Measurement of Vasoconstrictor Tone in the Extremities in Hypertension

Abstract
Tetraethylammonium (TEA) given intravenously decreases peripheral vascular resistance. The magnitude of the decrement is related directly to the prevailing level of neurogenic vasomotor tone. TEA was administered to hypertensive and normotensive subjects. The decrements in resistance of the foot did not differ between the two groups. The decrements of the forearm also did not differ. These findings suggest that the prevailing level of neurogenic vasomotor tone in the extremities is not increased in hypertension.