Cardio Flashcards

1
Q

what is angina pectoris?

A

chest pain arising from the heart as a result of myocardial ischaemia

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

name 3 types of angina

A

classic/stable, unstable/crescendo, Prinzmetal’s. decibitus, nocturnal.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

what are the differences between stable and unstable angina

A

stable angina is induced by effort + relieved by rest. unstable angina occurs at rest.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

what is Prinzmetal’s (variant) angina?

A

angina that occurs without provocation, usually at rest - due to coronary artery spasm.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

what causes angina?

A

atheroma of coronary arteries leading to myocardial ischaemia

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

give 5 risk factors for angina

A

diabetes, smoking, hyperlipidaema, hypertension, family history, lack of exercise

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

list the differential diagnoses of central chest pain

A

angina, ACS, pericarditis, myocarditis, aortic dissection, massive PE, musculoskeletal, GORD

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

describe the presentation of angina

A

central, crushing, retrosternal chest pain - comes on with exertion, relieved by rest. may radiate to arms and neck

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

list some things that can exacerbate angina

A

exercise, cold weather, anger, excitement, heavy meals

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

give some clinical features, apart from pain, of angina

A

dyspnoea, nausea, sweating, faintess

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q

what investigation would you carry out on a patient with angina? what would you find?

A

exercise ECG test - ST depression, flat/inverted T waves

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q

how would you manage stable angina?

A

modify risk factors. secondary prevention - aspirin, statins. symptomatic treatment - GTN spray, CCBs, beta blockers, nitrates.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q

how does aspirin work as a method of secondary prevention in angina?

A

inhibits COX2 and formation of thromboxane A2 - a platelet aggregating agent. reduces risk of coronary events.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q

name an alternative to aspirin in secondary prevention of coronary events.

A

clopidogrel

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q

give some examples of beta-blockers

A

bisoprolol, atenolol, propranolol, metoprolol

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q

describe the mechanism of action of beta blockers in improving symptoms of angina

A

by acting on beta1 receptors in the heart, they reduce the force of contraction and speed of conduction in the heart - relieves myocardial ischaemia by reducing cardiac work and oxygen demand

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q

what is the major contra-indication of beta-blockers? why?

A

asthma - beta blockers also act on beta2-receptors which are found in the smooth muscles of airways - cause bronchoconstriction!

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q

give some examples of calcium channel blockers

A

diltiazem, amlodipine, nifedipine, verapamil

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q

describe the mechanism of action of calcium channel blockers in controlling symptoms of stable angina

A

they decrease calcium entry into vascular and cardiac cells. they reduce myocardial contractility and suppress cardiac conduction - reduce heart rate, contractility and afterload - reduces myocardial oxygen demand - prevents angina.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q

what are the major side effects of calcium channel blockers?

A

postural hypotension/dizziness, headache, ankle oedema - due to systemic vasodilation

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q

describe the mechanism of action of short-acting (GTN) nitrates and long-acting nitrates in acute angina

A

Nitrates are converted to NO, which increases cGMP and reduces intracellular calcium in vascular smooth muscle cells - vasodilation of venous capacitance vessels reduces preload and LV filling. reduced cardiac work and myocardial oxygen demand - relieve angina

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
22
Q

what interventions may be used in worsening angina?

A

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) - balloon used to dilate atheromatous arteries (stents can be placed) - via catheter. Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
23
Q

what is involved in a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG)?

A

internal mammary artery used to bypass stenosis in the LAD or RCA.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
24
Q

what does the term acute coronary syndromes (ACS) include?

A

unstable angina. NSTEMI. STEMI.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
25
Q

how would you differentiate between NSTEMI and unstable angina?

A

NSTEMI involves enough occlusion to cause myocardial damage - elevation of serum troponin and creatinine kinase. unstable angina doesn’t cause myocardial damage.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
26
Q

describe the common pathology behind acute coronary syndromes

A

1) rupture/erosion of fibrous cap of an atheroma plaque in a coronary artery 2) platelet-rich clot forms 3) vasoconstriction due to chemicals released by platelets

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
27
Q

name 3 non-modifiable risk factors for ACS

A

age. male gender. FHx of IHD

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
28
Q

name 3 modifiable risk factors for ACS

A

smoking, hypertension, DM, hyperlipidaemia, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, cocaine use

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
29
Q

list 3 symptoms and 3 signs of ACS

A

symptoms - central chest pain, sweating, dyspnoea, palpitations. signs - sweating, anxiety, tachycardia, pallor.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
30
Q

what biochemical markers would you test for in ACS?

A

troponin, creatinine kinase, myoglobin

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
31
Q

what would you expect to see on a 12 lead ECG in ACS?

A

hyperacute (tall) T waves ST elevation (STEMI) or ST depression (NSTEMI/unstable angina). new LBBB. after hrs-days - T wave inversion, Q waves.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
32
Q

what would be your immediate management of ACS?

A

MONA: Morphine, Oxygen, Nitrates, Aspirin ± clopidogrel/ticragelor

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
33
Q

what drugs might a patient be put on after an ACS, for secondary prevention?

A

beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, statins, aspirin

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
34
Q

what might the non-medical management of ACS be?

