A prospective study on etiology and clinical profile of chronic Cor pulmonale

Background: Cor pulmonale accounts for approximately 6% to 7% of all adult heart disease cases in the United States and is involved in 10% to 30% of hospital admissions for congestive heart failure nationwide.
Materials and Methods: This prospective study was conducted at Al-Ameen Medical College and Hospital in Vijayapura, adhering to specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The sample included 73 cases, with detailed medical histories and symptom analyses collected from each participant. A thorough clinical examination was also performed.
Results: Among the 73 patients, 25 (34.3%) were aged 40 to 50 years, while another 25 (34.3%) were over 60 years. The majority were male (80.8%), and 50 patients (68.5%) had a history of smoking. All participants presented with symptoms of breathlessness, cough, and swelling of the feet. Physical examinations showed tachypnea, crepitations, and rhonchi in all individuals. Chronic bronchitis and emphysema were identified as the leading causes of chronic cor pulmonale in 44 patients (60.2%).
Conclusion: This study found that chronic bronchitis and emphysema were common causes of chronic cor pulmonale, primarily affecting middle-aged and older individuals, with males affected more than females and smoking identified as a major contributing factor. Common symptoms included breathlessness, cough, and lower extremity swelling. Physical examinations frequently revealed tachypnea, crepitations, rhonchi, and notable signs such as epigastric pulsations, loud P2, pansystolic murmur of tricuspid regurgitation, and parasternal heave. Chronic cor pulmonale has a substantial impact on both pulmonary and cardiac function; 53.7% of patients are at risk of readmission within one year of discharge. The condition is generally associated with a poor prognosis. This highlights the importance of early detection of signs and symptoms to enhance management outcomes.