CardioResp Flashcards
What is the 5-year survival rate for lung cancer?
13%
What are the risk factors for lung cancer?
Smoking Airflow obstruction Increasing age Family history Carcinogens eg asbestos
What is the performance scale for lung cancer used for?
To indicate patient’s level of fitness, used when deciding treatment options
What staging is used for lung cancer?
TNM
What is the use of PET scanning in lung cancer?
Helps detect small mets not seen on staging CT
Used if patient is surgical candidate and initial CT suggests low stage
What are the 2 main histological types of lung cancer?
Small cell lung cancer
Non-small cell lung cancer
What are the different types of non-small cell lung cancer?
Squamous cell
Adenocarcinoma
Large cell carcinoma
Bronchoalveolar cancer
In what stages of lung cancer is surgery considered?
I and II (providing patient is fit for surgery)
What is the prognosis for small cell lung cancer?
Poor
Median survival if untreated is 4-12 weeks
Rapid growth
Almost always too extensive for surgery
What is the prognosis for non-small cell lung cancer?
Depends on stage
Stages I and II following resection 5y survival up to 70%
What proportion of lung cancer cases are in smokers or ex-smokers?
85%
What are the components of COPD?
Emphysema
Chronic bronchitis
What is emphysema?
Alveolar wall destruction causing irreversible enlargement of air spaces, distal to the terminal bronchioles
What are the causes of COPD?
Smoking
Alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency
Industrial exposure eg soot
What is the most effective way of preventing COPD progression?
Smoking cessation
What are the aims of long term oxygen therapy in COPD?
Preventing renal and cardiac damage caused by long periods of hypoxia
How long does oxygen therapy need to be given for per day in order to provide survival benefit?
At least 16 hours per day
At what oxygen level is LTOT offered for COPD?
pO2 consistently below 7.3
Or below 8kPa with for pulmonale
What are the conditions for patients having LTOT?
Must be non-smokers
Must not retain high levels of CO2
What are the disadvantages of LTOT?
Loss of independence
Reduced activity
Why are pulmonary rehabilitation classes beneficial for COPD?
Prevent muscles weakening
Prevent increasing breathlessness
Increase livelihood
Prevent social isolation
What do pulmonary rehabilitation classes consist of?
Supervised exercise
Unsupervised home exercise
Nutritional advice
Disease education
What are the signs of an infective exacerbation of COPD?
Change in sputum colour or volume
Fever
Raised WCC and/or CRP
What nebs are given in a COPD exacerbation?
Salbutamol
Ipratropium
What steroids are used in COPD exacerbation?
Prednisolone 30mg stat
Once daily for 7 days
When are antibiotics indicated for COPD exacerbation?
Raised CRP/WCC
Purulent sputum
When is NIV considered for COPD exacerbation?
Type 2 resp failure
pH 7.25 - 7.35
When should you consider ITU referral for exacerbation of COPD?
pH less than 7.25
What does ABPA stand for?
Allergic Bronchopulmomary Aspergillosis
What are the modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease?
Smoking
Diabetes
Hypertension
Hyperlipidaemia
What is S1?
Closure of AV valves (mitral and tricuspid)
What is S2?
Closure of outflow valves (aortic and pulmonary)
In terms of heart sounds, when is systole?
After S1, before S2 starts
When is a 3rd heart sound normal?
Below age 30
What are the causes of S3 and S4 being heard?
Heart failure
MI
Cardiomyopathy
Hypertension
What is a murmur?
Sound produced by turbulent flow of blood through heart, especially over abnormal valves
What murmurs are louder on inspiration? Why?
Right-sided
Inspiration increases venous return to the right side of the heart
What is a thrill?
Palpable murmur
What are the causes of mitral stenosis?
Rheumatic fever
Old age
Calcification
What is the major association with mitral stenosis?
Atrial fibrillation - 60-70% of mitral stenosis patients
What is the murmur of mitral stenosis?
Mid-diastolic murmur ‘rumbling’
Where is mitral stenosis best heard?
With the bell
In apex
Patient lying on left side
How may mitral stenosis lead to right axis deviation on ECG?
High LA pressure due to stenosis AV valve on left (mitral)
Pulmonary venous HTN, leading to pulmonary arterial HTN
Right ventricular hypertrophy
How can mitral stenosis lead to right heart failure?
High LA pressure causing pulmonary HTN
Right ventricular hypertrophy leading to tricuspid regurgitation, and right heart failure
What is the murmur of mitral regurgitation?
Pansystolic - no gap between S1 and S2
Radiates to axilla
What are the causes of mitral regurgitation?
Prolapsing mitral valve Rheumatic mitral regurg Papillary muscle rupture post-MI Cardiomyopathy Connective tissue disorders
What are the ECG signs of mitral regurgitation?
Bifid P waves
Left ventricular hypertrophy
What are the symptoms of aortic stenosis?
Exercise-induced syncope, angina and SOB
What is the murmur of aortic stenosis?
Ejection systolic
Radiates to carotids
What are the other signs of aortic stenosis on examination?
Slow-rising pulse
Low volume pulse
Forceful apex beat
Describe what you hear in aortic stenosis
Murmur loudest straight after S1
Audible gap before S2
What are the causes of aortic regurgitation?
Rheumatic fever
Bicuspid valve
Infective endocarditis
What does the pulse feel like in aortic regurgitation?
Collapsing - wide pulse pressure
What is the murmur of aortic regurgitation?
High-pitched early diastolic murmur
Best heard left sternal edge 4th IC space
Patient leaning forward with breath held in expiration
What are the 3 main causes of heart failure?
Ischaemic heart disease
Non-ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy
Hypertension
What is the equation for cardiac output?
Cardiac output = stroke volume x heart rate
What is the end diastolic volume?
Volume of blood in a ventricle at the end of diastole
What is Starling’s law?
More blood entering the heart during diastole, the more blood is ejected during systolic contraction
What is the ejection fraction?
Fraction of blood pumped out of ventricles with each heart beat
Define pneumonia
LRTI with new consolidation on X-Ray
What is the most common organism causing community acquired pneumonia?
Streptococcus pneumoniae
What are the symptoms of an LRTI?
Usually cough (new or changed in character) Sputum production Breathlessness Wheeze Chest pain Fever Sore throat
What clinical finding makes CAP likely?
Lung crackles
How may CAP present in elderly patients?
Confusion
Less likely to have fever
What is PUO?
Pyrexia of unknown origin
What 5 factors predict risk of death from pneumonia?
Respiratory rate Blood pressure Confusion Blood urea Age over 65 years
What respiratory rate indicates severe pneumonia?
Over 30 per minute
How do you assess confusion in pneumonia?
Abbreviated mental test
What CURB-65 score indicates severe pneumonia?
3 or more
What do you do if a patient has a CURB-65 score of 2?
Use clinical judgement to decide if short inpatient stay required, or hospital supervised outpatient care
What potential complications of pneumonia may be seen on CXR?
Parapneumonic pleural effusion
Empyema
Lung abscess
What are the side effects of beta blockers?
GI disturbances Bradycardia Fatigue Cold peripheries Heart failure Hypotension Dizziness Sexual dysfunction Peripheral vasoconstriction Bronchospasm
Give three examples of beta blockers
Bisoprolol
Atenolol
Propranolol
What are the indications for beta blockers?
Hypertension
Angina
Following MI
Cardiac dysrhythmias e.g. AF
What are the contraindications to beta blockers?
Asthma
Marked bradycardia
Heart block
Hypotension
What are the three main processes responsible for asthma symptoms?
Bronchospasm
Smooth muscle hypertrophy
Mucus plugging
How do you calculate ejection fraction?
Stroke volume divided by end-diastolic volume
What is a normal ejection fraction?
Over 50%
What is REFHF?
Reduced ejection fraction heart failure
What is PEFHF?
Preserved ejection fraction heart failure
Give some differentials for bilateral leg swelling
Drug reaction Heart failure Abdominal mass Obesity Renal failure Liver failure
Give some differentials for unilateral leg swelling
DVT
Trauma
Cellulitis (infective)
What blood results would indicate hepatic congestion?
