Confirmed and suspected factors leading to increased PVR in COPD101
Factors affecting PH in COPD | Impact on pulmonary vessels |
Airflow limitation | Pressure swings |
Emphysema | Reduction of vascular bed |
Alveolar hypoxia | Vasoconstriction/remodelling |
Hypercapnic acidosis | Vasoconstriction |
Polycythaemia | Hyperviscosity |
Lung/systemic inflammation | Remodelling, including fibrosis |
COPD, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; PH, pulmonary hypertension.