What are the diagnostic criteria for Heart Failure with preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF)?

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Differential Diagnosis for HFpEF

  • Single Most Likely Diagnosis
    • Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF): This is the most likely diagnosis given the context of the question, as HFpEF is a common condition where the heart's ejection fraction is normal, but the heart's ability to relax and fill during diastole is impaired, leading to symptoms of heart failure.
  • Other Likely Diagnoses
    • Diastolic Dysfunction: Often considered synonymous with HFpEF, diastolic dysfunction refers to the heart's inability to relax and fill properly, which can lead to elevated filling pressures and symptoms of heart failure.
    • Hypertensive Heart Disease: Long-standing hypertension can lead to left ventricular hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction, making it a likely diagnosis in patients with HFpEF symptoms.
    • Coronary Artery Disease: Although CAD typically presents with reduced ejection fraction, it can also cause diastolic dysfunction and HFpEF, especially in patients with extensive coronary disease.
  • Do Not Miss Diagnoses
    • Cardiac Amyloidosis: A rare condition characterized by the deposition of amyloid proteins in the heart, leading to restrictive cardiomyopathy and HFpEF symptoms. Missing this diagnosis can be fatal due to its progressive nature and limited treatment options.
    • Constrictive Pericarditis: A condition where the pericardium becomes scarred and contracted, restricting the heart's ability to fill and causing HFpEF symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term complications.
    • Cardiac Sarcoidosis: An inflammatory condition that can cause granulomatous infiltration of the heart, leading to HFpEF symptoms. Missing this diagnosis can result in delayed treatment and poor outcomes.
  • Rare Diagnoses
    • Fabry Disease: A genetic disorder that can cause left ventricular hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction, leading to HFpEF symptoms.
    • Friedreich's Ataxia: A rare genetic disorder that can cause hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and diastolic dysfunction, leading to HFpEF symptoms.
    • Danon Disease: A rare genetic disorder that can cause hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and diastolic dysfunction, leading to HFpEF symptoms.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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