Cardiovascular System Exam Related

Review Cardiovascular System Exam related questions and content

What is a condition where the right side of the heart fails due to increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries, often caused by chronic lung disease?

  • A. Cor pulmonale
  • B. Heart failure
  • C. Pulmonary embolism
  • D. Myocarditis
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cor pulmonale. Cor pulmonale is right-sided heart failure due to increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries, typically caused by chronic lung disease. This leads to the right side of the heart working harder to pump blood through the lungs, resulting in eventual failure. Pulmonary embolism (C) is a sudden blockage in the pulmonary artery, not a chronic condition. Heart failure (B) is a general term for when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, not specific to the right side. Myocarditis (D) is inflammation of the heart muscle, not directly related to pulmonary hypertension.