Arterial hypertension in children: few clinical trials.

Arterial hypertension in children is based on a statistical definition taking into account gender, age and height. Arterial hypertension is rare in this age group, and its clinical consequences are poorly documented. An underlying cause is more likely to be associated with hypertension in children than in adults, including overweight and renal, cardiac and endocrine disorders. Management of hypertensive children is based first on lifestyle modifications. The value of antihypertensive drugs has not been demonstrated in terms of morbidity and mortality. When antihypertensive therapy is unavoidable, certain diuretics and betablockers should be chosen.