[White coat hypertension and cardiovascular risk: a controversial association?]

White coat hypertension is a frequent phenomenon. Its diagnosis is based on 24-hours ambulatory blood pressure monitoring or repeated home blood pressure measurement. It has been recognised now as a hypertension phenotype of which innocence is under debate. Some recent studies have suggested an association with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The European Society of Hypertension (ESH) and the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines put strong emphasis on detecting it and taking it in charge with lifestyle changes in addition to drug treatment in specific situations, to lower cardiovascular risk.