This book describes the role of extracellular and
intracellular calcium in hypoxic pulmonary
vasoconstriction (HPV) which can lead to pulmonary
hypertension. In the lungs, HPV can markedly raise
pulmonary arterial pressure. A temporary, moderate
rise in pressure may not be damaging; however,
persistent hypertension (due to chronic hypoxia) can
lead to right heart failure and pulmonary
oedema. Acute HPV can arise from any clinical
condition which results in alveolar hypoxia e.g.
causes of airway obstruction including asthma,
ventilatory insufficiency caused by neurological
defects,...