White-Coat Hypertension: A Caution

Findings of a small study suggest that left ventricular mass index is higher in children with white-coat hypertension than in those with normal blood pressure.

The long-term implications of white-coat hypertension (WCH) in children remains controversial (JW Pediatr Adolesc Med Jun 13 2007). In a retrospective study, investigators assessed potential end-organ damage from WCH by comparing left ventricular mass index (LVMI; left ventricular mass indexed to height to correct for effect of body size) in 27 children (mean age, 15 years; 89% boys) with WCH versus that in 27 normotensive patients and 27 hypertensive patients who were matched for BMI, age, and sex.

Mean LVMI was 29.2 g/m² in normotensive patients, 32.3 g/m² in patients with WCH, and 35.1 g/m² in hypertensive patients. LVMI did not differ significantly between the WCH and hypertensive groups but was significantly greater in the WCH group tha…

Reviewing Author

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

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Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

White-Coat Hypertension: A Caution

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Reviewing Author