Study Notes on Heart Structure and Disease (copy)

What is the function of the chordae tendineae in the heart?

Prevents atrial prolapse for the valves.

What connects to the chordae tendineae and helps keep valves closed during ventricular contraction?

Papillary muscles.

Where does blood enter the heart?

Right atrium.

What is a significant symptom of potential cardiogenic issues in animals?

Presence of coughing.

What does auscultation in a physical examination of the cardiovascular system involve?

Listening to heart sounds and noting any murmurs.

What is left-sided heart failure characterized by?

Fluid accumulation in the lungs (pulmonary congestion).

What is defined as a condition where there is insufficient blood flow for adequate oxygenation of tissues?

Heart failure.

What type of heart failure involves fluid accumulation in the abdomen?

Right-sided heart failure.

What is anemia in the context of circulatory issues?

Decreased red blood cells or hemoglobin impacting oxygen delivery.

What defines dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)?

Dilation of all heart chambers.

What group of animals is most commonly affected by dilated cardiomyopathy?

Large breed dogs, particularly older male dogs.

What dietary factor has significant findings linked to dilated cardiomyopathy?

Grain-free diets.

What condition is characterized by increased muscle mass of the left ventricle?

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM).

What is a common presentation of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy?

More common in cats than dogs.

What potential risk is associated with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy?

Sudden death at any age.

What is feline dilated cardiomyopathy (FDCM) often secondary to?

Taurine deficiency.

What is the gold standard for diagnosing feline dilated cardiomyopathy?

Echocardiogram.

What precaution should be taken when handling dyspneic cats?

Special care should be taken to prevent exacerbation of their condition.

What are the four main valves of the heart?

Tricuspid valve, pulmonary valve, mitral (bicuspid) valve, and aortic valve.

After entering the right atrium, what is the next chamber blood flows into?

Right ventricle.

What causes the 'lub' sound (S1) in heart auscultation?

Closure of the atrioventricular (mitral and tricuspid) valves.

What causes the 'dub' sound (S2) in heart auscultation?

Closure of the semilunar (aortic and pulmonary) valves.

What is the most muscular chamber of the heart, responsible for pumping oxygenated blood to the body?

Left ventricle.