Cardiovascular Pathology

Question 1

When is IE suspected ?

Answer 1

The patient has fevers and a new murmur
-thus it’s infective endocarditis until proven otherwise

Question 2

How can differentials for cardiac tamponade be thought of ?

Answer 2

2 T’s - Trauma - Tumour
2 I’s - Infection (pericarditis) - Iatrogenic (surgery)

Pericarditis can cause it through fluid

Question 3

How is cardiac tamponade seen in ECG ?

Answer 3

It wouldn’t… the conduction is absolutely fine
-A normal ECG with no cardiac output or pulse is called PEA (pulseless electrical activity)
-This is known as a non-shockable rhythm and almost always results in death