- Pulmonic regurgitation
Pulmonic regurgitation, also known as pulmonary regurgitation, is the backward flow of blood from the
pulmonary artery , through thepulmonary valve , and into theright ventricle of theheart duringdiastole . While a small amount of pulmonic regurgitation may occur in healthy individuals, it is usually detectable only by anechocardiogram and is harmless. More pronounced regurgitation that is noticed through a routinephysical examination is amedical sign of disease and warrants further investigation.igns and symptoms
Mild cases usually do not cause any symptoms. Because pulmonic regurgitation is the result of other factors in the body, any noticeable symptoms are ultimately caused by an underlying medical condition rather than the regurgitation itself. However, more severe regurgitation may contribute to
right ventricular hypertrophy , and in later stages, right heart failure.Causes
Pulmonary hypertension is the most common cause of excessive pulmonic regurgitation. Other possible causes includetetralogy of Fallot ,infective endocarditis , and congenital absence of the pulmonary valve.Treatment
Asymptomatic cases do not require treatment.
Pulmonic regurgitation is generally treated by addressing the underlying condition. In certain cases, the pulmonary valve may be surgically replaced.
References
*"Lange 2008 Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment, 47th edition" pp. 298-299 ISBN 978-8-07-149430-4
*Xiushui, R., Saavedra, P., Cannistra, L. "Pulmonic Regurgitation", eMedicine, http://www.emedicine.com/med/topic1964.htm
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