Q. Cardiology, Echocardiography: What is mean by Mild inferior hypokinesis in echocardigram test?
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Mild inferior hypokinesis is a type of abnormality that can be detected on an echocardiogram, which is an imaging test used to assess the function and structure of the heart. During this test, sound waves produce a moving picture that helps doctors detect changes in the size and shape of different parts of the heart.
Mild inferior hypokinesis indicates that there has been a decrease in normal contractile performance within one specific area (or segment) of the left ventricle -- specifically, at its lower end or apex. This can be due to abnormal thickening of muscle in this section or other pathological processes such as coronary artery disease. Typically, mild hypokinesis means there has been about 10-15% loss of contractile strength for this segment compared to other areas within your left ventricle.
Other signs and symptoms associated with mild inferior hypokinesis may include shortness of breath during physical activity as well as fatigue due to inadequate blood circulation through your body. Additionally, angina (chest pain) may occur when decreased oxygenated blood supply reaches your heart tissue compared to normal levels. If left untreated over long periods of time, more serious conditions such as congestive heart failure can develop due to inefficient pumping by weakened muscles in your left ventricle wall's lower portion -- causing increased pressure buildup throughout different chambers in your cardiac system leading towards systemic edema formation; ultimately resulting in life-threatening consequences if not promptly addressed via appropriate medical care and surveillance upon detection by routine echocardigram screenings/exams!