Hyperbilirubinaemia
Elevated transaminases
Hypoalbuminaemia
What is the most common cause of REFHF?
Ischaemia heart disease
What is the most common risk factor for PEFHF?
Hypertension
What are the risk factors for PEFHF?
Diabetes Hypertension Obesity Age Renal impairment Lung disease
What type of heart failure do arrhythmias commonly cause?
Right or left or congestive
What type of heart failure does obesity commonly cause?
Left PEFHF
Where do you feel for the character of the pulse?
Carotid ie blood leaving the heart
What does a collapsing pulse indicate?
Aortic regurgitation
What does a slow-rising pulse indicate?
Aortic stenosis
How should you determine the rate in AF?
Listen at the apex
What do you look for in the hands in CVS exam?
Clubbing Splinter haemorrhages Tar staining Koilonychia Peripheral cyanosis
Do capillary refill!
What is a thrill?
Palpable murmur
What are the 4 main risk factors for IHD?
Smoking
Diabetes
Hypertension
Hypercholesterolaemia
Give a quick way of doing a systems review
Bowels OK?
Problems with water works?
Breathing problems?
Describe the typical pain caused by an MI
Dull, Central crushing pressure
Radiating to shoulder, arms or jaw
What is pleuritic chest pain?
Sharp
Worse on inspiration
Associated with shortness of breath
What is pericardial pain like?
Sharp
Improved by leaning forward
What is the pain of aortic dissection like?
Instant
Tearing
Inter scapular
May be retrosternal
What is musculoskeletal chest pain like?
Tender areas
Pain reproduced by movement
What is a Stoke-Adams attack?
Collapse without warning plus loss of consciousness for a few seconds
Usually due to third degree heart block
What features of syncope suggest a cardiac cause?
Chest pain, palpitations or shortness of breath before the event
What features of syncope suggest a CNS cause?
Aura
Headache
Dysarthria
Limb weakness
How does the recovery from a syncopal episode help diagnosis?
Cardiac - quick recovery
Seizure - prolonged drowsiness
What are the causes of slow palpitations?
Sick sinus syndrome
AV block
Occasional extrasystoles with compensatory pauses
What are the causes of increased stroke volume?
Valvular lesions
High-output states e.g. Anaemia, pregnancy, thyrotoxicosis
What are the causes of regular, rapid palpitations?
Sinus tachy
Atrial flutter
Atrial tachy
SVT re-entry tachy
What are the ECG signs of aortic stenosis?
P-mitrale
Left ventricular hypertrophy
What are the common bacterial causes of infective endocarditis?
Strep Viridans
Staph aureus or epidermis is
Enterococcus
What are the empirical antibiotics used for infective endocarditis?
Benzylpenicillin and gentamicin
What is the normal speed for ECG paper?
25mm/s
What does the T wave represent?
Ventricular depolarisation
What is the normal PR interval?
120-200ms
3-5 small squares
What is the normal QRS complex?
Less than 120ms
Ie 3 small squares
When is T wave inversion OK?
aVR
Isolated in lead III
How do you calculate rate from an ECG?
300 divided by RR interval (in large squares)
Which leads do you use to calculate the heart axis?
I and aVF
How do you check correct limb lead placement on an ECG?
Look at aVR - everything should be negative
What does atrial flutter look like on ECG?
Sawtooth P waves
What is the underlying rate in atrial flutter? Why is this not the true heart rate?
300
Too fast for AV node to conduct - there is either a 2:1, 3:1 or 4:1 block
What rates may be atrial flutter?
300
150
100
75
What is p-mitrale?
Left atrial enlargement
Bifid p waves
What is p-pulmonale?
Right atrial enlargement
Tall p waves
What does biatrial enlargement look like on ECG?
Tall and bifid p waves
When is 1st degree heart block significant?
PR >300ms
Another conducting disease is present eg BBB
IE with aortic valve involvement
What is Mobitz I?
Wenckebach
Progressive lengthening of PR interval until 1 QRS is dropped
P waves occur at constant rate
What is Mobitz II?
Intermittent failure of AV node to conduct atrial depolarisations to ventricles
What does complete heart block look like on ECG?
No relationship between p waves and QRS
Rate is slow, usually 30-50
What are the causes of complete heart block?
Coronary artery disease
Fibrosis of AV node or bundle of His
Drugs eg digoxin toxicity, diltiazem
What does a short PR interval indicate?
An accessory pathway
The impulse is not going through the AV node (where it would be delayed before reaching the ventricles)
What does right ventricular hypertrophy look like on ECG?
R wave > 5 mm in right ventricular leads
Plus right axis deviation
How can lead V1 be used to assess bundle branch block?
Major deflection up - Right BBB
Major deflection down - Left BBB
What are the principles of AF treatment?
Reduce thromboembolic risk
Control ventricular rate
Alleviate symptoms
How do you estimate stroke risk in AF?
CHADSVASc
What factors predispose to AF?
Hypertension Heart failure IHD Valvular heart disease Thyroid disease Excess alcohol Drug misuse Acutely unwell/periop
Define paroxysmal AF
Duration less than 7 days
Define persistent AF
Duration greater than 7 days
Define permanent AF
Duration greater than 7 days and resistant to therapy
What is the prevalence of AF?
1% general population
10% population over age 80
What is the rate in AF?
Can be fast or slow, depends on ventricular response
Irregularly irregular rhythm
Where do clots tend to form in AF?
Left atrial appendage
What is used for rate control in AF?
Beta blockers
Calcium channel blockers
Digoxin
Why is digoxin only used in sedentary patients?
It doesn’t allow the heart rate to rise physiologically
When is cardio version used in AF?
If acute AF is causing cardiovascular compromise
How can you reduce the frequency of episode of paroxysmal AF?
Beta blockers Class Ic (flecainide or propafenone) Class III (amiodarone)
What is consolidation?
Replacement of alveolar air by fluid, cells, pus or other material
What is air bronchogram?
Air-filled bronchus surrounded by fluid-filled or solid alveoli
What is the clinical equivalent of air bronchogram?
Bronchial breathing
In what conditions do you get air bronchogram?
Consolidation eg pneumonia
Collapse
Pulmonary oedema
In acute asthma, what monitoring should be done?
Continuous pulse of, ECG and blood pressure
What is the medical management of acute asthma?
Nebulised salbutamol 5mg (every 15-30min) Oral prednisolone 40mg Nebulised Ipratropium 0.5mg (4-6hrly) IV magnesium sulfate IV aminophylline (senior)
What are the main inflammatory cells involved in asthma?
Eosinophils and mast cells
What are the main inflammatory cells involved in COPD?
Neutrophils
What is the most effective bronchodilator in COPD?
Anticholinergics eg Ipratropium bromide
When is steroid treatment beneficial in COPD?
Acute exacerbation a
What is step 1 for asthma treatment?
Inhaled short acting beta 2 agonist PRN
What is step 2 of asthma management?
Add inhaled steroid 200-800mcg/day
Often start at 400mcg
What is step 3 of asthma management?
- Add long acting beta 2 agonist
2. Increase steroid dose up to 800mcg as appropriate
What is step 4 of asthma management?
Consider trial of…
A) increase steroid up to 2000mcg/day
B) add a 4th drug e.g. Leukotriene receptor antagonist, theophylline or beta 2 agonist tablet
When is step 5 of asthma management appropriate?
Continuous or frequent use of oral steroids
What is step 5 of asthma management?
Daily steroid tablet at lowest dose providing adequate control
Maintain high dose (2000mcg/day) inhaled steroid
Refer to specialist care
What are the common precipitating factors for asthma?
Allergens Viral infections Occupational factors eg solder fumes, flour Drugs eg beta blockers and NSAIDs Others eg cold air, exercise, emotion
Define type 2 respiratory failure
PaO2 6.5kPa
What is the mechanism behind type 2 respiratory failure?
Ventilatory failure
What are the pulmonary causes of type 2 respiratory failure?
COPD Asthma Fibrosis OSA Pneumonia
What may cause a decreased respiratory drive?
CNS trauma
Sedative drugs
Trauma
What neuromuscular problems can cause type 2 resp failure?
Cervical cord lesions
Guillain-Barre
Myasthenia gravis
Diaphragm paralysis
What is the underlying reason for type I respiratory failure?
