Eisenmenger's syndrome: current management

Prog Cardiovasc Dis. 2002 Sep-Oct;45(2):129-38. doi: 10.1053/pcad.2002.127492.

Abstract

Eisenmenger's syndrome describes the elevation of pulmonary arterial pressure to the systemic level caused by increased pulmonary vascular resistance with reversal or bi-directional shunting through a large intracardiac or extracardiac congenital heart defect. This article reviews the natural history and pathophysiology of Eisenmenger's syndrome untreated and medical and surgical treatment options presently available. Although there is no cure for this condition at present, recent advances in management have improved the quality of life for many patients with Eisenmenger's syndrome.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antihypertensive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Eisenmenger Complex / diagnosis
  • Eisenmenger Complex / therapy*
  • Epoprostenol / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Hypertension, Pulmonary / physiopathology
  • Pulmonary Artery / pathology
  • Vascular Resistance / physiology

Substances

  • Antihypertensive Agents
  • Epoprostenol