potential pathophysiological mechanisms.

Recent findings: Small studies have suggested a high prevalence of comorbid OSA in those with known pulmonary hypertension. Pathophysiological mechanisms are highly suggestive of potential deleterious effect of OSA on pulmonary hemodynamics.

Summary: Clearly, current research work on comorbid OSA and pulmonary hypertension is still in its infancy and the field is ripe for future investigation. The significance of OSA in this population has yet to be fully determined.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Hemodynamics
  • Humans
  • Hypertension, Pulmonary / complications
  • Hypertension, Pulmonary / physiopathology*
  • Prevalence
  • Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / complications
  • Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / physiopathology*