Alterations in Perfusion: Thrombocytopenia and Heart Failure

These flashcards cover key concepts related to alterations in perfusion, focusing on thrombocytopenia and heart failure, as discussed in the lecture notes.

Thrombocytopenia

A condition characterized by a reduction in the number of platelets in the blood, leading to increased risk of bleeding.

Petechiae

Small red or purple spots on the body, caused by a minor hemorrhage (broken capillary blood vessels).

Purpura

A larger bruise resulting from the accumulation of many petechiae.

Ecchymosis

A discoloration of the skin resulting from bleeding underneath, typically larger than petechiae.

Immune thrombocytopenia purpura (ITP)

The most common acquired thrombocytopenia characterized by the production of antibodies against platelets.

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP)

An uncommon syndrome characterized by hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, neurological abnormalities, fever, and renal abnormalities.

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT)

A life-threatening condition in which the body forms antibodies against heparin, leading to a decrease in platelet counts.

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS)

A term used to describe a range of conditions associated with sudden, reduced blood flow to the heart.

Stable angina

Chest pain that occurs when the heart muscle doesn't get enough blood due to narrowing of the arteries during exertion.

Unstable angina

Chest pain that occurs at rest or with minimal exertion, signaling a worsening of coronary artery disease.

ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI)

A type of heart attack that occurs when a coronary artery is completely blocked, leading to significant heart muscle damage.

Non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI)

A type of heart attack characterized by less severe symptoms and partial blockage of a coronary artery.

Heart failure

A condition in which the heart is unable to pump sufficient blood to meet the body's needs.

Ejection fraction (EF)

The percentage of blood that is pumped out of the heart each time it beats; a key measure of heart function.

Neurohormonal response

The body's hormonal response that occurs when cardiac output falls, leading to various compensatory mechanisms.

Compensatory mechanisms

Physiological processes that help maintain blood flow and pressure despite failing cardiac function.

Diastolic dysfunction

Impaired filling of the heart during the relaxation phase, leading to heart failure symptoms.

Systolic dysfunction

Inability of the heart to contract effectively, resulting in a reduced ejection fraction and heart failure.