Which term is used to describe persistently elevated blood pressure with an unknown cause that accounts for approximately 90% of hypertension cases?

Choice A reason: Secondary hypertension has an identifiable cause, like renal disease, and accounts for about 10% of cases. Primary hypertension, with no known cause, is far more common, making this an incorrect term, as it does not describe the majority of hypertension cases seen clinically. Choice B reason: Malignant hypertension is a severe, rapidly progressing form with organ damage, not the common form of hypertension. Primary hypertension, with no identifiable cause, represents 90% of cases, making this term incorrect, as it refers to a rare, acute condition, not the typical presentation. Choice C reason: Primary hypertension, also called essential hypertension, has no identifiable cause and accounts for approximately 90% of cases. It develops gradually, influenced by genetics and lifestyle, making this the correct term to describe the most common form of persistently elevated blood pressure. Choice D reason: Accelerated hypertension involves rapid blood pressure elevation with organ damage, not the typical chronic, idiopathic form. Primary hypertension, without a known cause, is the predominant type, making this term incorrect, as it describes a severe, less common variant of hypertension.