A

PCI - percutaneous coronary intervention

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
35
Q

list some possible complications following a MI

A

heart failure, rupture of interventricular septum, mitral regurg, arrhythmias, heart block, pericarditis, thromboembolism, ventricular aneurysm

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
36
Q

give 3 causes of heart failure

A

ischaemic heart disease; valvular disease; pericarditis; pericardial effusion; alcohol; cocaine; myocarditis; arrhythmias; cardiomyopathies; anaemia; pulmonary hypertension

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
37
Q

what are the types of heart failure?

A

systolic/diastolic, low output/high output, left/right

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
38
Q

what compensatory mechanisms are activated as the heart begins to fail?

A

sympathetic nervous system, RAAS, ventricular dilatation, ventricular remodelling

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
39
Q

what causes the oedema and dyspnoea seen in heart failure?

A

activation of the RAAS by decreased renal perfusion (due to low CO) - salt/water retention - peripheral/pulmonary congestion

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
40
Q

describe the ventricular remodelling seen in heart failure

A

initial dilatation. hypertrophy, loss of myocytes, increased interstitial fibrosis.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
41
Q

what is the difference between systolic and diastolic failure?

A

systolic = inability of ventricles to contract normally diastolic = inability of ventricles to relax and fill normally

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
42
Q

give 3 symptoms of heart failure

A

exertional dypnoea, orthopnoea (SOB on lying down), paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnoea, fatigue, oedema, weight loss, wheeze

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
43
Q

give 5 signs of heart failure

A

cold peripheries, cyanosis, displaced apex, wheeze, RV heave, valve disease, hypotension, pleural effusion, oedema, ascites

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
44
Q

what are 5 features of heart failure seen on CXR?

A

ABCDE: Aleveolar oedema (bats wings) Kerly B lines (interstitial oedema) Cardiomegaly Dilated upper lobe vessels pleural Effusion

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
45
Q

list 2 major criteria on the Farmingham criteria for heart failure diagnosis

A

SAW PANIC S3 heart sound - gallop. Acute pulmonary oedema. Weight loss Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnoea Abdominojugular reflux Neck vein distension Increased cardiac shadow on CXR (cardiomegaly) Crepitations (crackles heard in lungs)

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
46
Q

list 2 minor criteria on the Farmingham criteria for heart failure diagnosis

A

HEART ViNo: Hepatomegaly Effusion, pleural Ankle oedema bilaterally exeRtional dyspnoea Tachycardia Vital capacity decrease by 1/3rd Nocturnal cough

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
47
Q

describe the NHYA classification of heart failure

A

class I = no limitation class II = mild limitation (comfort at rest, fatigue and dyspnoea on normal physical activity) class III = marked limitation (comfort at rest, dyspnoea on gentle physical activity) class IV = symptomatic at rest, exacerbated by any physical activity

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
48
Q

what investigations would you do in heart failure?

A

ECG - underlying cause. CXR. Bloods - BNP (B type natriuretic peptide - if normal, HF is excluded). echocardiography.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
49
Q

describe the medical management of heart failure

A

loop diuretics (furosemide) ± spironolactone ± thiazide. ACE inhibitors (or ARB). beta blockers. ± digoxin, vasodilators (e.g. hydralazine)

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
50
Q

name 2 ACE inhibitors

A

ramipril, lisinopril

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
51
Q

what causes the common cough side effect of ACE inhibitors? what drug class are a good alternative?

A

increased levels of bradykinin, which is usually inactivated by ACE. ARBs

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
52
Q

how do ACE inhibitors act?

A

prevent conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a vasoconstrictor and stimulates aldosterone secretion - blocking this reuces afterload, lowering BP.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
53
Q

name 2 angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs)?

A

losartan, candesartan

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
54
Q

how do angiotensin receptor blockers work?

A

block action of angiotensin II on the AT1 receptor. similar effects as ACE inhibitors.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
55
Q

give 3 causes of mitral stenosis

A

rheumatic heart disease (most), congenital, cardial fibroelastosis, malignant carcinoid, prosthetic valve.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
56
Q

what is mitral stenosis?

A

thickening and immobility of valve leaflets - leads to obstruction of blood flow from left atrium to left ventricle.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
57
Q

give 3 symptoms of mitral stenosis

A

exertional dyspnoea, fatigue, palpitations, chest pain, systemic emboli, haemoptysis

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
58
Q

what is the heart murmur heard in mitral stenosis?

A

rumbling mid-diastolic murmur

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
59
Q

what diagnostic tests would you perform in mitral stenosis? what would you see?

A

ECG - AF, bifid P waves. CXR - LA enlargement, pulmonary oedema, mitral valve calcification. Echo - diagnostic.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
60
Q

how would mitral stenosis be treated?

A

diuretics - decrease pre load. balloon valvuloplasty / valve replacement.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
61
Q

give 2 complications of mitral stenosis

A

pulmonary hypertension. emboli (dilated LA). pressure from large LA on local structures e.g. hoarseness due to compression of L recurrent laryngeal

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
62
Q

give 3 causes of mitral regurgitation

A

prolapsing mitral valve + rheumatic heart disease = most common. infective endocarditis, annular calcification, LV dilatation, ruptured chordae tendinae, papillary muscle rupture. connective tissue disorders (Ehlers-Danos, Marfan’s). cardiomyopathy, congenital.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
63
Q

give 3 symptoms of mitral regurgitation

A

dyspnoea, fatigue, palpitations, infective endocarditis

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
64
Q

what murmur is heard in mitral regurgitation?

A

pansystolic murmur

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
65
Q

what does a bifid P wave indicate on ECG?

