Enlarged cardiac Silhouette is a medical condition in which the heart appears larger than normal on an x-ray or other imaging scan. It is often caused by an underlying problem with the heart. Some of the most common causes include cardiomyopathy, congestive heart failure, and aortic valve stenosis.
Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle that can cause an enlarged cardiac Silhouette. It can be caused by genetic factors, certain infections, alcohol abuse, or exposure to certain toxins.
It can be further broken down into several different types, including dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). DCM occurs when the heart muscle becomes weak and stretched out, while HCM occurs when the walls of the ventricles become thickened. Both conditions can lead to an enlarged cardiac Silhouette on imaging scans.
Congestive Heart Failure
Congestive heart failure (CHF) is another common cause of an enlarged cardiac Silhouette. CHF occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.
As CHF progresses, fluid begins to build up in different parts of the body, including the lungs and abdomen. This fluid build-up causes pressure on the walls of the ventricles and eventually results in them becoming stretched out and enlarged.
Aortic Valve Stenosis
Aortic valve stenosis is another cause of an enlarged cardiac Silhouette. This condition occurs when there is a narrowing of one or more of the valves that regulate blood flow from your left ventricle into your aorta.
When this happens, it causes increased blood pressure in your left ventricle which leads to it becoming stretched out and enlarged.
Conclusion
Enlarged cardiac Silhouette can be caused by various conditions such as cardiomyopathy, congestive heart failure, and aortic valve stenosis. It is important for anyone exhibiting symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath to seek medical attention right away as these could be signs of an underlying condition that requires treatment.