Hypertension in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit

Hypertension in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) is common and it contributes to the overall morbidity and mortality. Patients may present with hypertensive emergencies or hypertension can manifest itself later in PICU course. Although hypertension can be seen in most patients during hospitalization, patients with some specific diseases and conditions are more prone to hypertension. Hypertension should be recognized promptly and treated accordingly. Different pathophysiologic mechanisms can be responsible for the hypertension and management differs based on the underlying etiology. Any patient with a hypertensive emergency must be admitted to PICU, and treatment and diagnostic workup should be initiated immediately.