Understanding the Effects of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension on Lean Muscle Mass

Summary

Patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) are at increased risk of muscle loss and decreased physical activity. This study will aim to (1) understand the way in which muscle loss occurs in PAH, particularly the role of fat surrounding the heart, and (2) look at the impact muscle loss has on quality of life, daily physical activity, and hospitalizations in patients with PAH. The findings from this study could help identify potentially treatable factors that may improve the overall quality of life and physical functioning of patients with PAH. Subjects will be asked to attend a baseline visit where the following will be performed: * Measure your vital signs * Undergo a research blood draw, less than 4 tablespoons * Provide a urine pregnancy test (if applicable) * Review demographics, personal history, and medical history * Review current PAH medications * Complete questionnaires on how your PAH affects you * Complete a test of physical performance * Complete a grip strength test * Undergo an echocardiogram (Echo) * Complete a six-minute walk test * Undergo a Chest CT Scan * Undergo a scan of your body composition (DXA scan) * Obtain a weight and body composition measurement on the InBody Scale Subjects will also complete activity moniotring, two 24-hour diet recalls, and participate in remote follow-up visits every 6 months

Detailed Description

In a subset of patients, after obtaining informed consent, patients will be scheduled for an in-person visit with a physical therapist. The subject will have their vital signs checked, blood drawn and then will have the PortaMon device applied to their biceps and their calf muscles. The PortaMon is a wireless NIRS device designed to measure muscle oxygenation non-invasively. It has one channel to measure absolute oxygenated hemoglobin and three channels to measure relative concentrations of oxy-, deoxy-, total hemoglobin concentration changes, and tissue saturation index. Following application and activation of the biosensor and the NIRS device, the physical therapist will demonstrate the exercises to the participant and will observe them performing the exercises. After the conclusion of the session (\~1.5 hours), the subject's vital signs will be reassessed and blood drawn. The second study visit will be at Week 12.

Eligibility Criteria

Interventions