As a medical professional with expertise in cardiology, I can explain the term "P Pulmonale."
"P Pulmonale" refers to a specific finding on an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). The
P wave represents the electrical activity of the atria during a heartbeat. When the
P wave is unusually tall and narrow, it is described as
P Pulmonale. This change is often associated with conditions that cause an increase in pressure within the pulmonary circulation, which is known as
pulmonary hypertension. The term "cor pulmonale" is a historical term that was used to describe right-sided heart failure due to chronic lung disease, which can lead to pulmonary hypertension.
The presence of
P Pulmonale on an ECG can be an indicator of an underlying issue with the heart's electrical conduction system or a sign of strain on the right side of the heart, often due to lung disease. It is important for healthcare providers to consider the broader clinical context when interpreting this finding, as it may not always be indicative of a serious condition.
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