V/Q mismatch
What are the causes of type I resp failure?
PE
Pulmonary oedema
Pneumonia
Acute severe asthma
When is CPAP used in type I resp failure?
When pO2 remains less than 8kPa despite 60% O2
What is the difference between CPAP and NIV?
CPAP is constant pressure and so not a form of ventilators support
NIV has 2 pressures (one inspiratory and one expiratory) and is a form of ventilatory support
What are the clinical features of hypoxia?
Cyanosis
Confusion
Restlessness and agitation
Shortness of breath
What are the clinical features of hypercapnia?
Drowsiness Tremor Headache Confusion Peripheral vasodilatation Papilloedema Tachycardia Bounding pulse
What are the risk factors for PE?
Surgery Obs: late pregnancy, C-section Lower limb fracture Varicose veins Malignancy Reduced mobility Previous proven VTE
When is D dimer increased?
Thrombosis Inflammation Post-op Infection Malignancy
What are the symptoms of PE?
Pleuritic chest pain
Shortness of breath
Haemoptysis
What are the ECG signs of PE?
Sinus tachy RV strain pattern in V1-3 Right axis deviation RBBB AF Deep S wave in I Q waves in III Inverted T waves in III
What are the clinical signs of PE?
Pyrexia Cyanosis Tachypnoea Tachycardia Hypotension Raised JVP Pleural rub Pleural effusion
How do you manage a PE?
ABCDE approach Oxygen if hypoxia Fluid rests if hypotensive Morphine 5-10mg + metoclopramide 10mg Thrombolysis if massive PE HEPARIN: dalteparin 17,000units
When is thrombolysis considered for PE?
Hypotensive
Imminent cardiac arrest
Signs of R heart strain on CT/echo
Check for contraindications
What are the absolute contraindications to thrombolysis?
Hemorrhagic stroke/ischaemic stroke
What are the relative contraindications to thrombolysis?
Warfarin
Pregnancy
Advanced liver disease
Infective endocarditis
What are the complications of thrombolysis?
Bleeding Hypotension Intracranial haemorrhage Stroke Reperfusion arrhythmias Systemic embolisation/thrombus Allergic reaction
What are the causes of pneumothorax?
Spontaneous Chronic lung disease Infection Traumatic Carcinoma Connective tissue disorders
What does a pneumothorax look like on CXR?
Area with no lung markings lateral to the edge of the collapsed lung
What are the symptoms of pneumothorax?
Asymptomatic
Sudden onset sob
Pleuritic chest pain
Sudden deterioration of chronic disease
What are the signs of pneumothorax?
Reduced expansion
Hyper-resonance to percussion
Diminished breath sounds
Deviation of trachea in tension pneumothorax
When should you aspirate a pneumothorax?
If SOB, and rim of air>2cm on CXR
How should you manage a secondary pneumothorax?
Chest drain if: SOB, >50y, rim of air >2cm on CXR
IF criteria not met, aspirate and admit for 24h
Why is tension pneumothorax a medical emergency?
Pushes the mediastinum into the opposite hemithorax which compresses the great veins
Leads to Cardiorespiratory arrest if the air is not removed quickly
How do you manage a tension pneumothorax?
Don’t delay with a CXR
Wide bore needle & syringe into 2nd IC space, midclavicular line
Remove plunger to allow trapped air to bubble through syringe, using saline as a water seal
Alternatively, large bore cannula in same location
What are Light’s criteria?
Used if protein in pleural effusion is 25-35g/L
It is an exudate if any 1 of the following are true:
Pleural fluid : serum protein ratio>0.5
Pleural fluid : serum LDH ratio>0.6
Pleural fluid LDH >2/3 upper limit of normal
What are the causes of an exudative pleural effusion?
Infection
Inflammation
Malignancy
What are the underlying causes of a transudative pleural effusion?
Raised venous pressure
Hypoproteinaemia
What are the causes of raised venous pressure?
Cardiac failure
Constrictive pericarditis
Fluid overload
What are the causes of Hypoproteinaemia?
Cirrhosis
Nephrotic syndrome
Malabsorption
What are the clinical signs of pleural effusion?
Decreased expansion Stony dull percussion Reduced breath sounds Bronchial breathing above effusion Tracheal deviation Signs of associated disease
What are the symptoms of pleural effusion?
May be none
May be SOB and have pleuritic chest pain
When is a chest drain indicated in pleural effusion?
If symptomatic
Don’t insert drain until the diagnosis is well-established
What are the signs of pleural effusion on CXR?
Blunting of costophrenic angles
Meniscus sign
Where should a pleural effusion be aspirated?
One or two IC spaces below the top of the effusion
Just above the upper rib border
What are the criteria for scoring pneumonia severity?
Confusion
Urea > 7mmol/L
Resp rate > 30
BP
What does clear and colourless sputum indicate?
Chronic bronchitis
What does yellow-green sputum indicate?
Pulmonary infection
What does red sputum indicate?
Haemoptysis
What does black sputum indicate?
Smoke or coal dust
What does frothy white-pink sputum indicate?
Pulmonary oedema
What are the three most common causative organisms in CAP?
Strep pneumoniae
Haemophilus influenzae
Mycoplasma pneumoniae
What are the three most common organisms causing hospital-acquired pneumonia?
Gram negative bacilli
Staph aureus
Pseudomonas
Klebsiella
What antibiotics are used to treat CAP?
Amoxicillin
Clarithromycin
Doxycycline
What are the symptoms of pneumonia?
Fever Rigors Malaise Anorexia Dyspnoea Cough Purulent sputum Haemoptysis Pleuritic chest pain
What are the signs of pneumonia?
Pyrexia Cyanosis Confusion Tachypnoea Tachycardia Hypotension Pleural rub Consolidation: decreased expansion, dullness to percussion, increased tactile vocal fremitus, bronchial breathing
What are the clinical signs of consolidation?
Reduced chest expansion
Dullness to percussion
Increased tactile vocal fremitus
Bronchial breathing
What are the potential complications of pneumonia?
Pleural effusion Empyema Lung abscess Resp failure Septicaemia Brain abscess Pericarditis Myocarditis Cholestatic jaundice
What is the prevalence of angina?
In over 55s:
Men 12%
Women 5%
Describe angina
Heavy/crushing central chest pain
Pain on exertion
Relieved by rest of GTN spray
What is CCS class I angina?
Angina only during strenuous or prolonged physical activity
What is CCS class 4 angina?
Inability to perform any activity without angina - angina at rest
What are the non-modifiable risk factors for ischaemic heart disease?
Age
Male
Family history
Personal history of IHD
What is primary prevention?
Control or reversal of risk factors to prevent disease occurring
What factors exacerbate angina?
Cold
Exertion
Large meals
Stress
Why can angina cause breathlessness?
Ischaemic may lead to LV systolic impairment
Causes increased pressure in pulmonary vasculature
Leads to SOB
What is stable angina?
Pain brought on by exertion and relieved by rest or GTN spray, within 10 minutes
What things would make you worry a patient’s angina was unstable?
Increase in severity or duration of symptoms
Reduction of threshold for symptoms
What functional tests are used for angina?
Exercise ECG
Perfusion scanning
Stress ECHO
Perfusion MRI
What symptomatic therapies are used for angina?
Nitrates
Calcium channel blockers
Potassium channel blockers
Give an example of a calcium channel blocker used for angina
Amlodipine
How do beta blockers work in angina?
Reduce sympathetic stimulation of myocardium and reduce work load
How does aspirin work?
Anti platelet
Reduces platelet function to prevent progression of atherosclerotic plaques
When is PCI used in angina?
For pain uncontrolled by medical therapy
Describe PCI
Balloon used to force open narrowed coronary artery lumen
Squeezes the fatty plaque to one side
A stent is inserted to keep the plaque in position and maintain the lumen
What vessel is used for CABG?
Long saphenous vein or
Internal mammary artery
What is the incidence of STEMI?
5 people per 1000 in the UK per year
Who is at increased risk of silent MI?
Elderly
Heart transplant patients
Diabetics
What comprises acute coronary syndrome?
