Similar proportions of subjects with masked hypertension are detected by ABP and HBP monitoring. Although disagreement in the diagnosis between the two methods is not uncommon, in the majority of these cases the deviation of the diagnostic BP above the threshold in not clinically important. Both ABP and HBP monitoring appear to be appropriate methods for the detection of masked hypertension.

In conclusion, these data suggest that noninvasive 24-h ABPM is feasible and provides reproducible values. Future studies should validate the prognostic ability of 24-h aortic hemodynamics.

There is limited evidence and significant heterogeneity in the studies that validated automated blood pressure monitors in atrial fibrillation. These monitors appear to be accurate in measuring SBP but not DBP. Given that atrial fibrillation is common in the elderly, in whom systolic hypertension is more common and important than diastolic hypertension, automated monitors appear to be appropriate for self-home but not for office measurement.

The Microlife Watch BP Office device used in the oscillometric or the auscultatory mode fulfills the validation criteria of the International protocol and therefore can be recommended for clinical use.