Marc Humbert Boeken

This volume focuses on current evidence-based pharmacological treatments of various forms of pulmonary hypertension and provides a comprehensive review of the latest developments in this area. The first part of the book covers the definition, classification, pathophysiology, pathology, biomarkers and animal models of the disease, thus laying the conceptual basis for what follows. The middle section provides an overview of the established therapies, such as calcium channel blockers, prostanoids, endothelin receptor antagonists, phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors and inhaled nitric oxide. The last section explores novel pathways and emerging therapeutic approaches including soluble guanylate cyclase stimulators, Rho-kinase inhibitors, inhibitors of serotonin receptors and transporters, peptide growth factors, vasoactive peptides, modulators of redox equilibrium and cyclic nucleotide homeostasis, as well as immunosuppressive and anti-proliferative agents. Particular attention is given to the clinical applications of these experimental therapies, that are on the horizon. The book thus spans the continuum from basic science to clinical applications.

The pulmonary circulation is by nature difficult to evaluate for the clinician and a challenge to investigate by radiographic and hemodynamic methods. In recent years, the field has been revolutionized by major improvements in diagnostic approaches and therapies. Tools for the classification, diagnosis, and management of pulmonary embolism and pulmonary hypertension have been developed and optimized, providing clinicians with detailed and updated guidelines. This volume provides the latest information on the fast-growing and challenging field of acute and chronic pulmonary vascular disorders from some of the field’s major leaders in research, education, and care. The topics discussed are relevant to chest physicians, thoracic surgeons, nurses, students, and teachers, and a well-balanced mix of contributions ensures that doctors, clinicians, and institutions from all around the world will find the information presented to be both informative and useful to their situations.