skip to main content

Haemodynamic Definition of PH — EECC MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModeratePulmonary Vascular DiseaseHaemodynamic Definition of PHEECC

A cardiology trainee is asked about the haemodynamic classification of pulmonary hypertension. Which combination of right heart catheterisation values defines pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension according to the 2022 ESC/ERS Guidelines?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — mPAP >20 mmHg, PAWP ≤15 mmHg, and PVR >2 Wood units

The 2022 ESC/ERS PH Guidelines revised the haemodynamic definition of PH, lowering the mPAP threshold from >25 mmHg (2015) to >20 mmHg, based on evidence that mPAP >20 mmHg is above the upper limit of normal and associated with worse outcomes. Pre-capillary PH is defined as: mPAP >20 mmHg AND PAWP ≤15 mmHg AND PVR >2 Wood units (WU), lowered from >3 WU. Isolated post-capillary PH has mPAP >20 mmHg, PAWP >15 mmHg, PVR ≤2 WU. Combined post- and pre-capillary PH has mPAP >20 mmHg, PAWP >15 mmHg, PVR >2 WU. Echocardiographic estimates cannot definitively diagnose PH — RHC is mandatory.

Reference: ESC/ERS (2022): Guidelines for Pulmonary Hypertension