Understanding the pathogenesis of heart failure

Abstract

Heart failure is a complex clinical syndrome. Jamshid Easa, Jacob Chappell and David Warriner explain the pathogenesis behind the most common form of this condition Heart failure a complex clinical syndrome due to impairment of ventricular filling or contraction, resulting in a constellation of physical symptoms and signs, primarily due to salt and water retention. In this clinically focused review of the pathophysiology, we will summarise the main consequences of the most common type, left ventricular failure; knowledge of which is essential for those working in general practice due to the high prevalence of heart failure in the community and to aid understanding of the various pharmacotherapies that work to act on the pathological mechanisms.