Prothrombotic mechanisms in primary pulmonary hypertension

Pulmonary hypertensive states are associated with an increased propensity f or thrombosis. This prothrombotic state appears to be a result of pulmonary hypertension promoting endothelial dysfunction and altered hemodynamic sta tus. In some patients with primary pulmonary hypertension, however, a prima ry prothrombotic state directly induces the pulmonary hypertensive state. T his review focuses on the evidence for the association between prothromboti c states, especially increased platelet activation, and the development of pulmonary hypertension.