target organ damage
Structural or functional abnormalities in organs particularly susceptible to cardiovascular risk factors, indicating established disease.
Full Definition
Target organ damage refers to structural or functional abnormalities in organs that are particularly susceptible to the effects of cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. Key target organs include the heart (left ventricular hypertrophy), kidneys (proteinuria, reduced eGFR), brain (stroke, cognitive impairment), and blood vessels (arterial stiffening, atherosclerosis). The presence of target organ damage indicates that cardiovascular risk factors have progressed beyond asymptomatic stages and may warrant more intensive treatment. Detection often guides treatment intensity and prognosis.
Usage
Usage note: Specify which organs are affected when documenting target organ damage.
In Context
- "Evidence of target organ damage justified intensive blood pressure lowering despite patient's age." — hypertension clinic note
- "Target organ damage assessment should be part of comprehensive cardiovascular risk evaluation." — clinical practice guideline