Unstable angina
NSTEMI
STEMI
What is the pathogenesis of acute coronary syndrome?
Plaque becomes unstable
Fissures and exposes underlying plaque to flowing blood
Stimulates platelet aggregation and clotting cascade
Clot forms and acutely obstructs the artery
Sudden reduction in blood flow to myocardium
What is the pathogenesis of MI?
When the ischaemia from a clot concluding a coronary artery is not reversed within 10 minutes, myocardial necrosis results (MI)
Why does unstable angina require admission?
It is potentially pre-myocardial infarction
What are the diagnostic criteria for MI?
Clinical history suggestive of ACS
Evidence of cardiac myocyte death - increase in serum troponin I or T
Why do you do a CXR in ACS?
To excuse pulmonary oedema or aortic dissection
What are the ECG findings during an MI?
Immediate: hyper acute T waves
ST elevation
T wave inversion
Pathological Q waves
What leads does an anterior MI present in?
V1-4 (ST elevation)
What vessel is affected if there is ST elevation in leads V1-4?
Left anterior descending
What part of the myocardium is affected if there is ST elevation in leads V3 and 4?
Septal LV (LAD)
What vessel is affected when the lateral LV is infarcted?
Left circumflex
What leads would show a posterior MI?
V 7-9
What leads show an infarction in the right ventricle? What artery is occluded?
V1
RCA
How do you differentiate between NSTEMI and unstable angina?
Cardiac bio markers raised in MI but not in unstable angina
Ie troponin I/T and CK
What immediate medications are given for an NSTEMI?
Aspirin 300mg
Clopidogrel
LMWH
IV nitrates and opiates
What secondary prevention is given for NSTEMI?
Statin
Beta blocker
ACE inhibitor
Why is a STEMI more serious than an NSTEMI?
More likely to present with complications due to larger area of myocardium involved
What is the mortality of STEMI?
4.4% for patients reaching hospital
30% of patients die before reaching hospital
What is the immediate management of ACS?
Opiates (morphine 5mg + metoclopramide 10mg)
Nitrates
Aspirin 300mg
Oxygen via reservoir mask
What oxygen therapy is unsuitable for COPD patients and why?
Reservoir mask
Simple face mask
High FiCO2 which is bad for patients who already retain CO2
Define pulmonary hypertension
Mean systolic pressure in pulmonary artery >25mmHg at rest or >30mmHg during exercise
What is the most common cause of primary pulmonary hypertension?
Pulmonary embolism
What causes secondary pulmonary hypertension?
Gradual changes in pulmonary circulation as a result of chronic diseases of the lung or heart
Eg COPD or congestive cardiac failure
Define cor pulmonale
When chronic hypoxic lung disease causes pulmonary hypertension and right heart failure
What are the signs of cor pulmonale?
Central cyanosis Ankle oedema Raised JVP Atrial gallop rhythm Loud pulmonary second sound Tricuspid regurgitation
What does a loud P2 indicate?
High pressure in the pulmonary artery causing forceful closure of the pulmonary valve
Why may patients with cor pulmonale complain of chest pain?
Due to right ventricular hypertrophy which increased myocardial oxygen demand
Why may cor pulmonale patients experience syncope?
Inability to increase cardiac output during exercise
What are the signs of right ventricular hypertrophy?
Parasternal heave
What are the signs of right heart failure?
Additional S3 - mid-diastolic gallop
S4 heart sound - pre-systolic gallop caused by a poorly compliant hypertrophied RV
What are the clinical signs of tricuspid regurgitation?
Left para sternal pan systolic murmur
Visible S waves in JVP
Pulsatile hepatorenal you
What is the only non-invasive test that can measure pulmonary arterial pressure?
Echo
How do you take a history of syncope?
FAINTS: Frequency Associated symptoms Initiating events Nature of recovery Timing Speed of onset
Give a cause of cardiac syncope
LV outflow obstruction e.g. Aortic stenosis
What is neurocardiogenic syncope?
A stimulus causes an abnormal autonomic reflex leading to hypotension, tachycardia or both
= Vasovagal
Describe cardiac syncope
Sudden onset, rapid recovery
May be brought on by exercise
Associated with chest pain and palpitations
What is the underlying pathophysiology of bradycardia?
Conditions reducing the automaticity or causing infiltration or fibrosis of the conduction tissues
What is sinus node disease also called?
Sinus mode dysfunction
Sick sinus syndrome
What arrhythmias can result from sick sinus syndrome?
Sinus pauses Sinus tachy or Brady Atrial tachycardia Chronotropic incompetence Atrial fibrillation
What is chronotropic incompetence?
Heart rate is normal at rest, but fails to rise in response to exercise or physiological stress
What ECG factors indicate severity in complete heart block?
Slower ventricular escape rate
Broader QRS
Both mean the rhythm is more unstable
What is Virchow’s triad?
Abnormality of vessel wall
Abnormality of blood components
Abnormality of blood flow
What is the mechanism of action of warfarin?
Competitively antagonises reduction of oxidised Vit K
So vit K dependent clotting factors cannot be synthesised
How can warfarin be reversed and why?
Vitamin K
Because warfarin is a competitive inhibitor, so can be displaced
What are the vitamin K dependent clotting factors?
2, 7, 9 and 10
Why does warfarin have a slow onset of action?
It takes time for the clotting factors already in the system to be removed
Why does warfarin have to be stopped 3 days prior to any surgery?
It has a slow offset of action, as there has to be time for new clotting factors to be synthesised
How is warfarin metabolised?
CYP450 system
How is warfarin monitored?
INR
International normalised ratio - time taken for clotting compared to average for specific age and gender
What is the target INR for warfarin therapy in AF?
2.0 - 3.0
What is the target INR for warfarin therapy in mechanical prosthetic heart valves?
2.5 - 4.5
What are the side-effects of warfarin?
Haemorrhage: GI, epistaxis, intracranial, excess bruising
Pregnancy - teratogenic
How is warfarin reversed?
Vitamin K
Fast reversal: fresh frozen plasma (in emergency)
What is the mechanism of action of heparin?
Acts on anti-thrombin III to inhibit thrombin and factor Xa
How does unfractionated heparin work?
Binds to Anti-thrombin III
Inhibits thrombin AND factor Xa
How does low molecular weight heparin work?
Inhibits only factor Xa (no inhibition of thrombin)
Why is heparin never administered IM?
Would cause bleeding into the muscle
Why is heparin administered IV or subcutaneously?
Poor GI absorption
How is the dose and effect of heparin monitored?
APTT - activated partial thromboplastin time
Why are LMWHs used for prophylaxis of VTE?
They are as effective as unfractionated, but have a lower risk of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia
How is heparin used in treatment of VTE?
Initial management before warfarin to cover whilst warfarin loading is achieved
Why is heparin preferred to warfarin during surgery?
Heparin has a quicker offset of action, so can be stopped quickly if severe haemorrhage occurs
What are the side effects of heparin?
Haemorrhage eg intracranial, injection sites, GI, epistaxis
Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia
How is heparin reversed?
Protamine sulfate
Causes dissociation of the heparin-AT III complex and binds irreversibly to heparin
How does aspirin work?
It is a COX inhibitor and inhibits production of thromboxane A2 to prevent platelet aggregation
What is the function of thromboxane A2?
Released from activated platelets to promote further platelet aggregation/vasoconstriction
How does furosemide work in heart failure?
Reduces ECV to reduce oedema
Venodilatory effect to reduce after load on the heart
What is the mechanism of action of furosemide?
Inhibits NKCC2 channel in thick ascending limb of loop of henle
Why are thiazides used to prevent renal calculi?
They promote calcium reabsorption to limit calcium loss
Give an example of a potassium sparing diuretic
Amiloride
How does amiloride work?
Acts on ENaC in late DCT/CD
Prevents Na+ reabsorption
No effect on K+ reabsorption
How does Spironolactone work?
Inhibits action of aldosterone on mineralocorticoid receptors
Reduces expression of Na+/K+-ATPase and ENaC
What are the side effects of Spironolactone?
Hyperkalaemia
Gynaecomastia
What are the indications for Spironolactone?
Heart failure
Hypertension
Liver failure
Conn’s syndrome
What are the side effects of thiazides?
