Table 1. World Health Organization functional classification (WHO FC) definitions.
Class | Definition |
WHO FC I | Patients with PH but without resulting limitation of physical activityOrdinary physical activity does not cause undue dyspnoea or fatigue, chest pain or near syncope |
WHO FC II | Patients with PH resulting in slight limitation of physical activityThey are comfortable at restOrdinary physical activity causes undue dyspnoea or fatigue, chest pain or near syncope |
WHO FC III | Patients with PH resulting in marked limitation of physical activityThey are comfortable at restLess than ordinary activity causes undue dyspnoea or fatigue, chest pain or near syncope |
WHO FC IV | Patients with PH with inability to carry out any physical activity without symptomsThese patients manifest signs of right-heart failureDyspnoea and/or fatigue may even be present at restDiscomfort is increased by any physical activity |
PH: pulmonary hypertension.