Left atrial pressure (LAP)

Left atrial pressure refers to the blood pressure within the left atrium of the heart. It is a key hemodynamic variable reflecting left ventricular end-diastolic filling pressures and overall cardiac function. Elevated LAP is commonly seen in conditions such as heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, mitral valve disease, and chronic hypertension. It contributes to symptoms like dyspnea and predisposes patients to arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation. While it serves as an important biomarker for cardiovascular disease management—particularly in guiding therapy for ambulatory heart failure patients via implantable monitors—it is not itself a molecular target but rather a physiologic measurement derived from various underlying pathologies.

Other names

LAPLeft atrial filling pressureLeft atrial hemodynamic pressure

Not applicable as this is not a drug target. However, drugs that lower blood volume or improve cardiac function can reduce elevated LAP.