Which term describes abnormally low blood pressure?

• A. Hypotension
• B. Hypertension
• C. Tissue perfusion
• D. Vasoconstriction

Answer: (A)

Abnormally low blood pressure is called hypotension. It describes a state where arterial pressure falls below the normal range, often defined as systolic around 90 mm Hg or less or diastolic around 60 mm Hg or less, though exact thresholds can vary with context and patient factors. This term specifically labels the quantity of pressure, not the consequences or mechanisms. Hypertension, by contrast, is high blood pressure. Tissue perfusion refers to the actual delivery of blood (and oxygen) to tissues, which can be compromised if blood pressure is too low, but it isn’t the term for the condition itself. Vasoconstriction is the narrowing of blood vessels and a mechanism that can influence blood pressure, but it isn’t the label for low pressure.