A

bifid P waves = p mitrale - mitral valve disease

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
66
Q

what investigations would you perform in valvular heart disease?

A

ECG, CXR, echo ± cardiac catherization

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
67
Q

what would you see on CXR in mitral regurgitation?

A

enlarged LA and LV, mitral valve calcification, pulmonary oedema

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
68
Q

how would you treat mitral regurgitation?

A

asymptomatic = echo every 1-5yrs. anticoagulate with warfarin if - AF, hx of embolism, prosthetic valve, additional mitral stenosis. diuretics. surgery - valve replacement or repair.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
69
Q

give 3 causes of aortic stenosis

A

degeneration and calcification of normal valve (in the elderly). calcification of congenital biscuspid valve (middle age). rheumatic heart disease.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
70
Q

what is the classical triad of symptoms in aortic stenosis?

A

SAD: Syncope Angina Dyspnoea - heart failure

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
71
Q

what murmur is heard in aortic stenosis?

A

ejection systolic murmur

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
72
Q

what would you expect to see on an ECG in aortic stenosis?

A

p mitrale, LVH with strain pattern (depressed ST and T wave inversion in I, AVL, V5 and V6)

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
73
Q

what would you see on a CXR of a patient with aortic stenosis?

A

normal heart size, prominent ascending aorta, valvular calcification

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
74
Q

how would you treat aortic stenosis?

A

prompt valve replacement

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
75
Q

what are the most common causes of aortic regurgitation?

A

rheumatic fever and infective endocarditis

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
76
Q

give 3 causes of acute aortic regurgitation

A

infective endocarditis, acute rheumatic fever, dissection of the aorta, AAA dissection, prosthetic valve failure

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
77
Q

give 3 causes of chronic aortic regurgitation

A

chronic rheumatic heart disease, syphilis, rheumatoid arthritis, severe hypertension, biscupid aortic valve, aortic endocarditis, Marfan’s, osteogenesis imperfecta

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
78
Q

give 3 symptoms of aortic stenosis

A

exertional dyspnoea, orthopnoea, paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnoea, palpitations, angina, syncope, CCF

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
79
Q

what murmur is heard in aortic regurgitation?

A

early diastolic murmur. “at L sternal edge in 4th intercostal space”

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
80
Q

what would you see on CXR/ECG in aortic regurgitation?

A

CXR - cardiomegaly and dilatation of the ascending aorta, pulmonary oedema. ECG - LVH.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
81
Q

how would you treat aortic regurgitation?

A

reduce systolic hypertension - ACE inhibitors. echo every 6-12/12. valve replacement.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
82
Q

what are the 3 main cardiomyopathies?

A

hypertrophic (HCM), dilated (DCM) and restrictive

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
83
Q

what is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy?

A

ventricular hypertrophy in absence of abnormal loading conditions - LV outflow tract obstruction.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
84
Q

what causes hypertrophic cardiomyopathy?

A

50% = autosomal dominant 50% = sporadic.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
85
Q

what is the major consequence of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy?

A

sudden cardiac death in young people

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
86
Q

name 2 clinical features of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

A

can be asymptomatic. angina, syncope, sudden death, systolic thrill.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
87
Q

what investigations might you carry out in cardiomyopathy?

A

CXR, ECG, echo. cardiac MR.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
88
Q

how would you treat hypertrophic cardiomyopathy?

A

beta blockers/CCBs to control symptoms. anticoagulate to prevent emboli. implantable defib.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
89
Q

give 3 causes of dilated cardiomyopathy

A

alcohol, hypertension, haemachromatosis, viral infection, autoimmune, congenital.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
90
Q

give 3 clinical features of dilated cardiomyopathy

A

dyspnoea, emboli or arrhythmia, displaced apex beat, S3 gallop, pleural effusion, oedema, jaundice, ascites.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
91
Q

how would you treat dilated cardiomyopathy?

A

bed rest. diuretics, digoxin, ACE inhibitors. biventricular pacing/implantable cardiac defibs. heart transplant.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
92
Q

what is restrictive cardiomyopathy?

A

rigid myocardium restricting diastolic ventricular filling.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
93
Q

give 2 causes of restrictive cardiomyopathy

A

amyloidosis. haemachromatosis. sarcoidosis. scleroderma. idiopathic.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
94
Q

give 3 clinical features of restrictive cardiomyopathy

A

constrictive pericarditis. raised JVP. oedema, ascites, features of RVH.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
95
Q

what investigation would you perform in order to diagnose restrictive cardiomyopathy?

A

cardiac catheterisation.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
96
Q

what are the 2 causes of ventricular septal defect?

A

congenital. acquired post-MI.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
97
Q

how might a ventricular septal defect present?

A

severe heart failure in infancy. OR - asymptomatic, detected later in life

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
98
Q

does a smaller ventricular septal defect produce louder or quieter murmurs?

A

louder

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
99
Q

what murmur is heard in VSD?

A

harsh pansystolic murmur at left sternal edge, with systolic thrill

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
100
Q

give 2 complications of a ventricular septal defect

A

aortic regurgitation, infundibular stenosis, IE, pulmonary hypertension, Eisenmenger’s complex.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
101
Q

what is seen on a CXR of someone with a ventricular septal defect?

