Prediction of primary vs secondary hypertension in children
The Journal of Clinical Hypertension, 04/27/2012

Baracco R et al. – Abnormal renal ultrasound findings and age were predictors of secondary hypertension by regression and likelihood function analysis. Children aged 5 to 12 years with abnormal renal ultrasound findings and high diastolic blood pressures are at higher risk for secondary hypertension that requires detailed evaluation.

• The study evaluates primary vs secondary hypertension diagnosis from investigations routinely performed in hypertensive children.
• This retrospective study included children 5 to 19 years with primary and secondary hypertension.
• The proportions of abnormal laboratory and imaging tests were compared between primary and secondary hypertension groups.
• Risk factors for primary vs secondary hypertension were evaluated by logistic regression and likelihood function analysis.
• Patients with secondary hypertension were younger (5–12 years) and had a higher proportion of abnormal creatinine, renal ultrasound, and echocardiogram findings.

• There was no significant difference in abnormal results of thyroid function, urine catecholamines, plasma renin, and aldosterone.
• Abnormal renal ultrasound findings and age were predictors of secondary hypertension by regression and likelihood function analysis.