Gout
Erectile dysfunction
Which diuretics interact with digoxin to cause hypokalaemia?
Thiazides
Loop diuretics
Define diuretic resistance
Patient unable to meet their clinically required de congestive targets despite large doses of loop diuretics
What drugs are potentially nephrotoxic?
ACE inhibitors Amino glycosides eg gentamicin Penicillins Ciclosporin A Metformin NSAIDs
In a 40 year old Caucasian lady, what is the first step of anti-hypertensive therapy?
ACE inhibitor
What is step 2 of anti-hypertensive therapy?
ACE inhibitor + calcium channel blocker
Or
ACE inhibitor + thiazides
What is step 3 of anti-hypertensive therapy?
ACE inhibitor + calcium channel blocker + thiazide diuretic
In a 40 year old Afro Caribbean lady, what is the first anti-hypertensive agent you would use?
Calcium channel blocker
Or thiazide diuretic
What is the mechanism of action of losartan?
Angiotensin receptor blocker
Inhibits vasoconstriction and aldosterone stimulation
Give 2 examples of dihydropyridines. What is their mechanism of action?
Nifedipine
Amlodipine
L-type calcium channel blockers mainly acting on peripheral vascular smooth muscle
What are the side effects of dihydropyridines?
Sympathetic activation - tachycardia, palpitations, flushing, sweating, throbbing headache
Oedema
Gingival hyperplasia
What is the mechanism of action of ramipril?
ACE inhibitor, preventing formation of angiotensin II
What are the side effects of ramipril?
Dry cough
Angioedema
Renal failure
Hyperkalaemia
What is the mechanism of action of verapamil?
Calcium channel blocker
Class IV anti-arrhythmic
Peripheral vasodilation, decreased cardiac preload and myocardial contractile th
What are the side effects of verapamil?
Constipation
Risk of bradycardia
Can worsen heart failure due to decreased contractility
What is the mechanism of action of doxasozin?
Alpha receptor blocker
Reduces contractile effects of noradrenaline on vascular smooth muscle to reduce TPR
What are the side effects of doxasozin?
Postural hypotension Dizziness Headache Fatigue Oedema
How do calcium channel blockers affect the pacemaker potential?
Reduce calcium ion influx in upstroke of action potential
Blocking these channels means it takes longer to depolarise/reach peak
How do beta agonists affect the cardiac pacemaker potential?
Increase slope of funny current
How does adenosine affect the pacemaker potential?
Muscarinic agonist
Decreases slope of funny current to slow HR
How do class I anti-arrhythmic agents work?
Sodium channel blockers
Bind to Na+ channels and inhibit AP propagation in myocytes
Affect phase 0 of depolarisation
What are class II anti-arrhythmic agents?
Beta blockers
What are the effects of beta blockers on the heart?
Negative chronotropic and inotropic
What drug is used to treat WPW syndrome?
Flecainide
Give an example of Class Ib anti-arrhythmics and its mechanism of action
Lidocaine
Used for acute VT and VF
Affects fast-beating/ischaemic tissue, as it is fast-binding/offset
What are class III anti-arrhythmic agents?
Potassium channel blockers
How does amiodarone work?
Potassium channel blocker Increases refractory period Slows speed of AV conduction Increases threshold for AP firing Effective for most arrhythmias
What is sotalol?
Potassium channel blocker
What are class IV anti-arrhythmic agents?
Calcium channel blockers
Eg verapamil and diltiazem
How does adenosine work?
Binds to A1 receptors in AVnode
Activates K+ currents in AV and SA nodes to hyper polarise cardiac tissue and decrease heart rate
Causes transient temporary heart block
What is adenosine used to treat?
SVT
How does digoxin work?
Enhances vagus nerve activity
Slows AV conduction and heart rate
How does atropine work?
Selective muscarinic antagonist
Blocks bagel activity to speed AV conduction and heart rate
What are the potential complications of pneumonia?
Pleural effusion Empyema Lung abscess Respiratory failure Septicaemia Brain abscess Pericarditis Myocarditis Cholestatic jaundice
Define COPD
Fixed airflow obstruction
Minimal or no reversibility with bronchodilators
Slowly progressive and irreversible deterioration in lung function, causing worsening symptoms
What are the signs of COPD?
Increased respiratory rate Barrel chest Pursed lip breathing Quiet breath sounds and wheeze Signs of cor pulmonale and CO2 retention
Define mild COPD
FEV1 > 80% predicted
Define moderate COPD
FEV1 50-80% predicted
Define severe COPD
FEV1 30-49% predicted
Define very severe COPD
FEV1
What is stage 1 on the MRC dyspnoea scale?
Only short of breath with strenuous exercise
What is stage 3 on the MRC dyspnoea scale?
Walks slower than contemporaries or has to stop for breath on level ground
What is stage 4 on the MRC dyspnoea scale?
Stops after 100 m or a few minutes
What is stage 5 on the MRC dyspnoea scale?
Too breathless to leave the house or breathless when dressing
What is the BODE grading for COPD?
BMI
Obstruction (FEV1)
Dyspnoea
Exercise capacity (6min walk distance)
When are inhaled steroids indicated for COPD?
FEV1
How do steroids work in COPD?
Reduce frequency of exacerbations but don’t slow decline in lung function
Name a mucolytic agent used in COPD
Carbocisteine
How do you ensure you’ve got the correct diagnosis in COPD?
Use pulmonary function tests and chest x Ray to assess severity
Ensure there are no other causes for the symptoms
What is the outcome of exacerbations in COPD?
Many don’t regain the lung function they had before the exacerbation
Frequent exacerbations cause a more rapid decline in lung function
Define an acute exacerbation of COPD
Acute increase in symptoms beyond normal daily variation
What are the common bacterial causes of COPD exacerbation?
H.influenzae
S.pneumoniae
Moraxella catarrhalis
What are the common viral causes of COPD exacerbation?
Rhinovirus
Influenza
Coronavirus
Adenovirus
What are the differential diagnoses to COPD exacerbation?
PE
Pneumothorax
Pulmonary oedema
What are the symptoms of COPD exacerbation?
Increased cough/sputum production/purulence
Increased shortness of breath and wheeze
Chest tightness
Fluid retention
How do you assess severity of an acute exacerbation of COPD?
Resp rate Sats Air entry Tachycardia Peripheral perfusion and BP Conscious level Mental state
What initial investigations would you order in a suspected acute exacerbation of COPD?
Blood gas
CXR
ECG
Blood: WCC, CRP, UEs, FBC etc
What O2 therapy would you give in an acute exacerbation of COPD?
24-35% via a Venturi
Aiming for sats of 88-92%
What nebs would you give in an acute exacerbation of COPD?
Salbutamol 2.5 - 5 mg
Ipratropium 500micrograms
When do you use NIV in COPD exacerbation?
pH
When are antibiotics indicated in COPD exacerbation?
Purulent sputum
Pyrexia
Raised CRP
New changes on CXR
When are oral steroids indicated for COPD exacerbation?
All exacerbations requiring admission, or if they are significantly more breathless than usual
What steroids would you prescribe in COPD exacerbation?
Prednisolone 30mg per day for 1-2 weeks
What are the side effects of aminophylline?
Tachycardia
Nausea
What are the complications of COPD?
Polycythaemia Respiratory failure Lung carcinoma Cor pulmonale Pneumothorax Malnutrition Depression
What are the signs of COPD on chest X-Ray?
Hyperinflation Flat hemidiaphragms Large central pulmonary arteries Decreased peripheral vascular markings Bullae
What may the ECG show in COPD?
Right atrial and ventricular hypertrophy due to cor pulmonale
What are the indications for surgery in COPD?
Recurrent pneumothorax
Isolated bulbous disease
Lung volume reduction surgery
What conservative measures help in COPD?
Smoking cessation Exercise Treat poor nutrition/obesity Influenza and pneumococcal vaccination Pulmonary rehabilitation Palliative care
What is symbicort made up of?
Budesonide and formoterol
What are the majority of deaths in COPD patients due to?
Heart failure
What are the clinical signs of cor pulmonale?
