Posted by CCF CARDIO MD SK on October 09, 1997 at 11:28:27:

In Reply to: primary pulmonary hypertension posted by Cynthia Ales on October 08, 1997 at 10:36:08:

: Are their any new drugs being studied for pph? I was diagnosed 4 years ago.
I'm taking procardia and hydrosoline. My pressures are 55 to 65.Are my
pressures considered to be high? I've been seeing a cardiologist. Should
I be seeing a pulmonary specialist? What are the differences between the
two?

Dear Cynthia,

Primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) is an active area of research for many investigators (including some at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation). The medical management includes use of PGI2 (prostacyclin or epoprostenol) or its analogs. This medication is used in an intravenous form where continuous infusion is maintained with a small pump. Patients can perform their daily routine with this kind of therapy. Many factors determine whether this medication should be started in a particular patients. These would include, symptoms, pulmonary pressures (and on follow up the change/progression in this pressure) as well as right ventricular function. There is an experimental medication (chemical analog of this medication: procyclin- Betaprost Sodium) that has been used by some investigators in Japan in few patients. As I mentioned before, this is a very dynamic field.

Your pulmonary pressure is moderately high. Your medication regimen also sounds appropriate. It is important to see a Cardiologist or a Pulmonologist who is interested in this field. This problem involves circulation in the lung and so both Cardiologists and Pulmonologists can help you but, it would be ideal if you have a team of physicians (a cardiologist and a pulmonologist, both interested in primary pulmonary hypertension) to look after you.

If you are seeking a second opinion or further evaluation, an appointment with one of our cardiologist or pulmonologist specializing in primary pulmonary hypertension can be arranged by calling the Cleveland Clinic at (216) 444-6697.

Information provided in the Heart Forum is intended for general medical informational purposes only. Actual diagnosis and treatment of any particular medical condition can only be made by your family physician(s).