Abstract

ABSTRACT: We evaluated the indices of arterial distensibility in a group (N=40) of normotensive subjects and patients with borderline or established hypertension by measuring intra-arterial pressure, pulse wave velocity, and a mathematical modification of MOENs formula to calculate arterial distensibility. Multiple linear regression analysis including six hemodynamic variables (systolic pressure [SP], diastolic pressure, mean arterial pressure, cardiac output, stroke volume, total peripheral resistance) and age showed that SP and age are the best predictor indices for arterial distensibility (P < .025; both inversely correlated with arterial distensibility) and for pulse wave velocity (P < .001; both positively correlated with pulse wave velocity). Patients aged 48 years and under (N=35) with no evidence of target organ damage showed significant differences in arterial distensibility (F=5.41; P < .01) among normal, borderline, and established hypertensive subjects; arterial distensibility was lower in those with borderline (P <.025) and established hypertension (P <.01) when compared with the normal group. We concluded that arterial distensibility is decreased in borderline as well as in established essential hypertension without target organ involvement and that age and systolic pressure are the best predictors of arterial distensibility.