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Cyclic changes in pulmonary wedge v waves in dilated cardiomyopathy
1Division of Cardiology, Hospital of Bellvitge, University of Barcelona, Spain.
European Heart Journal
|July 1, 1993
Summary
Cyclic prominent v waves in pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, indicating mitral regurgitation, can occur in dilated cardiomyopathy. These cyclic changes resolved with clinical improvement and enhanced left ventricular function.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiovascular Physiology
Background:
- Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a complex cardiac condition characterized by ventricular dilation and impaired systolic function.
- Cardiac catheterization is a key diagnostic tool for assessing hemodynamic status and myocardial function in DCM.
Observation:
- Spontaneous, prominent v waves were observed in pulmonary capillary wedge pressure during cardiac catheterization in a patient with DCM.
- These waves correlated with decreased left ventricular systolic pressure and moderate to severe mitral regurgitation.
Findings:
- Follow-up cardiac catheterization after 9 months showed resolution of cyclic pressure swings and improvement in mitral regurgitation.
- Left ventricular ejection fraction improved from 22% to 37%, with histological evidence of reduced myocardial hypertrophy.
Implications:
- Cyclic v waves in pulmonary capillary wedge pressure may serve as an indicator of dynamic mitral regurgitation in DCM.
- Resolution of these waves suggests improved left ventricular contractility and functional status in DCM patients.
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