Cyanosis Tachycardia Raised JVP RV heave Loud S2 Pansystolic murmur of tricuspid regurgitation Hepatomegaly Oedema
What are the symptoms of cor pulmonale?
Dyspnoea
Fatigue
Syncope
How does COPD cause cor pulmonale?
High pressure in pulmonary arterial system means RV has to work harder to push blood into pulmonary system
RV hypertrophied and eventually fails
Which other lung diseases cause cor pulmonale?
Bronchiectasis
Pulmonary fibrosis
Severe chronic asthma
Lung resection
What are the symptoms of pulmonary hypertension?
Shortness of breath Dizziness and fainting Leg swelling Fatigue Non-productive cough Angina
How does pulmonary venous hypertension present?
Orthopnoea
Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnoea
What are the clinical signs of pulmonary hypertension?
Split S2
Loud S2 due to pulmonary valve closure
Right ventricular (para sternal) heave
Signs of systemic congestion due to right heart failure
Describe the pathogenesis of pulmonary hypertension due to chronic lung disease
Hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (initially a protective response aiming to direct blood away from damaged areas of lung not containing O2)
Widespread and prolonged damage means vasoconstriction occurs across a large portion of the pulmonary vascular bed
What are the general clinical features of interstitial lung disease?
Shortness of breath on exertion Non-productive paroxysmal cough Abnormal breath sounds Abnormal CXR / HR CT Restrictive spirometry Low DLCO
What are the pathological features of interstitial lung disease?
Fibrosis and remodelling of the interstitium
Chronic inflammation
Hyperplasia of type II epithelial cells/pneumocytes
Why is gas transfer reduced in interstitial lung disease?
Scarring and thickening of tissue around alveoli makes it difficult for oxygen to diffuse into the blood
What are the categories of causes of interstitial lung disease?
Occupational
Environmental
Systemic
Drugs
What are the types of interstitial lung disease with no known cause?
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (=usual interstitial pneumonia)
COP - cryptogenic organising pneumonia
LIP - lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia
What are the general symptoms of interstitial lung disease?
Dry cough Exertional dyspnoea Malaise Weight loss Arthralgia
What are the classical clinical findings in interstitial lung disease?
Clubbing
Cyanosis
Reduced chest expansion
Fine inspiratory crepitations (like pulling Velcro)
May have features of pulmonary hypertension
What is the commonest form of interstitial lung disease?
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
What are the complications of IPF?
Respiratory failure
Increased risk of lung cancer
What is the management of IPF?
Oxygen Pulmonary rehabilitation Opiates Palliative care Clinical trials? Lung transplant?
What is the prognosis for IPF?
50% 5 years survival
What is extrinsic allergic alveolitis?
= hypersensitivity pneumonitis
Hypersensitivity reaction to allergens inhaled
What are the different types of extrinsic allergic alveolitis?
Acute
Chronic
What are the symptoms of acute extrinsic allergic alveolitis?
Fever Rigors Myalgia Dry cough Dyspnoea Inspiratory crackles
What is the management of acute EAA?
Remove allergen
Give 35-60% O2
Oral prednisolone 40mg/24hr
What are the features of chronic EAA?
Increased SOB especially on exertion
Weight loss
Type I respiratory failure
Cor pulmonale
What are the histological features of sarcoidosis?
Non-caseating granulomas
Define bronchiectasis
Abnormal dilation of the bronchi
What are the common pathogens in mild bronchiectasis?
H.influenzae
S.pneumoniae
M.catarrhalis
S.aureus
What organism is commonly involved in moderate bronchiectasis?
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
What is the most common cause of bronchiectasis?
Idiopathic
What proportion of cases of bronchiectasis are caused by airways inflammation?
25%
Eg COPD, ABPA, RA
Why do bacteria colonise the lungs in bronchiectasis?
Bronchial dilation and epithelial damage disrupts mucociliary clearance
Why do patients develop purulent phlegm in bronchiectasis?
Chronic bacterial infection leads to neutrophil if inflammatory response
Causes increased mucus production and purulent phlegm
Why do patients with severe bronchiectasis get airway obstruction?
Inflammation of bronchi also spreads to small airways
What are the classic clinical features of bronchiectasis?
Cough
Daily sputum production
What are the additional symptoms of bronchiectasis?
Minor haemoptysis Malodorous breath Malaise Fatigue Shortness of breath on exertion Wheeze MSK-type chest pain
What are the clinical signs of bronchiectasis?
Finger clubbing
Focal creps, usually bi basal
Signs of airway obstruction in severe disease
What does CT scanning show in bronchiectasis?
Bronchial dilatation - to a width greater than that of the accompanying vessel
Bronchial wall thickening
What further investigations (after CT diagnosis) are required in bronchiectasis?
Pulmonary function testing
Sputum culture
Specific tests for potential causes eg IgG levels
What are the management principles for bronchiectasis?
Identify and treat the cause
Improve QoL by minimising sputum production and reducing exacerbation frequency
Maintain/improve pulmonary function
How is pulmonary function maintained in bronchiectasis?
Minimise active chronic infection
Reduce frequency and severity of exacerbations
Regular bronchodilator use
How can sputum production and frequency of exacerbations be reduced in bronchiectasis?
Self-administered lung clearance techniques
Prolonged ABx course to effectively treat exacerbation
Oral/nebulised prophylactic ABx for severe disease
Long-term azithromycin
What are the effects of long-term azithromycin in bronchiectasis?
Anti-inflammatory effects
Very effective in reducing sputum production and exacerbation frequency
What percentage of patients die from their bronchiectasis?
15%
What is the incidence of cystic fibrosis?
1 in 2000-3000 newborns
What is the genetic defect in cystic fibrosis?
Autosomal recessive in CFTR gene
What does the CFTR gene code for?
Transmembrane chloride channel,found in respiratory epithelium, expiring glands and sweat ducts
What happens when the CFTR gene is not working properly?
Chloride ion flow across membranes is impaired
Means sodium and water don’t move out of the cell
Mucus is inadequately hydrated, forming thick sticky mucus
What are the clinical features of cystic fibrosis?
Chronic phlegm production and recurrent infective exacerbations
What characteristics of cystic fibrosis are different to non-CF bronchiectasis?
Usually starts in early childhood
Worse in lung apices
Almost always results in fatal respiratory failure due to severe airways obstruction
What are the signs of cystic fibrosis?
Clubbing Low BMI Extensive crepitations in both lungs Obvious signs of airways obstruction Poor respiratory function
What are the extra-pulmonary complications of cystic fibrosis?
Pancreatic insufficiency
Chronic sinusitis
Infertility
Abnormal LFTs
What is the diagnostic test for cystic fibrosis?
Measure sweat chloride concentration - increased in CF
What are the main principles for cystic fibrosis management?
Regular Physio supported by chest clearance devices
Frequent antibiotics for bronchial infections
Regular use of inhaled beta agonists
What prophylactic therapy is used in cystic fibrosis?
Flucloxacillin and azithromycin
What is the median age of death in cystic fibrosis?
Mid-40s
What is the medical management of anaphylaxis?
High-flow O2
0.5mg adrenaline IM - every 5mins until CVS stable
200mg hydrocortisone IV
10mg chlorpheniramine IV
Salbutamol and adrenaline nebs as required for bronchospasm and laryngeal oedema respectively
What are the features of anaphylaxis?
Pruritis Urticaria Angioedema Hoarseness Stridor Wheeze
What medications are given for an acute asthma attack?
5mg salbutamol nebs
40mg prednisolone PO
Ipratropium bromide 500ug neb if severe
IV aminophylline if life-threatening
How do you manage an exacerbation of COPD?
O2 via Venturi
Nebs: salbutamol and Ipratropium
Prednisolone 30mg stat and OD for 7 days
ABx if raised WCC/CRP or purulent sputum
Consider IV aminophylline
When is NIV indicated in exacerbation of COPD?
If type 2 respiratory failure and pH 7.25-7.35
Define massive haemoptysis
> 240ml in 24hrs
>100ml/day for consecutive days
How do you manage massive haemoptysis?
Lie patient on side of suspected lesion
Oral tranexamic acid for 5 days
Stop NSAIDs, aspirin and anticoagulants
Consider vit K
Name a long-acting anti muscarinic agent
Tiotropium
What are the ADRs of antimuscarinics?
