Cor pulmonale

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Cor pulmonale (pronounced: kor pul-mo-na-le) is a medical condition characterized by the enlargement and failure of the right ventricle of the heart as a response to increased vascular resistance or high blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary hypertension).

Etymology

The term "Cor pulmonale" is derived from the Latin "cor" meaning heart and "pulmonale" referring to the lungs. It is used to describe a condition where the heart's structure and function are adversely affected by lung disorders.

Definition

Cor pulmonale is defined as a change in structure and function of the right ventricle of the heart as a result of a respiratory disorder. It is caused by an increase in blood pressure in the pulmonary artery, pulmonary vein, or pulmonary capillaries, together known as the lung vasculature, leading to shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, leg swelling and other symptoms.

Causes

Cor pulmonale is usually caused by chronic pulmonary diseases that result in prolonged high blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries. The most common cause is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Other causes can include pulmonary embolism, interstitial lung disease, and sleep apnea.

Symptoms

Symptoms of cor pulmonale include shortness of breath, chest pain, cyanosis (bluish coloration of the skin due to lack of oxygen), edema (swelling), and syncope (fainting).

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cor pulmonale usually involves a series of tests including echocardiogram, chest X-ray, CT scan, MRI, and pulmonary function tests.

Treatment

Treatment for cor pulmonale aims to manage the underlying cause. This may involve medications to treat lung conditions, oxygen therapy, and in severe cases, lung transplantation.

See also

External links

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