A

Small VSD - normal sized heart ± enlarged pulmonary blood vessels. Large VSD - cardiomegaly, large pulmonary arteries, marked enlargement of pulmonary vessels.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
102
Q

how would you manage a ventricular septal defect?

A

medical support until spontaneous closure. OR - surgical patch repair or device closure.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
103
Q

what are the different types of atrial septal defect?

A

ostium secundum defects - most common - present in adulthood. ostium primum defects - associated with AV valve abnormalities - present early.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
104
Q

give 3 clinical features of an atrial septal defect

A

pulmonary hypertension, cyanosis, arrhythmia, haemoptysis, chest pain, AF, raised JVP. pulmonary ejection systolic murmur.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
105
Q

what investigations are used to diagnose most structural heart defects?

A

echo. cardiac catheter.

106
Q

how would you treat an ASD?

A

transcatheter or surgical closure

107
Q

what genetic disorder is associated with atrioventricular septal defects?

A

Downs syndrome

108
Q

what structures are involved in an atrioventricular septal defect?

A

atrial septum, ventricular septum, mitral and tricuspid valve

109
Q

what are the clinical features and management of a complete AVSD?

A

breathless neonate, failure to thrive, poor feeding, torrential pulmonary blood flow. repair with PA band.

110
Q

what are the clinical features and management of a partial AVSD?

A

presents in adulthood, similar to small ASD/VSD. treatment not necessary.

111
Q

what is a patent ductus arteriosus?

A

persistent communication between left pulmonary artery and descending aorta - L to R shunt. normally the ductus arteriosus closes within hrs of birth.

112
Q

what are the clinical features of a PDA?

A

3 classic signs: bounding pulse, ‘machinery murmur’, pulmonary hypertension. also - breathless, poor feeding, failure to thrive, Eisenmenger’s syndrome

113
Q

how would you treat a PDA?

A

indometacin (prostaglandin) can stimulate closure. if large - surgical or percutaneous closure.

114
Q

what is Eisenmenger’s syndrome?

A

cyanosis - clubbed and blue toes, pink not clubbed fingers.

115
Q

what is coarctation of the aorta?

A

congenital narrowing of the descending aorta

116
Q

what are the clinical features of coarctation of the aorta? name 2 complications.

A

radiofemoral delay, weak femoral pulse, high BP, systolic murmur. heart failure + IE.

117
Q

how would you treat coarctation of the aorta?

A

surgery or balloon dilation ± stenting

118
Q

what are the consequences of a biscupid aortic valve?

A

go on to develop aortic stenosis - requiring valve replacement. higher risk of IE.

119
Q

give some clinical features of pulmonary stenosis

A

RV failure as neonate. collapse. poor pulmonary blood flow. RVH. tricuspid regurg.

120
Q

how would you treat pulmonary stenosis?

A

ballon valvuloplasty. open vavlotomy.

121
Q

what are the 4 features of tetralogy of Fallot?

A

1 - VSD. 2 - pulmonary stenosis. 3 - RVH. 4 - aorta overriding the VSD

122
Q

what causes tetralogy of Fallot?

A

abnormalities in separation of truncus arteriosus into the aorta and pulmonary arteries early in gestation

123
Q

describe the presentation of tetralogy of Fallot

A

acyanotic at birth. gradually become cyanotic. Fallow (hypoxic) spells - go blue, restless, inconsolable crying - toddlers may squat.

124
Q

what is the characteristic feature of a CXR in tetralogy of Fallot?

A

boot shaped heart

125
Q

how is tetralogy of Fallot managed?

A

oxygen. knee-chest position. morphine. long-term beta blockers. surgery at less than 12 months.

126
Q

list 3 viral causes of acute pericarditis

A

Coxsackie B Influenza EBV Mumps Varicella HIV

127
Q

list 3 bacterial causes of acute pericarditis

A

Pneumonia Rheumatic fever TB Streps Staphs

128
Q

list 5 causes, other than bacterial/viral infection, of acute pericarditis

A

Fungi, MI, uraemia, rheumatoid arthritis, SLE, myxoedema, trauma, surgery, malignancy, radiotherapy, sarcoidosis, idiopathic + drugs

129
Q

describe the pain seen in acute pericarditis

A

sharp, central chest pain - worse on inspiration or lying flat, relieved by leaning forward

130
Q

what might be heard on auscultation of a patient with pericarditis?

A

pericardial friction rub

131
Q

what investigation would you carry out to diagnose acute pericarditis? what would you see?

A

ECG - concave upwards (saddle-shaped) ST segment elevation in all leads

132
Q

how would you treat acute pericarditis?

A

treat underlying cause. NSAIDs for analgesia. colchicine if relapsing.

133
Q

what is constrictive pericarditis?

A

heart is encased in a rigid fibrotic pericardium - prevents diastolic filling of ventricles.

134
Q

what causes constrictive pericarditis?

A

most common in UK = idiopathic. globally = TB. also occurs after any pericarditis.

135
Q

what are the clinical features of constrictive pericarditis?

A

those of right-sided heart failure - raised JVP, oedema, hepatomegaly, ascites, pulsus paradoxus, diffuse apex beat

136
Q

what two investigations would you carry out in constrictive pericarditis and what would you find?

A

CXR - normal/small heart + pericardial calcification. CT/MRI - pericardial thickening/calcification

137
Q

how would you treat constrictive pericarditis?

A

surgical excision of pericardium

138
Q

what is the definition of hypertension?

