The role of the laboratory in the assessment of the hypertensive patient

The clinical biochemistry laboratory plays an important role in the assessment of the hypertensive patient. An understanding of the physiological components of blood pressure regulation, in association with the history and physical examination, and a simple panel of screening tests maypoint to the presence of end organ damage or a secondary cause of hypertension. The specialist laboratory provides support to the identification of rare secondary causes of hypertension, particularly endocrine disorders.