A Cross-Sectional Observational Study on Echocardiographic Assessment of Right Heart Function Across Various Stages of Hypertension

Background: Hypertension is a major global health problem and an important risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. While its effects on left heart function are well established, emerging evidence suggests significant involvement of the right heart. This study aimed to assess right heart morphology and function using echocardiography in patients with different stages of hypertension and to identify the most accurate parameter for detecting right ventricular dysfunction.

Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 50 hypertensive patients attending the cardiology outpatient department, emergency department, and intensive care unit at Chettinad Super Speciality Hospital. Right heart function was assessed using echocardiographic parameters and correlated with stages of hypertension.

Results: Among the 50 patients, 29 (58%) were males and 21 (42%) were females, with a mean age ranging from 20-80 years. Echocardiographic assessment showed no significant differences in hemodynamic parameters, including RAP, PASP, PAEDP, MPAP, and RVSP measured by TAPSE. However, Doppler-derived tricuspid valve diastolic parameters (E/A ratio and deceleration time) demonstrated better accuracy in identifying right ventricular dysfunction. Stage 2 and Stage 3 hypertension showed greater association with right heart dysfunction.

Conclusion: Right ventricular diastolic dysfunction appears to be an early and reliable marker of right heart involvement in hypertension, particularly in advanced stages.