Pulmonary Vascular Disease Program
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a spectrum of disease that share a common finding of high blood pressure in the lungs which can cause strain on the heart and lead to serious problems. PH can result from a variety of causes, including chronic heart or lung disease, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or interstitial lung disease (ILD). Our PH specialists work with a multidisciplinary team including cardiology and rheumatology, to expertly evaluate and treat those with PH.
We also evaluate and treat patients with pulmonary embolism (PE) and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). PE is a blood clot that develops in a blood vessel in the body then travels to a lung artery where it suddenly blocks blood flow. Pulmonary hypertension and heart failure can develop over time if these blood clots do not resolve. Our specialists again work with a multidisciplinary team including radiology, cardiology, and hematology, to determine the impact of the blood clot on cardiac and exercise function, as well as assessment for type and duration of anticoagulation or other specific therapies for CTEPH. We also collaborate closely with the Pulmonary Hypertension and Thromboendarterectomy Program at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston to evaluate patients if advanced therapies are needed.
Our providers are involved in both clinical research and trials. Dr. Badlam is specifically interested in investigating gender differences and the effects of sex hormones on pulmonary hypertension. Dr. Antkowiak has investigated the effect of obesity on pulmonary arterial hypertension. We do offer patients with PH the opportunity to enroll in clinical trials, which aim to improve treatment protocols and patient outcomes.
Faculty Collaborators:Jessica Badlam, MD
Maryellen Antkowiak, MD
William Hopkins, MD (Cardiology)