echo findings in pulmonary hypertension

Echocardiographic findings in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) commonly encompass right ventricular enlargement, right atrial enlargement, tricuspid regurgitation, and pulmonary artery dilation. These alterations indicate the effects of increased pulmonary artery pressure on cardiac structure and function.

Primarily, right ventricular enlargement is one of the most frequent echocardiographic signs of PAH. With elevated pulmonary artery pressure, the right ventricle must exert more effort to pump blood into the lungs, resulting in right ventricular wall thickening and chamber dilatation. Additionally, right atrial enlargement is a common finding, as the dilated right ventricle can stretch and enlarge the right atrium. Furthermore, the tricuspid valve may fail to close completely due to increased right ventricular pressure, leading to tricuspid regurgitation. Lastly, pulmonary artery dilation directly reflects the elevated pulmonary artery pressure; persistently high pressures can cause the main pulmonary artery and its branches to dilate.

For patients suspected of PAH, prompt echocardiographic examination is crucial. Echocardiography allows for the assessment of changes in cardiac structure and function, aiding physicians in devising appropriate treatment strategies. Concurrently, patients should adhere to their physicians' recommendations for regular follow-ups to facilitate timely adjustments to treatment plans and control disease progression.