A

>140/90mmHg based on 2+ readings on separate occasions

139
Q

what are the criteria for treating hypertension?

A

ALL with sustained >160/100mmHg. those with sustained >140/90 that are at high risk of coronary events, have diabetes or end-organ damage

140
Q

list 3 causes of secondary hypertension

A

renal disease - diabetic nephropathy, chronic glomerulonephritis, PKD, chronic tubulointerstitial nephritis. endocrine disease - Conn’s, phaeochromocytoma, Cushing’s, acromegaly. Coarctation of the aorta. pregnancy. steroids. the Pill.

141
Q

give 3 risk factors for hypertension

A

age, FHx, male gender, African or Caribbean origin, high salt intake, sedentary lifestyle, overweight/obese, smoking, excess alcohol intake.

142
Q

what investigations would you carry out on a patient presenting with a high blood pressure reading?

A

take blood pressure again, on at least 1 other occasion. 24h ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM) - exclude white coat effect

143
Q

give 3 examples of non-pharmacological measures you would encourage a patient with hypertension to take

A

weight reduction. Mediterranean diet - oily fish, low saturated fat, low salt. limit alcohol consumption. exercise. smoking cessation. increase fruit and veg intake.

144
Q

what drug would you prescribe for a 45yo caucasian patient with hypertension with no other medical history?

A

ACE inhibitor - ramipril. if CI (cough) - ARB - losartan

145
Q

what drug would you prescribe a 67yo Afro-Caribbean man with hypertension?

A

calcium channel blocker - amlodipine

146
Q

if first line treatment is failing to control a patient’s hypertension, what drug regime would you prescribe them? and if this fails?

A

ACE inhibitor + CCB or ACE inhibitor + thiazide. all 3 if a combination of 2 fails to control.

147
Q

how do calcium channel blockers work to reduce hypertension?

A

decrease calcium entry into vascular smooth muscle cells - vasodilation of arterial smooth muscle, lowering arterial pressure.

148
Q

what are the side effects of CCBs?

A

bradycardia, headaches, flushing

149
Q

what is the most common cardiac arrhythmia?

A

atrial fibrillation

150
Q

what is AF?

A

chaotic, irregular atrial rhythm at 300-600bpm. AV node is conducting some of the atrial impulses - irregular ventricular response. irregularly irregular pulse.

151
Q

list 4 causes of atrial fibrillation

A

heart failure/ischaemia, hypertension, MI, PE, mitral valve disease, pneumonia, hyperthyroidism, caffeine, alcohol, hypokalaemia, hypomagnaesaemia

152
Q

what ECG features would you see in atrial fibrillation?

A

absent P waves irregular QRS complexes atrial rate 300bpm

153
Q

give 3 forms of treatment you would give a patient with atrial fibrillation

A

warfarin - anticoagulation. beta blockers/CCBs - rate control. Cardioversion - rhythm control.

154
Q

describe what you would see on an ECG trace in atrial flutter

A

saw tooth flutter waves between QRS complexes

155
Q

what is the difference between atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter?

A

atrial fibrillation = irregular ventricular conduction of atrial beats. atrial flutter = atrial rate of 300bpm (same as AF), but ventricles conduct every other atrial beat - 150bpm

156
Q

name 2 common causes of heart block

A

coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, fibrosis of conducting tissue

157
Q

what is first degree AV block? how does it appear on ECG?

A

delayed AV conduction. prolonged PR interval (>0.22s).

158
Q

how does Mobtiz type I (second degree) AV block appear on ECG? aka Wenckebach phenomenon

A

progressive PR interval prolongation until a P wave fails to conduct - PR interval then returns to normal, then begins to get longer again.

159
Q

how is Mobitz type II (second degree) AV block seen on ECG?

A

dropped QRS waves aren’t preceded by progressive PR prolongation. wide QRS complex.

160
Q

what is 2:1 or 3:1 advanced second degree AV block?

A

every second or third P wave conducts to ventricles

161
Q

what is third degree AV block? how are ventricular contractions maintained?

A

all atrial activity is failing to conduct to ventricles - atrial and ventricular activity completely dissociated (shown in P and QRS waves). ventricular contractions are being maintained by spontaneous escape rhythms from below site of block.

162
Q

describe the ECG features seen in RBBB

A

secondary R waves in V1. slurred S in V5 and V6

163
Q

list 2 causes of RBBB

A

PE, RVH, IHD, congenital heart disease, idiopathic

164
Q

describe the ECG features seen in LBBB

A

opposite to RBBB. secondary R waves in left ventricular leads (I, AVL, V4-V6). slurred S in V1 and V2.

165
Q

list 2 causes of LBBB

A

IHD, LVH, aortic valve disease, post-op

166
Q

give 3 causes of sinus tachycardia

A

physiological - exercise/excitement. fever, anaemia, heart failure, thyrotoxicosis, acute PE, hypovolaemia, drugs.

167
Q

what causes atrioventricular junctional tachycardias?

A

re-entry circuits - two separate pathways for impulse conduction

168
Q

what are the ECG changes seen in supraventricular tachycardia?

A

absent or inverted P wave after QRS

169
Q

name 2 things that may aggravate a supraventricular tachycardia

A

exertion, coffee, tea, alcohol

170
Q

what is the 1st line management of a supraventricular tachycardia?

