Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy is characterised by left ventricular outflow tract obstruction, myocardial hypertrophy, and diastolic dysfunction. It is commonly caused by genetic mutations in sarcomere proteins. There is a hypertrophied interventricular septum, which blocks blood from flowing through the aortic…

Cardiomyopathies are disease processes that affect the myocardium – the contractile portion of the heart. They are characterized by impaired filling and contractility of the heart, which leads to increased pulmonary hydrostatic pressure and congestive heart failure symptoms. There may…

Overview Infective endocarditis (IE) involves the inflammation of the inner lining of the heart as well as the valves. It shows a predilection for males (2:1) and preferentially affects individuals older than 65 years. This is thought to be due…

Acute pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardial sac for a period of less than 4 – 6 weeks. It is the most common pericardial disease. It peaks between 40 and 50 years of age. Causes of pericarditis Category Causes Infection…

Aortic stenosis is the narrowing of the aortic orifice due to atherosclerosis, calcification, or fibrosis. It leads to left ventricular outflow tract obstruction, which can progress to left ventricular failure. It peaks at 70+ years, and affects men and women…

Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is a chronic, systemic, immune-mediated condition that develops as a serious complication of rheumatic fever (RF), often following recurrent episodes of acute illness. It is the most significant consequence of acute rheumatic…