Cor pulmonale

Last revised by Avni K P Skandhan on 1 Feb 2021

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.

  • dominant R wave in lead V1 10
    • defined as an R wave height > 7 mm or R/S > 1
    • accompanied by dominant S waves in lead V6
  • right axis deviation
  • secondary repolarization abnormalities
    • simultaneous involvement of the right precordium (V1-4) and inferior limb leads (II, III, aVF)
    • depressed ST segments with T wave inversion
  • right atrial enlargement
  • central pulmonary artery enlargement 7
  • changes consistent with the underlying pulmonary disease as outlined above

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

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

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'.

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