Cor pulmonale

Changed by Derek Smith, 25 Sep 2018

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Cor pulmonale is defined as a failure of the structure and function of the right ventricle in the absence of left ventricular dysfunction. It is caused by an underlying primary disorder of the respiratory system. It has a generally chronic and slowly progressive course, although acute onset or worsening with life-threatening complications can occur.

Pathology

Aetiology

Radiographic features

Plain radiograph
  • central pulmonary artery enlargement 7
  • changes consistent with underlying pulmonary disease as outlined above
Echocardiography

May show dilatation of the left ventricular cavity or thickening of the right ventricular free wall 6.

Treatment and prognosis

Cor pulmonale generally carries a poor prognosis. Long-term oxygen therapy is often considered the main treatment option.

History and etymology

From the Latin, cor: 'heart', and pulmonale, 'relating to the lungs', ultimately from the Latin pulmo meaning 'lung'.Therefore 'heart secondary (relating)to / relating to the lungs'.

See also

  • -</ul><h5>Echocardiography</h5><p>May show dilatation of the left ventricular cavity or thickening of the right ventricular free wall <sup>6</sup>.</p><h4>Treatment and prognosis</h4><p>Cor pulmonale generally carries a poor prognosis. Long-term oxygen therapy is often considered the main treatment option.</p><h4>History and etymology</h4><p>From the Latin, cor: 'heart', and pulmonale, 'relating to the lungs', ultimately from the Latin pulmo meaning 'lung'.<br>Therefore 'heart secondary (relating) to the lungs'.</p><h4>See also</h4><ul>
  • +</ul><h5>Echocardiography</h5><p>May show dilatation of the left ventricular cavity or thickening of the right ventricular free wall <sup>6</sup>.</p><h4>Treatment and prognosis</h4><p>Cor pulmonale generally carries a poor prognosis. Long-term oxygen therapy is often considered the main treatment option.</p><h4>History and etymology</h4><p>From the Latin, cor: 'heart', and pulmonale, 'relating to the lungs', ultimately from the Latin pulmo meaning 'lung'. Therefore 'heart secondary to / relating to the lungs'.</p><h4>See also</h4><ul>

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