Fast Five Quiz: Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Comorbidities and Complications

Figure 1. Illustration, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Some physical examination findings that may be suggestive of the presence of pulmonary hypertension include a loud P2 component of the second heart sound, a fixed split S2, a holosystolic tricuspid regurgitation murmur, and pedal edema. Additionally, when right ventricular hypertrophy ensues, a right ventricular heave may be palpated at the lower left sternal border, and increased right atrial pressure may cause elevation of the jugular venous pressure.

Pulmonary hypertension is a common comorbidity in patients with IPF and may be seen in as many as 40% of patients who are evaluated for or listed for lung transplantation.

A study found that pulmonary hypertension in IPF patients is best predicted by gas exchange efficiency during exercise and peak oxygen uptake. In addition to invasively measured pulmonary arterial pressure, oxygen uptake at peak exercise capacity is predictive of survival.

Pulmonary hypertension is associated with decreased survival in patients with IPF. Depending on its severity, pulmonary hypertension may reduce life expectancy in patients with IPF to less than 1 year.

Learn more about comorbidities and complications in patients with IPF.

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Cite this: Ani Kapoor. Fast Five Quiz: Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Comorbidities and Complications - Medscape - Jul 13, 2020.