Dry mouth
Constipation
Cough
Headache
Name 2 xanthines
Aminophylline
Theophylline
How do xanthines work?
Block phosphodiesterases to decrease cAMP breakdown and cause bronchodilation
Also have positive chronotropic and inotropic effects, and a diuretic action
What are the side effects of aminophylline?
Headache GI upset Reflux Palpitations Dizziness
What is the therapeutic window of theophylline?
10-20mg/L
What are the toxic effects of aminophylline?
Serious arrhythmias
Seizures
Nausea and vomiting
Hypotension
Give 3 examples of inhaled glucocorticoids
Beclomethasone
Budesonide
Fluticasone
What are the side effects of inhaled steroids?
Cough
Oral thrush
Unpleasant taste
Hoarse voice
Give some side effects of systemic steroid use
Hyperglycaemia Psychosis Insomnia Indigestion Mood swings Diabetes Osteoporosis Muscle wasting Skin thinning Cushingoid appearance
Give 2 examples of long-acting beta agonists
Formoterol
Salmeterol
What are the side effects of beta agonists?
Tremor Headache GI upset Palpitations Tachycardia Hypokalaemia
Give 2 examples of short-acting beta agonists
Salbutamol
Terbutaline
What questions do you need to ask about a cough?
Dry vs productive Triggers and relieving factors Associated with eating/dyspepsia Positional Nasal secretions Fever
What questions do you need to ask about shortness of breath?
Exercise tolerance Triggers/relieving factors Diurnal variation Orthopnoea PND
What are the presenting complaints for respiratory?
Shortness of breath Chest pain Wheeze Cough Sputum Haemoptysis
What social history do you need to include in a respiratory history?
Smoking Occupation Pets Recent foreign travel Immobility Activities of daily living Alcohol
Why can RBBB cause either LAD or RAD?
The LBB contains anterior and posterior fascicles which can both conduct action potentials
What do ventricular escape rhythms look like?
Broad QRS because the impulse has to travel further, ie not via the usual fast conducting system
What does a regular rhythm in AF mean?
There is an escape rhythm, due to complete heart block (none of the atrial depolarisations are being conducted through to the ventricles)
What causes ST elevation?
Acute MI
Pericarditis
What causes ST depression?
Ischaemia
Which is a better indicator of coronary artery disease: horizontal ST depression or down-sloping?
Down-sloping: 90% have CAD
Horizontal: 82% have CAD
What is the normal length of the QRS complex?
How do you calculate QTc?
QT(ms) / square root of RR (s)
What do delta waves signify?
There is an extra circuit conducting electrical signals from the atria to the ventricles
How can AF lead to sudden death?
Superconductor, so an extra circuit conducts signals from the atria to the ventricles
Eg WPW
What are torsades de pointes?
A form of polymorphic VT
The depolarisation is twisting on its electrical axis
What are the causes of a regular tachycardia with broad QRS complexes?
VT
SVT with aberrancy or BBB
WPW antidromic
What are the causes of an irregular tachycardia with broad QRS complexes?
VF
Polymorphic VT
Torsades
Pre-excited AF
What are the causes of an irregular tachycardia with narrow QRS complexes?
AF
How do you treat tachycardia?
Carotid sinus massage
Valsalva manoeuvre
What are the hallmarks of ventricular tachycardia?
- VA dissociation
- Capture beat
- Fusion beat
What are capture beats?
A narrower beat than the broad-complex VT that’s going on elsewhere
What are fusion beats?
Not as broad/narrow as others. Happen when VT is colliding with the sinus beat
What are the ECG features of Wolff-Parkinson White syndrome?
Delta waves
Short PR interval
What are the non-cardiac causes of bradycardia?
Sleep Athletic training Beta blockers Amiodarone Hypothyroidism Hypothermia Deranged potassium/calcium/magnesium/sodium OSA
What are the cardiac causes of bradycardia?
Sinus node disease (sick sinus syndrome)
Heart block
Atrial fibrillation
Chronotropic incompetence
How is Mobitz II treated?
Permanent pacemaker if symptomatic
What does complete heart block look like on ECG?
Regular p waves
Regular QRS
But no association between the two
What are the symptoms of bradycardia?
Palpitations Light headedness Dizziness Collapse Syncope
What is the management of bradycardia causing acute cardiac instability?
Transcutaneous pacing (pads)
Transvenous temporary pacing
IV drug infusion eg atropine
What is automaticity?
All cells in the heart are able to regularly produce an action potential
Some are more inclined to do so than others (eg SA node)
What does a narrow complex tachycardia indicate?
Supra ventricular tachycardia (SVT)
What is the most common form of SVT?
AVNRT - atrioventricular nodal re-entry tachycardia
What symptoms can tachycardia cause?
Palpitations Shortness of breath Fatigue Ischaemic chest pain Low BP
What are the vagal manoeuvres used to treat tachycardia?
Valsalva manoeuvre
Carotid sinus massage
What medication is used to treat tachycardia?
Beta blockers
Calcium channel blockers
What drugs are used to treat tachycardia in WPW?
Flecainide
Amiodarone
Why is ventricular tachycardia more malignant than SVT?
It can cause VF which can lead to cardiac arrest and death
What does VT look like on ECG?
Regular broad complex tachycardia
VA dissociation
Capture and fusion beats
What are the causes of torsades de pointes?
Long QT syndrome Hypokalaemia Hypomagnaesemia Amiodarone Erythromycin Methadone
How is VT classified?
Pulsed vs pulse less
Sustained (>30s)
Mono- or polymorphic (QRS appearance consistent or changing?)
What are the symptoms of VT?
Palpitations
Syncope
Symptoms of heart failure in sustained VT
What is AV dissociation?
Regular P waves and regular QRS complexes, but at different rates
When is emergency synchronised DCCV indicated in VT?
Any patient whose condition is compromised eg hypotension or ischaemia
What drugs are used to treat VT?
Amiodarone
Beta blockers
How do ICDs work?
Don’t reduce the frequency of ventricular arrhythmia, but restore sinus rhythm if arrhythmia occurs
What is the myocardium doing in ventricular fibrillation?
There is no coordinated electrical or mechanical activity, so there is no cardiac output
Why is VF so dangerous?
There is no cardiac output and it always results in cardiac arrest
What are the components of CHADS-VASc?
Coronary failure Hypertension Age > 75 (2 points) Diabetes Previous Stroke or TIA Vascular disease Age 65-74 Sex female
What is used to control rate in AF?
Beta blockers
Calcium channel blockers
Digoxin
Who is digoxin prescribed for and why?
Sedentary patients
Doesn’t allow the heart rate to rise physiologically
Why are the conditions for DCCV in AF strict?
Risk of inducing stroke
What drugs can be used to reduce the frequency of paroxysmal AF?
Beta blockers
Class Ic drugs eg flecainide
Class III drugs eg amiodarone
What is decubitus angina?
Angina precipitated by lying flat
Define angina
Central chest tightness or heaviness
Brought on by exertion and relieved by rest
What symptoms are associated with angina?
Shortness of breath
Nausea
Sweatiness
Fatigue
What is the medical management of angina?
Aspirin
Beta blockers
Nitrates
Long-acting calcium antagonists eg amlodipine 10mg OD
K+ channel activator if still not controlled eg nicorandil
What nitrate prophylaxis may be prescribed in angina?
Isosorbide mononitrate 20-40mg BD
How effective is aspirin in angina?
Decreases mortality by 34%
Define an acute MI
Increase then decrease in cardiac biomarkers plus either... A) symptoms of ischaemia B) ECG changes of new ischaemia C) development of pathological Q waves D) loss of myocardium on imaging
What is the initial management of ACS?
Airway Breathing Circulation IV access 12-lead ECG Give: Oxygen Nitrates Aspirin Morphine + anti-emetic
When does cardiac troponin peak during an MI?
24-48 hrs
What is the target level for cholesterol?
Total cholesterol
When is treatment indicated for hypercholesterolaemia?
