DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA FOR SYSTEMIC ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION (SAH)

Abstract

High cardiovascular risk is one of the main determinants of morbidity and mortality in different populations. Systemic arterial hypertension (SAH), a chronic condition with high prevalence in Brazil, has well-established diagnosis and treatment, and the correct identification of its diagnostic criteria is essential for proper risk stratification and clinical management. This study consists of a narrative literature review aimed at synthesizing evidence on SAH, with emphasis on diagnostic methods and their different clinical presentations. The methodology was based on a search of scientific databases, followed by a critical analysis of the literature. The results highlight the relevance of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) and home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM) as fundamental tools for the diagnosis and follow-up of SAH. In addition, resistant hypertension is identified as a complex and often underdiagnosed condition, whose detection can be improved through the proper application of these methods.