A

vagal manoeuvres - breath holding, valsalva manoeuvre, carotid massage

171
Q

what drugs may be used to treat a supraventricular tachycardia?

A

IV adenosine. if fails - verapamil/atenolol.

172
Q

what is the long-term management of a supraventricular tachycardia?

A

radiofrequency ablation of accessory pathway via catheter.

173
Q

what are ventricular ectopic premature beats?

A

a premature beat arising from an ectopic focus in the ventricles - this focus depolarises before the SAN, leading to a premature and inefficient beat.

174
Q

describe the clinical and ECG features of a premature ventricular ectopic beat

A

broad, abnormal QRS complex before you would expect it. patient complains of extra/missed beats/heavy beats - palpitations

175
Q

how would you treat a symptomatic ventricular ectopic beat? what are patients with ventricular ectopic beats at a higher risk of?

A

beta blockers. ventricular fibrillation.

176
Q

what are the ECG features of a ventricular tachycardia?

A

rapid ventricular rhythm with broad abnormal QRS complexes

177
Q

list 3 causes of prolonged QT

A

congenital, hypokalaemia, hypocalcaemia, hypomagnesaemia, tricyclics, macrolides

178
Q

what causes Wolff-Parkinson-White?

A

congenital accessory conduction pathway between atria and ventricles

179
Q

describe the features of a resting ECG in a patient with WPW

A

short PR interval, wide QRS complex due to slurred upstroke (delta wave)

180
Q

what is an aneurysm? how might they cause symptoms?

A

permanent localised dilation of an artery. pressure effects on local structures, or vessel rupture. can be a source of emboli.

181
Q

how might an abdominal aortic aneurysm be discovered?

A

a pulsatile mass palpated on abdo exam. calcification on a plain XR. rupture. epigastric or back pain due to pressure effects.

182
Q

what is the difference between a true and false aneurysm?

A

true aneurysm has the wall of the artery forming a capsule around the aneursym. false aneurysm wall is made up of surrounding tissue.

183
Q

how would a ruptured AAA present?

A

sudden severe epigastric pain radiating to back leading to hypovolaemic shock - collapse

184
Q

how would a ruptured AAA be repaired?

A

endovascular repair with stent insertion, or surgical replacement of aneurysmal section

185
Q

describe the pain of a dissecting aortic aneurysm

A

abrupt onset of severe, tearing central chest pain radiating through back

186
Q

how is a dissecting aortic aneurysm managed?

A

urgent BP control - lanetalol IV. surgical repair.

187
Q

give 3 risk factors for peripheral arterial disease

A

hypertension, smoking, diabetes, diet, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, hyperlipidaemia, age, male gender, FHx

188
Q

what causes peripheral artery disease?

A

atherosclerosis causing stenosis of arteries

189
Q

describe the clinical features of intermittent claudication

A

cramping pain in calf/thigh/buttock after walking a given distance (shorter=more severe) - relieved by rest

190
Q

describe the clinical features of critical ischaemia

A

ulceration, gangrene, pain at rest. burning foot pain at night relieved by hanging legs over the side of the bed

191
Q

what are the 4 stages in the Fontaine classification of peripheral artery disease?

A

asymptomatic - intermittent claudication - ischaemic rest pain - ulceration/gangrene (critical ischaemia)

192
Q

give 3 signs of peripheral artery disease

A

absent femoral, popliteal or foot pulses. cold, white leg(s), atrophic skin, punched out ulcers, postural colour change, capillary refill prolonged

193
Q

what are the 5 Ps of acute limb ischaemia?

A

Paraesthesia Perishingly cold Pallor Paralysis Pain

194
Q

what diagnostic tests would be performed in peripheral artery disease?

A

Ankle-brachial pressure index (ABPI) - ratio of ankle and brachial systolic pressures. colour duplex USS. MR/CT angiography.

195
Q

describe conservative treatment of limb ischaemia

A

exercise, quit smoking, lose weight, manage diabetes and hypertension. clopidogrel (antiplatelet) to prevent progression and reduce risk.

196
Q

how would intermittent claudication be managed, beyond conservative risk reduction treatments?

A

revascularisation - percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) or surgical reconstruction/arterial bypass graft.

197
Q

what are some risk factors for infective endocarditis?

A

congenital - valve defects, VSD, PDA. prosthetic valves. IVDU. poor dental hygiene. soft tissue infections.

198
Q

name the most common causative organism in infective endocarditis?

A

Staphylococcus Aureus (IV drug user, diabetes and surgery)

Streptococcus viridans (dental problems)

199
Q

give 3 organisms (apart from Strep viridans) that can cause infective endocarditis

A

enterococci, staph aureus/epidermidis, diphtheroids, Haemophilus, actinobacillus, Coxiella burnetii, chlamydia. fungi - Candida, aspergillus, histoplasma.

200
Q

what is an infective endocarditis patient at risk of?

A

stroke - vegetations. destruction of valve - regurgitation - worsening heart failure.

201
Q

describe the clinical features of infective endocarditis

A

systemic features of infection - malaise, fever, night sweats, weight loss, anaemia. heart failure + new murmurs. vascular events - embolism ± metastatic abscesses. immune complex deposition - petechial haemorrhages under skin, splinter haemorrhages under nails, Roth’s spots, arthrlagia, acute glomerulonephritis.

202
Q

what investigations should you carry out in suspected endocarditis?

