Missed Cardio Cards Flashcards
(29 cards)
What are the hallmark ECG findings in pericarditis?
Diffuse ST elevation and PR depression across multiple leads.
What is the first-line treatment for viral or idiopathic pericarditis?
NSAIDs plus colchicine.
What are clinical signs of cardiac tamponade?
Hypotension, JVD, muffled heart sounds (Beck’s triad).
What is pulsus paradoxus and its diagnostic significance?
A drop in systolic BP >10 mmHg on inspiration; seen in tamponade.
What is the first-line treatment for stable angina?
Beta-blockers.
What is the mechanism of ischemia in stable angina?
Fixed atherosclerotic coronary artery narrowing.
When should you consider coronary angiography in stable angina?
Persistent symptoms despite medical therapy or high-risk stress test findings.
Which murmur is associated with aortic stenosis?
Harsh crescendo-decrescendo systolic murmur at right upper sternal border, radiating to carotids.
What is the treatment for severe symptomatic aortic stenosis?
Aortic valve replacement.
What are key ECG findings in atrial fibrillation?
Irregularly irregular rhythm with no distinct P waves.
What are the rate control agents for atrial fibrillation?
Beta-blockers, non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, or digoxin.
What is the most common cause of syncope in young healthy individuals?
Vasovagal (neurocardiogenic) syncope.
What test is used to evaluate unexplained syncope with suspected arrhythmia?
Holter monitor or event recorder.
What is the classic presentation of peripheral arterial disease?
Claudication relieved by rest, diminished peripheral pulses.
What is the ankle-brachial index (ABI) threshold for diagnosing PAD?
ABI < 0.90 indicates PAD.
What are the classic ECG findings in acute pericarditis?
Diffuse ST elevations and PR depressions, most prominent in limb leads; no reciprocal changes.
What are the four diagnostic criteria for acute pericarditis?
(1) Chest pain, (2) Pericardial friction rub, (3) ECG changes, (4) Pericardial effusion.
What is the first-line treatment for idiopathic or viral pericarditis?
NSAIDs + colchicine; steroids only if refractory or contraindicated.
What echocardiographic finding suggests tamponade physiology?
Diastolic collapse of the right atrium or right ventricle.
What physical exam triad is associated with cardiac tamponade?
Beck’s triad: hypotension, jugular venous distension, muffled heart sounds.
What is pulsus paradoxus and when is it seen?
A drop in systolic BP >10 mmHg during inspiration; seen in tamponade and severe asthma/COPD.
What is the immediate treatment for cardiac tamponade?
Emergent pericardiocentesis.
What is the most common cause of ischemic heart disease?
Atherosclerosis of coronary arteries.
What is the role of aspirin in ischemic heart disease?
Antiplatelet therapy to reduce risk of MI and stroke; used in both primary and secondary prevention.
