Cor pulmonale

Cor pulmonale is defined as right ventricular hypertrophy and dilation secondary to lung disease; it should be considered in a patient with COPD who has any of the following:

• peripheral oedema
• raised jugular venous pressure
• a systolic parasternal heave
• a loud pulmonary secondary heart sound.

Refer patients with suspected cor pulmonale to a respiratory physician for assessment and management. Long-term oxygen therapy may be required. Oedema associated with cor pulmonale can usually be controlled with diuretic therapy.