Clinical and 2d Echocardiography Profile in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction

Abstract

Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF) is a common subtype of heart failure marked by typical symptoms of heart failure despite a normal left ventricular ejection fraction. This study was conducted to evaluate the clinical profile and 2D echocardiographic findings in patients diagnosed with HFpEF at a tertiary care hospital over a period of 18 months. It was designed as a cross-sectional descriptive study in the Department of General Medicine at Adichunchanagiri Hospital and Research Centre. The study included 100 patients who presented with clinical features of heart failure and had a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) greater than 50%. Data were gathered on the demographic characteristics, clinical history, laboratory investigations, and echocardiographic parameters. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, and chi-square tests were used to analyze the categorical variables. The findings revealed that the majority of patients were in the 30 to 49-year age group, with a male predominance of 57%. The most common presenting symptoms included dyspnea in 97% of patients, paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea in 55%, and lower limb swelling in 40%. On echocardiographic evaluation, 54% of patients showed Grade II diastolic dysfunction, while 42% had abnormalities in the left atrial volume index (LAVI). Additionally, elevated NT-Pro BNP levels were observed, further supporting the diagnosis of HFpEF. The study highlights that HFpEF is frequently associated with both significant clinical symptoms and echocardiographic abnormalities, underlining the importance of timely diagnosis and appropriate management strategies. The findings suggest that the incorporating advanced imaging modalities and focusing on early risk factor modification can contribute to improved outcomes in patients with HFpEF.