A

3 sets of blood cultures, at different times and sites. bloods - anaemia, neutrophilia, high ESR/CRP. transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) - just standard echo.

203
Q

describe the Duke criteria for diagnosis of IE

A

2 major or 1 maj + 3 min, or 5 min. Major criteria - persistently +ve blood culture. endocardium involvement seen on +ve echo, new murmur. Minor criteria - fever, vascular/immunological signs, +ve blood culture/echo that doesn’t meet major.

204
Q

how would you treat infective endocarditis?

A

before results of culture - IV benzylpenicillin + gentamicin. then tailor to cultures and sensitivity.

205
Q

what is shock?

A

acute circulatory failure with inadequate or inappropriately distributed tissue perfusion - prolonged oxygen deprivation leads to necrosis, organ failure and death

206
Q

list the different types of shock

A

hypovolaemia, cardiogenic, sepsis, anaphylaxis, neurogenic shock

207
Q

give 3 causes of hypovolaemia shock

A

haemorrhages - GI bleed, trauma, AAA dissection etc. fluid loss - burns, diarrhoea, intestinal obstruction.

208
Q

give 3 causes of cardiogenic shock

A

(= pump faillure). ACS, arrhythmias, aortic dissection, PE, tension pneumothorax, cardiac tamponade, endocarditis

209
Q

give 3 signs of hypovolaemic shock

A

pale grey skin, slow capillary refill, sweating, weak pulse, tachycardia

210
Q

name 2 precipitating factors of anaphylactic shock

A

penicillin, contrast, latex, dairy, nuts, insect stings

211
Q

describe the clinical features of anaphylactic shock

A

onset within 5-60mins of exposure. warm peripheries, hypotension, urticarial, angio-oedema, wheezing, upper airway obstruction.

212
Q

how would you manage septic shock?

A

take blood cultures before abx - then co-amoxiclav and tazocin IV

213
Q

how would you manage anaphylactic shock?

A

remove cause. O2. IM adrenaline. IV chlorphenamine and hydrocotisone.

214
Q

how would you manage hypovolaemic shock?

A

raise legs. fluid bolus - repeat if shock improves.

215
Q

what risk score is used to determine stroke risk in AF patient?

A

CHA2DS2-VASc score: Congestive heart failure. Hypertension. Age >75yrs. (2 points, that’s why it’s A2). Diabetes mellitus. S2 - prior stroke (2pts). V - vascular disease Age - 65-74. Sex category - female sex.

216
Q

what is the enzyme that breaks down bradykinin?

A

angiotensin converting enzyme - excess bradykinin (since it’s not being broken down) is the reason why some patients on ACEi get a persistent dry cough

217
Q

explain how ACE inhibitors work

A

ACE inhibitors inhibit conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II in the lungs - this prevents it from acting on the adrenals to increase aldosterone secretion and thus cause water and sodium retention at the kidneys. angiotensin II is also a vasoconstrictor, so ACEi act as vasodilator, and causes sodium and water excretion - lower blood volume, lowers BP.

218
Q

how do angiotensin receptor blockers produce a similar effect to ACEi? give two examples of ARBs

A

by blocking angiotensin II receptors, so its actions cannot be exerted. losartan, candesartan.

219
Q

give 2 examples of ACEis

A

ramipril, lisinopril

220
Q

why do you get hyperkalaema as a side effect of angiotensin 2 receptor blockers?

A

ARBs cause a direct effect on aldosterone production in the adrenals - aldosterone works on the distal convoluted tubules of kidney by causing sodium to be reabsorbed in return for potassium excretion - ARBs reverse this transfer, so there’s potassium retention.

221
Q

calcium channel blockers are negatively inotropic and negatively chronotropic, what does this mean?

A

inotropic - reduces the contraction. chronotropic - lowers the heart rate.

222
Q

how do calcium channel blockers work? give some examples.

A

decrease calcium entry into vascular and cardiac cells. intracellular calcium is lower - relaxation and vasodilation of arterial smooth muscle. reduce myocardial contractility and suppress cardiac conduction, particularly at AV node. this reduces myocardial oxygen demand - important in angina. dihydropyridines (amlodipine, nifedipine) - selective for vasculature. non-dihydropyridines (diltiazem, verapamil)- selective for heart

223
Q

what clotting factors does warfarin work on?

A

2, 7, 9, 10 by inhibiting vitamin K synthesis - so anticoagulates by inhibiting coagulation factor synthesis

224
Q

statins are given to correct hyperlipidaemia, what enzyme do they act on? name 2 statins.

A

HMG-CoA reductase - involved in making cholesterol. so they reduce the cholesterol production in liver and increase clearance of LDL-cholesterol from blood. simvastatin, atorvastatin, pravastatin.

225
Q

amiodarone is used for pharmacological cardioversion, but it also chemically resembles a hormone made naturally by the body - what is this and what can this cause?

A

thyroxine - can cause hyperthyroidism

226
Q

in supraventricular tachycardia, adenosine is administered IV to bring the heart back into normal rhythm, how does it work on the heart? what type of arrhythmias should it be used for?

A

it works via the A1 receptor, which reduces cAMP - so causes cell hyperpolarisation by pushing potassium out of the cell. also relaxes the smooth muscle of the heart causing vasodilation. only used for ventricular tachycardias.

227
Q

why do you need to warn the patient that they may get a sense of ‘impending doom’ after you administer adenosine?

