A 32-year-old woman arrives at the emergency department complaining of lightheadedness and shortness of breath that began while shopping at a supermarket. She had increasing shortness of breath over the last six months and had to modify her daily activities. The patient has no other medical issues and does not smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. There is no history of heart disease, stroke, or blood clots in the family. Her body mass index (BMI) is 25 kg/m². Following an initial evaluation, the patient reports that she feels "fine," refuses further evaluation, and insists on being discharged. She passes away a month later. Her heart was autopsied with the following appearance (RV, right ventricle; LV, left ventricle): Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: In young and otherwise healthy patients who have fatigue, progressive dyspnea, atypical chest pain, or unexplained syncope, pulmonary hypertension should be suspected. Long-term pulmonary hypertension causes right ventricle hypertrophy and/or dilation (cor pulmonale).

A 32-Year-Old Woman Arrives at the Emergency Department Complaining of Lightheadedness