Pulmonary hypertension in chronic lung diseases: a hospital-based cross-sectional observational study using echocardiographic assessment.

Abstract

Background:

Pulmonary hypertension in chronic lung diseases reflects pulmonary vascular remodeling and chronic hypoxic vasoconstriction, and it worsens exercise tolerance and clinical outcomes.

 Objectives:

To estimate the prevalence and severity of pulmonary hypertension using echocardiographic assessment in chronic lung disease patients and to describe accompanying right heart changes.

 Methods:

This hospital-based cross-sectional observational study was conducted at South Central Hospital, Lalaguda, South Central Railways, India, from January 2025 to October 2025. Adults with established chronic lung disease underwent standardized transthoracic echocardiography for estimation of pulmonary artery systolic pressure and evaluation of right heart structure and function.

 Results:

Among 100 participants (mean age 58.6 ± 11.4 years; 62% males), pulmonary hypertension was detected in 46%. Mild pulmonary hypertension constituted the largest subgroup, while 8% had severe pressure elevation. Participants with pulmonary hypertension had a longer duration of respiratory illness, lower resting oxygen saturation, and a higher frequency of right ventricular dilatation and reduced tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion compared with those without pulmonary hypertension.

 Conclusion:

Echocardiographic pulmonary hypertension was common in chronic lung diseases and was associated with right heart involvement and markers of advanced respiratory impairment.

 Recommendations:

Echocardiographic screening in symptomatic chronic lung disease patients, particularly those with prolonged illness and resting desaturation, can enable early risk stratification and timely referral for comprehensive pulmonary hypertension evaluation.