Introduction on Pulmonary Oedema—Therapeutic Targets
Acute heart failure (AHF) is a heterogeneous clinical syndrome including diverse phenotypes sharing similar presenting signs and symptoms.1 The diversity of aetiologies and precipitants of HF and their specific pathophysiologic mechanisms, may result in distinct clinical profiles requiring specific treatment approaches.
Pulmonary oedema (PO) is a common manifestation of AHF associated with a high-acuity presentation and significant haemodynamic abnormalities. PO is defined as alveolar or interstitial oedema verified by chest X-ray and/or with arterial oxygen saturation <90 % on room air accompanied by severe respiratory distress.2