The recent issue of the European Respiratory Monograph, the book series from the European Respiratory Society, is devoted to pulmonary hypertension, with M.M. Hoeper and M. Humbert as guest editors; two of the most reputable experts in the field in Europe. Pulmonary hypertension is a haemodynamic disorder that may present in many clinical forms, as an intrinsic disease of the pulmonary vasculature or as a complication of a broad spectrum of other diseases. The scientific and clinical knowledge of pulmonary hypertension has increased enormously in the last decade, resulting in improved survival in the most severe forms of the disease. Therefore, Pulmonary Hypertension might be of interest for a wide range of clinicians and scientists.
Pulmonary Hypertension provides a comprehensive and updated review of multiple aspects of the disease. The Monograph is well organised and clearly oriented to the clinician, with algorithms, clinical examples and graphics that contribute to clarify and emphasise the key points in each chapter. In addition to the more conventional chapters on the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, which have been extensively reviewed, there are chapters on aspects that have rarely been addressed in previous monographs or textbooks. Examples include the chapters on pulmonary hypertension in children, and pulmonary Langerhans' cell histiocytosis, in sarcoidosis or in obesity. Furthermore, the Monograph also includes chapters on some difficult-to-handle clinical situations, such as pregnancy and birth control, and perioperative management. Due to the lack of strong scientific evidence on the management of these disorders and clinical situations they have usually been left out of clinical guidelines; therefore, it is appreciated that chapters dealing with these aspects have been included in the Monograph, as they might serve as guidance for the practicing physician.
The Monograph starts with a historical perspective, nicely written by T. Higenbottam, and ends with a ‘glimpse at the future’ by L.J. Rubin and A.J. Peacock. Contributions of these pioneers in the knowledge and management of pulmonary hypertension frame a comprehensive, informative and up-to-date review, made by prestigious experts in this continuously moving field.
I enjoyed reading Pulmonary Hypertension and strongly recommend it, particularly to clinicians dealing with patients presenting with any form of the disorder. I am sure they will find answers to questions raised in daily practice, or at least wise advice to follow.
- ©ERS 2012