AAP Blood Pressure Classification:
From: | To: |
Definition: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines classify blood pressure in children and adolescents using percentiles based on age, sex, and height.
Purpose: Helps identify hypertension in pediatric patients for early intervention and management.
The calculator uses the following classification:
Percentile | Classification |
---|---|
<90% | Normal |
90-94% | Elevated |
≥95% to <95% + 12 mmHg | Stage 1 Hypertension |
≥95% + 12 mmHg | Stage 2 Hypertension |
Details: Early detection of hypertension in children can prevent long-term cardiovascular complications.
Tips: Enter the calculated blood pressure percentile (must be between 0-100). The calculator will classify according to AAP guidelines.
Q1: How is BP percentile determined?
A: Percentiles are calculated based on age, sex, and height using standardized pediatric BP tables.
Q2: What's considered normal BP in children?
A: BP below the 90th percentile for age, sex, and height is considered normal.
Q3: When is medication recommended?
A: Typically for Stage 2 hypertension or Stage 1 with symptoms/target organ damage.
Q4: How many measurements are needed?
A: AAP recommends 3 separate measurements on different occasions for diagnosis.
Q5: What about adolescents ≥13 years?
A: Adult thresholds (≥140/90) may be used in addition to percentile classification.