Accelerated and malignant hypertension at Muhimbili Medical Centre

ABSTRACT

During the period between February 1986 and February 1987; 29 patients with accerlated and malignant hypertension were admitted to the medical wards of Muhimbili Medical Centre; Dar es Salaam. The mean age of the patients was 40 years (range 19-61 years). 15 (51.7 percent) patients were in cardiac failure and 13 (44.8 percent) patients had renal failure. 11 (37.9 percent) patients died. The causes of death were neurological complications 5; renal failure 4; and cardiac failure 2. Because the features of accerlated and malignant hypertension are diverse; a high index of suspicion and thorough examination is needed for its diagnosis. Deaths were due to the complications which can be prevented by proper management; follow-up and education of patients with begign hypertension