Disorders of Cardiac Function

This set of flashcards covers key terms and definitions related to disorders of cardiac function, including various cardiac diseases, their manifestations, and diagnostic criteria.

Acute pericarditis

Inflammation of the pericardium, causing chest pain, fever, and pericardial friction rub.

Chronic ischemic heart disease

A condition where blood flow to coronary arteries is limited, not meeting metabolic demands.

Unstable angina

Myocardial ischemia that does not cause enough damage to release serum biomarkers.

ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI)

Ischemia causing death of myocardial tissue through full thickness of heart wall.

Myocarditis

Inflammation of the myocardium often caused by infection, a leading cause of heart transplants.

Cardiomyopathy

Diseases affecting the mechanical or electrical function of the heart, resulting in hypertrophy or dilation.

Infective endocarditis

Infection of the inner heart surface, particularly the heart valves, leading to vegetative growth and tissue destruction.

Rheumatic heart disease

Immune-mediated damage to heart valves and tissues following a group A strep infection.

Mitral valve stenosis

Stiff mitral valve that fails to open completely, causing blood backup and reduced forward flow.

Aortic regurgitation

Condition where the aortic valve fails to close completely, leading to blood backing up and left ventricular failure.