skip to main content

Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension — SCE Respiratory MCQ

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

HardPulmonary Vascular DiseaseIdiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertensionSCE Respiratory

A 62-year-old woman with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension is on dual oral therapy but remains WHO functional class III with rising NT-proBNP and reduced 6-minute walk distance. Right-heart catheterisation confirms worsening pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension. What is the most appropriate management?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Escalate therapy through a specialist pulmonary hypertension centre

Intermediate-high or high-risk PAH despite dual therapy requires specialist-centre escalation, often including prostacyclin pathway therapy or trial consideration. Inhaled airway therapy does not treat pulmonary vascular remodelling. Diuretics and oxygen can support selected patients but are not definitive escalation for worsening PAH.

Reference: https://www.brit-thoracic.org.uk/quality-improvement/guidelines/