High CVS risk (smoker, HTN, gender)
Not responsive to conservative measures
Familial hypercholesterolaemia
Coronary, carotid or peripheral artery disease
What is the 1st line lipid-lowering therapy?
Statins
How do statins work?
HMG-CoA reductive inhibitors - this enzyme is responsible for cholesterol synthesis
Why are statins taken at night?
Most cholesterol synthesis occurs overnight, so they have greater effect
What are the side effects of statins?
Indigestion Headache Diarrhoea Insomnia Liver injury Myalgia, myosotis, myopathy Rhabdomyolysis
What are the contraindications to statins?
Severe liver or renal disease
Myopathy
Pregnancy or breast-feeding
What are the second line lipid-lowering agents?
Fibrates
How do fibrates work?
Increase lipoprotein lipase activity by activating PPAR
Increases lipid metabolism and lowers LDL and triglycerides
What are the side effects of fibrates?
Indigestion
Myosotis
Rash
Anaemia
How does ezetimibe work?
Brush border lipase inhibitor
Inhibits uptake of dietary cholesterol from the gut at the brush border epithelium, so reducing plasma LDL levels
How does colestyramine work?
Bile acid sequestrant - combines with bile acids in intestines to cause them to be excreted in faeces
Increases oxidation of cholesterol to form bile acids, increasing the activity of HMG-CoA reductase to reduce circulating LDL
What are the side effects of colestyramine?
Itching
Diarrhoea
Abdominal pain
Constipation
How does heart failure present?
Shortness of breath Fatigue and weakness Nocturia Cough Epi gastric discomfort Anorexia
What are the causes of shortness of breath in heart failure?
Pulmonary oedema
Impaired skeletal muscle function
Depressed respiratory muscle function
Reduced lung function
What different types of dyspnoea can heart failure present with?
Exertional shortness of breath
Orthopnoea
Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnoea
Explain the process of orthopnoea in heart failure
Central blood volume increases when the patient is lying flat, which the failing heart can’t cope with, leading to pulmonary oedema
What is NYHA Class I?
Asymptomatic during normal activity
What is NYHA Class II?
Mild symptoms during normal activity
What is NYHA Class III?
Marked limitation to normal activity, comfortable only at rest
What is NYHA Class IV?
Symptoms at rest
Why may patients get a cough with pink, frothy sputum in heart failure?
Pulmonary oedema
Why may patients get a dry, nocturnal cough in heart failure?
Bronchial oedema/cardiac asthma
What does the pulse feel like in heart failure?
Rapid, weak and thready
What does palpation of the chest reveal in heart failure?
LV enlargement causing a downward and laterally displaced apex beat
Diffuse apex beat indicates severe LV dysfunction
What does the heart sound like in heart failure?
Gallop rhythm - 3rd heart sound and tachycardia
What valvular lesion can heart failure cause?
Mitral regurgitation (functional) Due to LV dysfunction
What are the signs of heart failure on chest X-Ray?
Alveolar oedema Kerry B lines Cardiomegaly Dilated prominent upper lobe vessels Pleural Effusion
What is the conservative management of heart failure?
Low level exercise Low salt diet Smoking cessation Education Vaccination
What are the main drugs used in heart failure?
Diuretics - furosemide
ACE inhibitors
Beta blockers
Spironolactone
What dose of furosemide should you start at in heart failure?
40mg
Titrate up as needed
Why are beta blockers used in heart failure?
Catecholamine levels are high in heart failure (sympathetic activation)
How can the patient help decide how effective diuretics are in heart failure?
Monitor their own weight and degree of breathlessness
How does weight help decide diuretic dose in heart failure?
Weight gain - increase dose
Weight loss - decrease dose
How do nitrates work in heat failure?
Veno- and arteriolar dilators so reduce load on the heart
How does digoxin work?
Cardiac glycoside
Inhibits sodium-potassium pump in sarcolemma cell membranes to reduce calcium transport out of the cell
Digoxin thus increases intracellular calcium and is positively inotropic
At AV node: increased calcium prolongs refractory period to decrease AV node conduction and is negative chronotropic
What are the signs of digoxin toxicity?
Bradycardia, AV block or sinus arrest
Nausea and vomiting
Xanthopsia
When are bi ventricular devices indicated for heart failure?
Class III or IV
Ejection fraction
What 4 processes can lead to pulmonary oedema?
Increased afterload (raised LA pressure)
Increased preload (too much fluid)
Decreased oncotic pressure
Leaky vessels
What is the most common cause of increased LA pressure?
LV diastolic failure
What are the causes of raised LA pressure?
LV diastolic or systolic failure Hypertension Aortic stenosis Mitral regurgitation Mitral stenosis Aortic regurgitation Atrial fibrillation VT Left atrial myxoma
How does malignant hypertension present?
One of…
A) pulmonary oedema
B) papilloedema
C) stroke
What are the causes of malignant hypertension?
Phaeochromocytoma
Conn’s syndrome
Cushing’s syndrome
Why are beta blockers useful in angina?
Slowing the heart rate makes diastole longer, giving more time for the coronary arteries to be perfused and hence reducing the ischaemia
How do IABPs work?
- Suddenly deflates at the beginning of systole to decrease the afterload and increase cardiac output
- Beginning of diastole: inflates and increases coronary perfusion
How do you treat acute pulmonary oedema?
O2 60-100% Furosemide 80mg IV Morphine 5-10mg IV Metoclopramide 10mg IV Nitrates: GTN or buccal CPAP
How does CPAP work in acute pulmonary oedema?
Increases pressure in alveoli to force water out
Works quickly and is safe
How do morphine and metoclopramide work in pulmonary oedema?
Anxiolytics - decrease the sympathetic drive
When should you NOT give nitrates?
Severe aortic stenosis - further decreases the blood pressure and can kill!
What is the typical presentation of acute pulmonary oedema?
Pale Increased resp rate Sat up Tachycardic Hypertensive Sats 95% Clammy, distressed and sweaty
Why is preload increased in heart failure?
Sodium and water retention leading to increased ECV
Describe the ‘vicious cycle’ of the physiological response to heart failure
Decreased cardiac output leads to activation of RAAS and the sympathetic nervous system
This causes sodium and water retention, and vasoconstriction, further increasing the work load of the heart causing it to fail even more
What are the causes of right heart failure?
Chronic lung disease
PE or pulmonary hypertension
Tricuspid or pulmonary valve disease
What are the signs of right heart failure?
Increased JVP Cardiomegaly Hepatic enlargement Ascites Dependent pitting oedema
What are the signs of left heart failure?
Displaced apex beat Gallop rhythm Mitral regurgitation features Basal lung crackles Pitting oedema
What is the leading cause of sudden cardiac death in young people?
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
What is the inheritance of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy?
Autosomal dominant
What are the poor prognostic factors for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy?
Younger than 14y or syncope at presentation
Family history of HCM or sudden cardiac death
What is dilated cardiomyopathy associated with?
Alcohol Hypertension Haemochromatosis Viral infection Autoimmune Peri or post-party's Thyrotoxicosis Congenital
What are the causes of pericarditis?
Viruses, bacteria, fungi
MI
Drugs eg penicillin, isoniazid
Uraemia, RA, SLE
How does pericarditis present?
Central chest pain worse on inspiration or lying flat
Relieved by sitting forward
Pericardial friction rub
What does the ECG look like in pericarditis?
Concave/saddle-shaped ST elevation
How do you treat pericarditis?
Analgesia and treat cause
Define pericardial effusion
Fluid accumulation in the pericardial sac
Define constrictive pericarditis
When the heart is encased in a rigid pericardium, preventing it from contracting properly
What is the purpose of pericardiocentesis?
Diagnostic or therapeutic
Define cardiac tamponade
Accumulation of pericardial fluid causing raised intrapericardial pressure leading to poor ventricular filling and a fall in cardiac output
What are the causes of cardiac tamponade?
Anything causing pericarditis Aortic dissection Haemodialysis Warfarin Cardiac catheterisation Post-cardiac biopsy
What is Beck’s triad?
Signs of cardiac tamponade:
- Falling BP
- Rising JVP
- Muffled heart sounds
What does echo show in cardiac tamponade?
Echo-free zone around the heart of > 2cm or > 1cm if acute