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World J Cardiol. May 26, 2014; 6(5): 253-259
Published online May 26, 2014. doi: 10.4330/wjc.v6.i5.253
Pediatric hypertension: An update on a burning problem
Pier Paolo Bassareo, Giuseppe Mercuro
Pier Paolo Bassareo, Giuseppe Mercuro, Department of Medical Sciences “Mario Aresu”, University of Cagliari, Cagliari 09042, Italy
Author contributions: Bassareo PP wrote the manuscript; Mercuro G critically revised the manuscript and provided final approval.
Correspondence to: Pier Paolo Bassareo, MD, PhD, Department of Medical Sciences “Mario Aresu”, University of Cagliari, Policlinico Universitario, S.S. 554 bivio di Sestu, Monserrato, Cagliari 09042, Italy. piercard@inwind.it
Telephone: +39-07-06754953 Fax: +39-07-06754953
Received: December 27, 2013
Revised: February 16, 2014
Accepted: April 17, 2014
Published online: May 26, 2014
Core Tip

Core tip: It is generally presumed by cardiologists that arterial hypertension is a disease that typically develops only in adult life. However, a number of studies testify that this pathologic process can begin early in childhood, as evidenced by occasional increases in blood pressure (BP) or abnormal BP responses to physical or psychological stress. This review provides a detailed analysis concerning the epidemiology, diagnostic methods, and therapies for pediatric hypertension.