FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

Which abnormality can present as an isolated elevation of diastolic blood pressure?

1. Chronic kidney disease

2. Isolated systolic hypertension

3. Isolated diastolic hypertension

4. Pseudohypertension

The correct answer is: Isolated diastolic hypertension

Isolated diastolic hypertension refers to a condition in which only the diastolic blood pressure is elevated while the systolic pressure remains within a normal range. This abnormality can occur for various reasons, such as increased vascular resistance or altered vascular compliance, often seen in younger populations or specific clinical scenarios. In this case, when considering the possibility of elevated diastolic blood pressure, it's crucial to recognize that isolated diastolic hypertension is characterized by this specific abnormality, distinguishing it from conditions where both diastolic and systolic pressures are typically affected or where only systolic pressure is elevated. Chronic kidney disease, isolated systolic hypertension, and pseudohypertension involve other dynamics of blood pressure regulation and would not present solely as an elevated diastolic reading. Chronic kidney disease can lead to increased blood pressure readings overall, often affecting both systolic and diastolic pressures. Isolated systolic hypertension reflects an increase in the systolic value while keeping diastolic pressure unchanged. Pseudohypertension occurs when there are falsely elevated readings due to issues such as atherosclerosis or poor arterial compliance, rather than a true increase in diastolic blood pressure alone. Therefore, the correct choice highlights the specific and isolated nature of the