Based on risk stratification, what is the 1-year risk of mortality for a patient with WHO FC III symptoms and a right atrial pressure of 11 mm Hg?

In patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), risk stratification is crucial for predicting outcomes, including the one-year risk of mortality. The World Health Organization Functional Classification (WHO FC) is often utilized for this purpose, with FC III indicating patients who experience marked limitation of physical activity due to their condition but are comfortable at rest. The right atrial pressure is another significant factor; a value of 11 mm Hg is on the higher side but not extremely elevated.

Patients classified as WHO FC III typically exhibit an intermediate risk of mortality, often ranging around 5-10% within a year. This classification is informed by studies that correlate functional capacity with survival—FC III represents a stage where patients have more pronounced disease symptoms but are not yet in the most severe category of FC IV, which would indicate a higher risk. The inclusion of the right atrial pressure further supports the assessment of risk, as it reflects hemodynamic status. Although a right atrial pressure of 11 mm Hg is concerning, it does not elevate the risk beyond the intermediate category in this context.

In summary, considering both the functional capacity (FC III) and right atrial pressure, patients present a one-year mortality risk that aligns with the intermediate range, substantiating