1. Proposed screening algorithm for identification of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) associated with connective tissue disease.
Proposed screening algorithm for identification of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) associated with connective tissue disease. Echocardiography should be performed as a screening tool for pulmonary hypertension (PH) in asymptomatic patients with systemic sclerosis and/or in patients with other connective tissue disease with suspected symptoms. Right heart catheterisation (RHC) is indicated in patients for whom PH is likely or highly likely. Repeated echocardiography should be considered if the initial exam was inconclusive or in cases of symptomatic progression. DL,CO: diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide; TRV: tricuspid regurgitation velocity; V′/Q′: ventilation/perfusion; HRCT: high-resolution computed tomography.
J-L. Vachiéry, and G. Coghlan Eur Respir Rev 2009;18:
©2009 by European Respiratory Society