From the Guidelines
Normal pulmonary artery pressure in adults at rest is between 14 and 20 mmHg, as defined by mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) at rest, as measured by right heart catheterization 1. The definition of normal pulmonary artery pressure is crucial for the diagnosis and management of various cardiopulmonary conditions.
- The upper limit of normal for mPAP is approximately 20 mmHg, as stated in the 2015 ESC/ERS guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary hypertension 1.
- A mPAP between 21 and 24 mmHg is of uncertain clinical significance, but warrants close follow-up, especially in patients at risk for developing pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) 1.
- Pulmonary hypertension is diagnosed when the mPAP exceeds 25 mmHg at rest, as assessed by right heart catheterization, according to the guidelines 1. The low pressure in the pulmonary circulation is physiologically necessary to facilitate efficient gas exchange in the lungs, and elevated pulmonary pressures can indicate various conditions, including left heart disease, lung disease, pulmonary embolism, or primary pulmonary arterial hypertension 1.
- Accurate measurement of pulmonary artery pressure is crucial for proper diagnosis and management of these conditions, and right heart catheterization remains the gold standard for measuring mPAP 1. Therefore, a normal pulmonary artery pressure is essential for maintaining proper lung function and overall health, and any deviations from the normal range should be carefully evaluated and managed by a healthcare professional 1.
From the Research
Normal Pulmonary Artery Pressure
- Normal pulmonary artery pressure is typically considered to be less than 20 mmHg at rest, as stated in 2 and 3.
- However, some studies suggest that a mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) of up to 25 mmHg may be considered normal, as mentioned in 4 and 5.
- It is essential to note that the definition of normal pulmonary artery pressure may vary depending on the source and the specific context in which it is being used.
Diagnosis of Pulmonary Hypertension
- Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is diagnosed when the mean pulmonary artery pressure is greater than 20 mmHg, as defined in 2 and 3.
- The diagnosis of PH is typically made through a combination of clinical evaluation, non-invasive testing, and invasive hemodynamic assessment, as discussed in 2 and 5.