Childhood hypertension is associated with early endothelial dysfunction and an increased risk of future cardiovascular disease. Endothelial extracellular vesicles (EEVs) have emerged as promising biomarkers of endothelial activation; however, their role in pediatric hypertension remains poorly understood. This observational case-control study aims to compare circulating EEV concentrations between normotensive children and children with newly diagnosed, untreated primary hypertension. The study will also investigate the associations between EEV levels, blood pressure, microvascular endothelial function assessed by laser Doppler flowmetry, and circulating biomarkers of endothelial activation. The findings may improve understanding of endothelial injury in pediatric hypertension and support the development of non-invasive biomarkers for early cardiovascular risk assessment.
Inclusion Criteria:
Exclusion Criteria:
medicina@mefos.hr+38531512800
Children and adolescents with normal blood pressure according to current pediatric hypertension guidelines.
Children and adolescents with newly diagnosed, previously untreated primary hypertension according to current pediatric hypertension guidelines.
medicina@mefos.hr+38531512800
Endothelial Extracellular Vesicles as Biomarkers of Endothelial Activation in Adults With Newly Diagnosed Hypertension
Endothelial Function in Prehypertension
Juvenile Essential Arterial Hypertension and Vascular Function
Be-HealthY: Behavioral Risk Factors for Poor Vascular Health in Youth
Role of Endothelin in the Regulation of Vascular Tone in Patients With Essential Hypertension
End-organ Pathology in Childhood Essential Hypertension
Pediatric Hypertension and the Renin-Angiotensin SystEm (PHRASE)
Office, Home, and Ambulatory Blood Pressure