Cardiac Pathologies Flashcards
RADIOGRAPHIC PATTERNS OF CARDIAC
PATHOLOGIES
Enlarged cardiac
shadow
Prominent pulmonary
vessels
Pulmonary oedema
with enlarged cardiac
shadow
Changes in cardiac
contours
Changes in aortic arch
size and shape
What is an atrial septal defect (ASD)?
ASD is a congenital heart defect characterized by an opening in the atrial septum, the wall that separates the two upper chambers of the heart.
What causes an atrial septal defect?
The exact cause is unknown, but it involves the improper development of the heart during fetal growth.
What are the signs and symptoms of an atrial septal defect?
- shortness of breath,
- fatigue,
- swelling of legs and abdomen,
- heart palpitations,
- frequent respiratory infections in children.
What are the complications of an atrial septal defect?
Complications can include pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, stroke, and arrhythmias.
What is the radiographic appearance of an atrial septal defect?
Radiographs may show enlargement of the right atrium and right ventricle, and increased pulmonary vascular markings.
What imaging modalities are used to diagnose an atrial septal defect?
Echocardiography is the primary imaging modality. MRI and CT can also be used for detailed assessment.
What is a ventricular septal defect (VSD)?
VSD is a congenital heart defect characterized by an opening in the ventricular septum, the wall that separates the two lower chambers of the heart.
What causes a ventricular septal defect?
The cause involves improper heart development during fetal growth, often due to genetic factors.
What are the signs and symptoms of a ventricular septal defect?
Symptoms include rapid breathing, shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling of legs and abdomen, and poor weight gain in infants.
What is the radiographic appearance of a ventricular septal defect?
Radiographs may show cardiomegaly (enlarged heart), increased pulmonary vascular markings, and sometimes evidence of heart failure.
What are the complications of a ventricular septal defect?
Complications can include pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, endocarditis, and arrhythmias.
What imaging modalities are used to diagnose a ventricular septal defect?
Echocardiography is the primary imaging modality. MRI and cardiac catheterization can also be used.
What is valvular stenosis?
Valvular stenosis is the narrowing of a heart valve, which restricts blood flow through the valve.
What causes valvular stenosis?
- congenital heart defects,
- rheumatic fever,
- calcification with aging, and
- infections.
