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Diastolic Pulmonary Artery Pressure by Cardiac Catheterization

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

Measures pressure in the pulmonary artery when the heart muscle is relaxed, using a catheter during cardiac catheterization.

Quick summary

["DPAP helps assess pressure and blood flow through the lungs and the heart’s right side."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
94123-7
Short code
dPAP by Cardiac cath
Synonyms
dPAP by Cardiac cath
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
cardiac-catheterization
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

Diastolic pulmonary artery pressure, or DPAP, is a measurement made through a cardiac catheter. It records the pressure in the pulmonary artery, which carries blood from the heart to the lungs, while the heart muscle is relaxed.

Why might I need this test?

This measurement may be part of a cardiac catheterization to evaluate heart function, pulmonary artery pressure, or suspected pulmonary hypertension. It may also help assess blood flow and pressure on the right side of the heart.

How is the test performed?

During cardiac catheterization, a thin flexible tube is guided through a blood vessel to the heart and pulmonary arteries. The catheter records pressures, including DPAP, as the heart beats.

How do I prepare for the test?

DPAP usually does not require separate preparation because it is measured during cardiac catheterization. Follow your care team’s instructions about fasting, medications, and dye allergies, and tell the team about any relevant medical conditions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated DPAP may be associated with pulmonary hypertension or conditions affecting the left side of the heart. A lower value may occur with reduced blood volume or certain right-sided heart conditions. The result must be interpreted with the other catheter measurements, symptoms, and examination findings.

Short name

Diastolic pulmonary artery pressure (DPAP)

Frequently asked questions

Is DPAP the same as pulmonary artery pressure?
DPAP specifically refers to pulmonary artery pressure measured while the heart muscle is relaxed. Pulmonary artery pressure also includes the pressure measured when the heart contracts.
Does this test require a separate blood draw?
No. DPAP is generally measured through a catheter as part of cardiac catheterization, so no additional blood draw is usually needed.
Can I interpret DPAP on my own?
Not reliably by itself. The value is interpreted alongside systolic pulmonary artery pressure, cardiac output, heart and lung findings, symptoms, and the rest of the catheterization results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy