Oedema Flashcards
What happens in left ventricular failure?
pulmonary oedema - diffusion distance increases - gas exchange compromised
What is oedema?
accumulation of fluid in the interstitial space
What are the causes of oedema?
raised capillary pressure, reduced plasma osmotic pressure, lymphatic insufficiency, increased capillary permeability
What is a common symptom of left ventricular failure?
dyspnoea
What causes raised capillary pressure?
raised venous pressure and arteriolar dilatation
What causes reduced plasma osmotic pressure?
reduced plasma protein concentration - malnutrition, protein malabsorption, excessive renal excretion of protein or hepatic failure
What would be found on examination of a patient with left ventricular failure?
crepitations in auscultation of lung bases
What causes increased capillary permeability?
inflammation - histamine increases leakage of protein
What would a CXR of someone with left ventricular failure show?
haziness in perihilar region
What is a sign of right ventricular failure?
peripheral, ankle and sacral pitting oedema
