Syndromes of acute left ventricular failure

The syndrome of acute left ventricular failure, manifesting as pulmonary edema and/or cardiogenic shock, occurs in many different clinical settings, has many different causes, and variable treatment strategies. Most commonly it is seen as a complication of acute myocardial infarction where loss of myocardial tissue results in ineffective systolic performance of the left ventricle. Urgent percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty may have a significant impact on outcome in this setting. Other complicating events following myocardial infarction may also precipitate left ventricular failure including papillary muscle dysfunction and ventricular septal defect. The syndrome of acute left ventricular failure is also commonly seen in patients with chronic congestive cardiac failure whereby myocardial infarction, arrhythmia and even minor increases in salt intake can precipitate acute decompensation. Other conditions such as fulminant myocarditis, bacterial endocarditis and disease processes characterized by diastolic dysfunction can all cause acute left ventricular failure. Moreover, cardiac function may be depressed in septic shock by the presence of cardiodepressant factors. In summary, acute left ventricular failure is a syndrome with a diverse etiology. Specific diagnosis of the particular cause is crucial to appropriate management.