a.k.a.

A sudden, severe increase in blood pressure to ≥ 180/120

It can lead to a !MI , !Stroke (CVA) or other life-threatening health problems.

Pathophysiology:

• Sudden BP surge overwhelms autoregulation
• Endothelial injury → fibrinoid necrosis of arterioles
• !TMA - Thrombotic Microangiopathy can occur
• Kidneys spiral fast → acute !Renal Failure

Common clinical consequences:

• Encephalopathy: headache, confusion, seizures
• Acute kidney injury
• Heart failure / pulmonary edema
• Vision loss

Labs may show:

• Rising creatinine