Aortic regurgitation

Background

Causes

Clinical Features

  • Pulmonary edema
  • Wide pulse pressure
  • Dyspnea
  • Hypotension (may progress to cardiogenic shock)
  • Decrescendo diastolic murmur heard immediately after S2

Differential Diagnosis

Valvular Emergencies

Evaluation

Consider the following tests

  • CXR may be helpful
    • May see pulmonary edema with out cardiac enlargement
    • Left ventricular hypertrophy and dilated aorta
  • Transthoracic echo will provide a more definitive diagnosis

Management

  • Immediate surgical intervention
  • Reduce afterload
  • Diuretics and nitrates do not work
  • Do not use β-blockers (block compensatory tachycardia)

Disposition

See Also

References

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