Part I: Cutaneous manifestations of cardiovascular disease

Area of Science:

• Cardiology and Dermatology
• Medical Education Series

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are increasing in incidence and prevalence globally.
• Cutaneous symptoms can be early indicators of underlying cardiovascular conditions.
• Dermatologists are uniquely positioned to recognize these skin manifestations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the epidemiology and pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases.
• To explore the association between cardiovascular diseases and cutaneous symptoms.
• To outline the diagnosis and evaluation of skin features related to specific cardiovascular syndromes.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on cardiovascular diseases and their dermatologic manifestations.
• Discussion of key cardiovascular syndromes with associated cutaneous findings.
• Emphasis on the diagnostic and evaluative role of dermatologists.

Main Results:

• Detailed review of cardiovascular conditions including infective endocarditis, acute rheumatic fever, Kawasaki disease, cholesterol embolization syndrome, lipid disorders, cardiac amyloidosis, and cardiac myxomas.
• Established link between specific cardiovascular pathologies and observable skin changes.
• Highlighted the importance of dermatological assessment in the context of cardiovascular health.

Conclusions:

• Dermatologists play a vital role in the early detection of cardiovascular diseases through skin examination.
• Timely recognition of cutaneous manifestations facilitates appropriate patient referral and management.
• This review serves as a foundational guide for clinicians managing patients with potential cardiovascular-cutaneous links.