A

because it induces transient heart block in the AV node so the heart stops for a beat or so

228
Q

atropine is derived from the deadly nightshade, but what heart arrhythmia is it used for and how does it help?

A

it is used for any severe bradycardia - it blocks the action of the vagus nerve/parasympathetic system by being a competitive antagonist of muscarinic ACh receptors. dilates pupils, increases heart rate and reduces salivation.

229
Q

if you have a patient that comes in with unstable angina but tells you he is allergic to aspirin, what is then your first line of treatment after giving GTN?

A

clopidogrel monotherapy

230
Q

give an example of a short and a long acting nitrate

A

short - glyceryl trinitrate (GTN). long - isosorbide mononitrate

231
Q

how do nitrates work to reduce the pain of angina?

A

converted to NO, which is a vasodilator - relaxation of capaticance vessels reduces cardiac preload + LV filling, which reduces cardiac work and myocardial oxygen demand.

232
Q

give 2 possible side effects of nitrates

A

flushing, headaches, light headedness, hypotension

233
Q

name 3 beta blockers

A

bisoprolol, atenolol, propranolol, metoprolol

234
Q

how do beta blockers work to improve symptoms of ischaemic heart disease?

A

they reduce force of contraction and speed of conduction in the heart via beta 1 receptors - reducing cardiac work and oxygen demand.

235
Q

how do beta blockers work as a treatment for AF?

A

slow the ventricular rate by prolonging the refractory period at the AV node

236
Q

list the indications for beta blockers

A

IHD - symptoms and improve prognosis. chronic heart failure. AF and other SVTs - reduce rate, maintain sinus rhythm. hypertension - only if other medicines are insufficient.

237
Q

how do beta blockers work as a treatment for hypertension?

A

reduce renin secretion from the kidney, which is mediated by beta1 receptors.

238
Q

give some possible SEs of beta blockers

A

fatigue, cold extremities, headache, nausea, sleep disturbance, ED in men.

239
Q

what major disease is a contraindication to the use of beta blockers?

A

ASTHMA - can cause life-threatening bronchospasm due to blockade of beta2 adrenoreceptors in airways

240
Q

name an aldosterone antagonist

A

spironolactone, epleronone

241
Q

what cardiac indication do aldosterone antagonists treat?

A

chronic heart failure - as an addition to beta blocker and ACEi/ARB

242
Q

name a LMWH. name a drug that is very similar to LMWHs

A

dalteparin, enoxaparin. similar drug - fondaparinux.

243
Q

how do LMWHs work?

A

inhibit factor Xa by inhibiting antithrombin

244
Q

how does fondaparinux work?

A

inhibits factor Xa.

245
Q

how does aspirin work in prevention of thrombosis?

A

it irreversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) to reduce production of pro-aggregation factor thromboxane from arachidonic acid - reduces platelet aggregation and risk of arterial occlusion.

246
Q

give some examples of antiplatelet drugs, apart from aspirin

A

clopidogrel, new oral anticoagulants, glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors

247
Q

how does clopidogrel work?

A

prevents platelet aggregation by binding irreversibly to adenosine diphosphate receptors on surface of platelets - independent of COX pathway, so can be taken with aspirin

248
Q

how do glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors work?

A

prevent platelet aggregation by inhibiting the GPIIb/IIIa receptor on platelet surface

249
Q

name 2 fibrinolytic (thrombolysis) drugs

A

alteplase, streptokinase

250
Q

how do fibrinolytic drugs work?

A

catalyse the conversion of plasminogen to plasmin which acts to dissolve fibrinous clots and re-canalise occluded vessels. - allows reperfusion of tissues, preventing/limiting tissue infarction.

251
Q

name a loop diuretic

A

furosemide, bumetanide

252
Q

give a cardiac indication of loop diuretics

A

symptomatic treatment of fluid overload in chronic heart failure

253
Q

describe the mechanism of loop diuretics

A

act on ascending limb of loop of Henle to inhibit the Na/K/2CL cotransporter that transports the ions into the cell - water follows these ions, so they have a potent diuretic effect. also - cause dilation of capaticance vessels - reduces preload + improves contractile function of the heart.

254
Q

what are potassium sparing diuretics used for? name an example.

A

used as part of combination therapy, to treat hypokalaemia arising from loop/thiazide diuretic use. amiloride.

255
Q

how do potassium sparing diuretics work?

A

weak diuretics. act on distal convoluted tubules in kidney - inhibit sodium and water reabsorption by acting on epithelial sodium channels - causes potassium retention.

256
Q

give an example of a thiazide/thiazide like diuretic

A

bendroflumethiazide, indapamide, chlortalidone

257
Q

describe the mechanism of action of thiazide diuretics

A

inhibit the Na/Cl cotransporter in the distal convoluted tubule of the nephron, preventing reabsorption of sodium and water. also cause vasodilation.

258
Q

how does digoxin work in AF/atrial flutter?

A

reduces heart rate and increases force of contraction (-vely chronotropic, +vely inotropic). works via indirect pathway - increased vagal tone, reduced contraction at AVN and preventing dome impulses travelling to the ventricles.

259
Q

for what cardiac problem might sildenafil be prescribed? what class of drug is this?

A

primary pulmonary hypertension. phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor

260
Q

how does sildenafil work as a treatment of pulmonary hypertension?

A

causes arterial vasodilation by increasing cGMP (normally broken down by PDE5).